Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club

Bulletins

This page was last updated on: June 21, 2009

           The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBERS 13 & 14

December 24 & 31, 2008

PROGRAM:

There were no programs scheduled for the meetings on Christmas Eve and New Years

Eve.  Both mornings we had a continental breakfast.

TOP TEN MBOC EVENTS FOR 2008:

In no particular order, following are the top 10 events that the editing staff

felt was significant for the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club during 2008.  If

you have others, or you would like to rank them, please send me an email at

brucenb@kansas.net.

─ Receipt of 1/3 interest in the sale of the BB/BS & Boys & Girls Club buildings

due to downtown redevelopment.

Hopes are to use these proceeds to build our own multi-purpose building at

Optimist Park.  Main use will be for Softball and Wrestling.

─ The passing of long time member and Club founder Bob Sloan.

Bob will be missed by many, especially the ones that knew him well.

─ 2 Wrestling Tournament concessions.

We normally do the concessions for the January Optimist Kids Wrestling

tournament held in January.  We also did a second one held in March.

─ Youngsters Steve Boeckman & Shelley Aistrup assuming leadership positions in

the Club.

While not exactly youngsters, Steve and Shelley bring a little "youth" to our

somewhat aging Club.

─ The Tree Lot move from Longs Park to Optimist Park.

With the Tree Lot being at Longs Park for somewhere around 40 years, it was a

big gamble to move it to Optimist Park.  Many people pitched in to make the move

successful (I think).

─ The Optimist Park Flood & ½.

While not as devastating as the 2 floods in 2007. There was 1 flood that came

over the 4 foot field fences and a second one that barely reached the Brummett

infield backstop.

─ Jim Morrison's new art project for youth, "Early Expressions".

A lot of work by Jim and a lot of interest by USD 383  students.  The finale is

in February, 2009

─ The June Tornado.

We were spared major damage but had a lot of debris to cleanup.  2 old trailers

were destroyed. 

─ Aftermath of the December 2007 ice storm.

A lot of trees and tree limbs to cut up giving plenty of firewood for the Tree

Lot.  Unfortunately, the "new" Tree Lot doesn't have a wood burning fireplace!

─ Proposed development of new  (drier) softball fields at Optimist Park

Tom Bennett has put in a tremendous amount of work in developing plans to build

new and drier softball fields that won't flood every year.  Steve Boeckman was

also very instrumental in getting 3.5 acres adjacent to Optimist Park donated to

the Park.

GUESTS :

None each week. 

TREE LOT:

Teardown is proceeding at the Tree Lot.  It wouldn't be bad but those Optimist

Park people are real difficult to work with!

OTHER PEOPLE YOU OUGHT TO THANK:

It needs to be noticed to the club that on Friday, December 19, at Bergman

Elementary, Don Morgan did a good job of recognizing the 2 YOM recipients who

did not show on Dec. 3.  Roger Brannan helped by handing out the certificates &

gift baskets.  The occasion was the Christmas sing with all of the students &

teachers present along with many parents.  So the kids finally got recognition

in front of many people. 

FUNDRAISERS:

Wrestling Tournament Concessions I on Saturday, January 17, 2009. 

Wrestling Tournament Concessions II on Saturday, March 21, 2009.

The First Annual Spaghetti Dinner will be on Saturday, March 28, 2009.

FRANK'S GAME:

Howard Erickson was the winner including the Ace at the December 17 meeting. Tom

Bennett was this week's winner.

DECEMBER  BIRTHDAYS:

  Dec  8  - John Devore

  Dec 12  - Tom Holder

           Bob Pulford

  Dec 13  - Rod Olsen

  Dec 23  - Brent Benkelman

  Dec 31  - Jim Franke

JANUARY  BIRTHDAYS:

  Jan 12  - Jayson Kaus

  Jan 13  - Dave Dreiling

  Jan 23  - Jack Carlson

If you have a January birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

           The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 12

December 17, 2008

PROGRAM:

Gene Klingler talked and presented a video about Philmont Scout Ranch in

Cimarron, New Mexico.  Gene has been going since 1961, and has missed only two

summers in all that time.  Philmont has access to 400,000 acres of wilderness

for high adventure in the Sangre de Cristo mountains.  Over 25,000 scouts take

advantage of this opportunity each summer.  Philmont's camping season is from

early June to late August.  Scouts are organized into crews of 7-12, including

at least two adult leaders for 10-day hikes.  Scouts and volunteers must be at

least 14 years old by January 1 of the year they are attending.  In addition to

backcountry camping, staffed camps offer horseback riding, burro packing, rock

climbing, archaeology, and more.  Philmont also serves as the Boy Scout National

Volunteer Training Center.

GUESTS:

None. 

TREE LOT:

Jim Franke reported profits as of Wednesday morning exceeded expectations by

over $2,000 and we still had 86 trees left to sell!  Jim and Bruce received a

standing and extended ovation.  No news yet when the Tree Lot will close for the

year.

OTHER PEOPLE YOU OUGHT TO THANK:

The past two Tuesdays, Jim Morrison led a group of Optimist (and other)

volunteers in judging student art work for "Early Expressions", a program

through the Beach Museum to engage local school children in art.  Over 500

pieces were submitted, and 100 (50 from the elementary grades and 50 from the

middle and high schools) will be displayed for sale at the Beach on Feb. 6.

Money from the sale will go to the USD 383 Foundation. 

Gene Klingler, Almaz Rufael and Santa Wurst for their efforts in bringing

together and pulling off the Family Christmas Breakfast.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

The next two December meetings, on the 24th and 31st, will be continental

breakfast only and no programs.  Just come for the fellowship.

On Wednesday, Feb. 4, about 3-4 volunteers will be needed to set up the Early

Expression exhibit at the Beach Museum, and 6-8 volunteers are needed from

6:30-8:30 on Friday, Feb. 6, to host the reception.

FUNDRAISERS:

Brent Benkelman auctioned off five $25 gift certificates to Harry's and got $50

each.  The money will go to our Youth Fund.

We need volunteers for two Wrestling Tournaments on 17 January and 21 March.

Please contact Jim Franke if you will be able to help, especially the one in

January.

The First Annual Spaghetti Dinner will be 28 March.

SWITCHEROO

Almaz Rufael traded tickets with Steve Galitzer whereupon her (now his) number

was called, so Steve drew but pulled the Three.  Steve won back his dollar and

will get a free breakfast and the pleasure of greeting next week.  

DECEMBER  BIRTHDAYS:

  Dec  8  - John Devore

  Dec 12  - Tom Holder

           Bob Pulford

  Dec 13  - Rod Olsen

  Dec 23  - Brent Benkelman

  Dec 31  - Jim Franke

If you have a December birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

          The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 11

December 10, 2008

PROGRAM:

This week's meeting was the Annual Christmas Breakfast held at our normal

meeting place, the Holiday Inn Express.  Thanks to Gene Klingler for a wonderful

job of organizing once again.  The Manhattan High Pops Choir performed for us

after breakfast.  Santa (GW) showed up after being announced by President Cliff

Spaeth and handed out a bag of goodies to the young kids in attendance.  The

goodies were put together by Almaz Rufael.

GUESTS :

None. 

TREE LOT:

The Tree Lot broke even on Sunday, December 7.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

Jim Morrison's "Early Expressions" got started on Tuesday, December 9 with the

initial judging of over 500 pieces of artwork at First Presbyterian Church.

Optimist volunteers helping with setting up the artwork for judging included:

Jerry Banaka    Bruce Bidwell Frank Connizzo

Howard Erickson    Mark Healy Oscar Larmer

Jim Morrison    Clyde Scott Cliff Spaeth

Judging the artwork were volunteer judges:

Sue Atchison    Maurice Berggren Karen Schmidt

Mary Hemphill (John Machins daughter)         Ronna Tyson

President Cliff Spaeth announced the December Board Meeting to be held on

Tuesday, December 16 at First Presbyterian Church

DECEMBER  BIRTHDAYS:

  Dec  8  - John Devore

  Dec 12  - Tom Holder

           Bob Pulford

  Dec 13  - Rod Olsen

  Dec 23  - Brent Benkelman

  Dec 31  - Jim Franke

If you have a December birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

 

        The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 10

December 3, 2008

PROGRAM:

Gene Klingler introduced Men of A Chord, a barbershop quartet including our own

Ken Lyle, baritone Steve Fisher (KSU 4-H Extension, retired), bass Father Tom

Miles (rector of St. Paul's Episcopal Church), and tenor John Desper (KSU

research chemist).  They are part of the Little Apple Chorus.  They sang a few

songs to entertain us, ranging from doo-wop to gospel, and earned a standing

ovation.  Nice ties, too.

GUESTS :

None. 

TREE LOT:

Jim Franke reported a good opening week.  He reminded everyone to show up for

their shifts, and asked for a little more help on Saturday afternoon.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

Gene Klingler announced that NEXT WEEK is the annual Family Christmas Breakfast

at the Holiday Inn.  Kids under 12 are free, others $10 each.

Jim Morrison is leading the Optimist participation in "Early Expressions" at the

Beach Museum, a program to engage children in art.  Jim is still looking for

volunteers to help on several dates.  On Dec. 9 and 16 (both Tuesdays) helpers

will sort and judge the artwork at First Presbyterian Church - about 6-8 the

first date and 3-4 the second.  Then on Wednesday, Feb. 4, about 3-4 are needed

to set up at the Beach Museum.  Finally, 6-8 volunteers are needed from

6:30-8:30 on Friday, Feb. 6, to host the reception. 

PRESIDENTS' DAY WAS EARLY:

Current President Cliff Spaeth won the right to draw last week but forgot to

bring the cards, so he drew, but pulled the Jack.  And that's what he got.

Immediate Past-President Frank Connizzo held this week's winning ticket, but

drew the Seven.  Still he won back his dollar and got a free breakfast and the

pleasure of greeting next week.  

DECEMBER  BIRTHDAYS:

  Dec  8  - John Devore

  Dec 12  - Tom Holder

           Bob Pulford

  Dec 13  - Rod Olsen

  Dec 23  - Brent Benkelman

  Dec 31  - Jim Franke

If you have a December birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

YOUTH OF THE MONTH:

Our Youth of the Month Award for December goes to Madian Cantu, an 11-year-old

sixth grader at Bergman Elementary School.  Madian is the daughter of Arturo

Cantu and Alejandra Encarnacion.  Alejandra was able to join us along with

Bergman principal Lori Martin, ESL teacher Emily Dossett, and nominating teacher

Stacy Aschenbrenner.  We also want to welcome and give a special thank you to

Kathleen Bechtel who has helped us communicate with Señora Encarnacion.  Madian

transferred to Bergman this year from Lee Elementary School as Bergman has

evolved into an English as a Second Language school.  Because of this they are

able to offer service to 75 ESL students who live in the neighborhood that could

previously not attend there, including Madian.  For the record, these 75

students represent 17 different languages!  Madian has earned the respect of

both her teachers and her classmates.  In her nominating statement Mrs.

Aschenbrenner wrote, "Madian is a very hard working young lady.  She always has

a smile on her face.  Madian does a fabulous job balancing the responsibilities

she has at home of tending to her younger siblings and cousins as well as

completing the schoolwork she is assigned each night.  She keeps a positive

attitude.  She always tries and does not hesitate to ask when she has a

question.  Madian makes a great addition to our class."  She also pointed out

that Madian is a VERY talented artist who enjoys playing kickball at recess and

that she truly does enjoy taking care of younger children.  Mrs. Martin added

that Madian has shared with her that she enjoys cooking. The Optimist Club

thanks and commends Mrs. Aschenbrenner for her work with all of her students and

especially for making students like Madian feel at home and welcomed at Bergman.

We also thank Mrs. Martin who helps her staff provide an atmosphere that is

conducive for all young people to enjoy the opportunity to learn.  Finally, we

congratulate Madian for all of her hard work and encourage her to keep up the

effort.

 

         The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 09

November 26,  2008

Editing duties this week performed by Bruce Bidwell.

PROGRAM:

Jerry Banaka introduced Judy Padgett, Director of Toys for Manhattan.  This

program serves underprivileged children whose parents are not financially able

to purchase Christmas gifts for their children. Judy took over the directorship

of this program in 2002 from the late Sgt. Al Myers who started it about 40

years ago.

Over the years Toys for Manhattan has been housed in many different locations.

Most recently they include the old Westloop Laundromat, a quonset hut, a Steel &

Pipe building, the old Waters True Value Westloop location, and this year, the

city owned former National Guard Armory at 1709 Airport Rd.

Judy indicated that Toys for Manhattan relies on 10-12 volunteers including 1

woman and 1 man who have each been volunteering for more that 20 years.

Currently, Jerry Banaka,s wife, Betty, is a volunteer.

Toys for Manhattan has special projects for 3 organizations that allow them an

early opportunity to find gifts.  These organizations are the Job Corps, the

Emergency Shelter, and the Crisis Center.  Beyond this, the gift distribution

season is Saturdays, Dec 5th, 13th, and 20th from 9 am to 1 pm.

Besides the Airport Rd donation drop off location (Tue/Thu 5-8 pm thru Dec 18),

other daytime drop off locations are:

Riley County Police Department @1001 S. Seth Childs Rd

McCullough Development @ 210 N. 4th St

Manhattan Dental @ 1400 Beechwood Terrace

Time Out Corner @ 3003 Anderson Ave Suite 909 - Village Plaza.

GUESTS :

Denise Carlson was the guest of dad Jack Carlson. 

TREE LOT:

Jim Franke gave a run down on the past weeks events most of which centered on

the unloading of 775 trees.  He also mentioned the Manhattan Mercury advertising

put together by Mary Phelps. Clyde Scott received a much deserved round of

applause for all the signage work he has done.  Wednesday (today) is Tag &

Trailer where we unwrap and move the trees to the display racks.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

Gene Klingler announced that the annual Family Christmas Breakfast will at the

Holiday Inn on December 10.  Kids under 10 are free, for others $10 each.

Frank Connizzo recently became a great grandfather.  Congratulation Frank!

Dean Stramel, our science expert, suggested that we look to the southwest sky at

dusk the next several days.  Venus and Jupiter will be doing strange things.

Contact Dean for a more technical explanation.

Next week 3 Youths of the Month plus a program.  We will be starting early at

6:45 am.

A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE WEEKLY DRAWING

President Cliff Spaeth explained that he forgot the remaining 9 cards in the

current drawing.  It was decided that the drawing for the winning ticket would

be done anyway and the winner would draw for the Ace next week.  #444 was drawn.

After several minutes of no response from the group, President Spaeth realized

that it was his number.  We'll see what happens next week!

If you remember the rules, the person who draws the Ace gets ½ of the pot.  The

other ½ is now going to the OI Childhood Cancer program.

NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS:

  Nov  2 - Pat Wadick

  Nov  4 - Stan Watt

  Nov  8 - Jim Blanton

  Nov 11 - Brad Claussen

  Nov 12 - Doug Stigge

  Nov 14 - Doug Jardine

DECEMBER  BIRTHDAYS:

  Dec  8  - John Devore

  Dec 12  - Tom Holder

           Bob Pulford

  Dec 13  - Rod Olsen

  Dec 23  - Brent Benkelman

  Dec 31  - Jim Franke

If you have a December birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

 

          The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 08

November 19, 2008

PROGRAM:

Tom Bennett discussed plans for expansion at Optimist Park.  We were looking for

some way to mitigate problems with flooding which are likely to re-occur.

Through the efforts of Steve Boeckman we found an unused parcel of land to the

west of the parking lot which we were able to acquire by donation.  This allows

us to start on a phased project to build new fields above the flood line.  Phase

1 is construction of a new diamond, with lights, on the new land.  Phase 2 is a

new T-ball field to the southwest of the entry circle.  Phase 3 is construction

of a new building on the old T-ball field; the building will house wrestling as

well as pitching and batting practice cages, a project lead by Tom Hintz.  Phase

4 will raise Brummett Field 14 feet.  There will be several new parking areas

built as well.  The hope is that Phases 1 and 2 will be completed by the end of

next summer to allow play in the spring of 2010.  Phases 3 and 4 will depend on

the availability of materials and funds. 

GUESTS:

None. 

TREE LOT:

Jim Franke called to our attention the sign-up sheets on every table.   Please

sign up for a shift.  In addition to regular shifts, the Tree Lot will open the

day after Thanksgiving and we need volunteers for 9 AM - noon and noon - 4 PM.

Tag 'n no Drag on Wednesday, November 26 (the day before Thanksgiving) at 10 AM.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

Gene Klingler announced that the annual Family Christmas Breakfast will at the

Holiday Inn on December 10.  Kids under 12 are free, for others $10 each.

Jim Morrison is leading the Optimist participation in "Early Expressions" at the

Beach Museum, a program to engage children in art.  Jim is looking for

volunteers to help on several dates.  On Dec. 9 and 16 (both Tuesdays) helpers

will sort and judge the artwork at First Presbyterian Church - about 6-8 the

first date and 3-4 the second.  Then on Wednesday, Feb. 4, about 3-4 are needed

to set up at the Beach Museum.  Finally, 6-8 volunteers are needed from

6:30-8:30 on Friday, Feb. 6, to host the reception. 

DANDY, DON

Don Morgan had a winner, but he couldn't pull the ace.  Still he won back his

dollar and got a free breakfast and the pleasure of greeting next week. 

NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS:

  Nov  2 - Pat Wadick

  Nov  4 - Stan Watt

  Nov  8 - Jim Blanton

  Nov 11 - Brad Claussen

  Nov 12 - Doug Stigge

  Nov 14 - Doug Jardine

If you have a November birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

YOUTHS OF THE MONTH

Our first honoree was Macy Bieker, who is 8 years old and in 3rd grade at Amanda

Arnold Elementary School.  Macy was joined by her parents Dallas and Brian

Bicker and her 10-year old sister Lexi who is in the 5th grade at Amanda Arnold.

Nominating Teacher Meggan Eilert and Principal Larry Liotta joined them.

Teacher Meggan Eilert has a fine nominating statement for Macy:  "Macy is a

delightful student.  She is a high academic achiever, has many friends, and

works well in groups.  Macy is polite, humble and is an excellent model of what

is expected from a student following the 6 Pillars of Character. Macy went

through a great deal this summer during the tornado.  Her house was hit and

severely damaged.  She has bounced back and persevered..."  Macy has a wide

variety of interests and activities. She takes piano lessons and tennis lessons

and really loves tennis.  She is a member of the Faith E. Church and

participates in the youth programs.  At her church she has participated in the

"Operation Christmas Child" project, in which she prepares "shoebox gifts"

containing school related materials for children around the world. Macy is

described as an avid reader.  She enjoys the Little House on the Prairie series.

When the William Allen White book award list comes out, she tries to read many

books on that list.  In fact this has led her to consider becoming a school

librarian in the future. Her mother Dallas is president of the Amanda Arnold

PTA, so Macy helps her mother with the various PTA activities. Macy enjoys

playing activities such as board games with her sister Lexi.  She also enjoys

playing with her loyal dog, Molly. She likes to ride her scooter and go biking,

as well as going on family boating trips on the lake.  Yes, she likes to fish

and can bait her hook. When the family travels, Macy's two favorite places are

Colorado and Disney World. For hobbies, besides reading, she collects American

Doll items. She enjoys drawing.  At school she is particularly fond of the

Partner City Project in which the school partners with a Czech school.  This

enables them to learn new language and to get acquainted with Czech students. We

Optimists salute Macy's positive attitude and desire to help others.

Our second Youth of the Month recipient was 12 year old Lauren Carlson a 6th

grader at Amanda Arnold.  She was accompanied by parents Jill and Eric Carlson

and brothers Jacob, an 8th grader at Anthony Middle School, and Lee, who is a

freshman at MHS.  Lauren two older sisters couldn't join her but were there in

spirit: Monica, a student at SE Missouri State and Carissa, a student at

Oklahoma City University.  To round out the team were Nominating Teacher John

Wolters and Principal Larry Liotta.  John Wolters offered this high praise for

Lauren: "Lauren is off to a fantastic start in her 6th grade year at Amanda

Arnold.  To list Lauren's accomplishments at school will be easy to do, but

first it is important to make you aware of one of her out of school

accomplishments.  Lauren is the youngest in her family and this year she is

experiencing the reality of a sister she is very close to moving away to college

seven hours away.  Despite this major family transition, Lauren is flourishing

in her last year as a Panda! Lauren is very aware of what her assignments are

from the three different teachers she sees each day, and is very proficient in

getting these done in a punctual manner.  In class she is very interested in the

discussion and teaching that is taking place, asking pertinent questions on a

regular basis.  She really wants to understand the information that is being

taught, and will stick with it until she has grasped it to her liking.  On

Tuesdays, you can find her in our library during the noon hour, giving up her

recess time and instead, serving as a Library Aide.  She is very easy to get

along with, as I see her talking with 6th graders from each of the three

classes.  When she can explain information to a classmate, she is willing to do

so with great eagerness.  She is also a great 'big buddy' to a Kindergarten

student for 30 minutes each week.  There are a lot of smiles shared and

encouraging words heard as Lauren works with her buddy. Lauren has a full

schedule away from Amanda Arnold as well.  Primarily, she can be found at a

local gym several hours a week perfecting her gymnastics skills.  The discipline

needed to succeed as a gymnast is obviously used to make her the best student

she can be in the classroom.."  Lauren has a wide ranging interest in a variety

of sports.  She has been competing in gymnastics for 6 years. She belongs to the

CATTS Gymnastics Club in Wamego and competes in Level 5 which means she

practices 9 to 10 hours per week.  She competes in some challenging events -

floor, balance beam, uneven parallel bars, and vault.  In the Parks & Rec.

programs she has participated for 2 years in volleyball on the Dynomite Team;

for 4 or 5 years as outfielder and 2nd base in softball; and for 3 years playing

forward in basketball.  Athletics are not Lauren's only interests.  She is in

her 2nd year playing the flute inherited from her older sister. She loves to

read, especially about the subject of animals.  She also plays the computer

game, "Animal Doctor," in which the player must take care of animals.  This

leads to a possible future calling, becoming a veterinarian.  She is getting

real life experience by taking care of her Cocker Spaniel named Aspen and two

guinea pigs named Chip and Button. She collects dolls and their paraphernalia

from American Girl and reads the books.  Lauren serves as an acolyte for the

Episcopal Church and helps to babysit in the church nursery once a month. Lauren

is a full participant in life.  We Optimists are impressed with her wide variety

of interests and her willingness to help as a good citizen of her school and

community.  We wish her well in your future activities.

          The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 07

November 12,  2008

PROGRAM:

Jerry Banaka introduced Dr. Eric Higgins, Head of the Department of Finance in

the KSU Business School to give his perspective on the current economic

meltdown.  Dr. Higgins is a Manhattan High and K-State grad.  He went on to

receive his Ph.D. from Florida State and taught at Drexel University before

returning to his hometown.  His specialty is corporate finance and financial

institutions, which gives him a ringside seat.  He explained that the problem we

are in was caused by a perhaps unique confluence of factors, the so-called

"perfect storm".   For several years we had seen historically low interest rates

and increasing real estate value, so banks were making loans with the

expectation that their investments would increase in value.  When the real

estate market collapsed, it dragged down bank loans, manufacturing, and consumer

credit.  In response, the Feds moved to increase the money supply, then cut

interest rates, but money still is stagnant because there is still extreme

uncertainty.  In response to questions, he described some ideas to get financial

markets working again.

GUESTS :

None. 

TREE LOT:

Jim Franke called to our attention the sign-up sheets on every table.   Please

sign up for a shift.  In addition to regular shifts, the Tree Lot will open the

day after Thanksgiving and we need volunteers for 9 AM - noon and noon - 4 PM.

Tag 'n Drag no longer involves dragging, but we still need help putting the

trees out on Wednesday, November 26 (the day before Thanksgiving) at 10 AM.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

There will be a Board Meeting next Tuesday, November 18, at 7 PM in the basement

of the 1st Presbyterian Church.

The annual Family Christmas Breakfast will at the Holiday Inn on December 10. 

Next week we will recognize two Youths of the Month from Amanda Arnold.

Brent Benkelman knew he had a winner, but couldn't pull better than a deuce from

the pack.  Still he won back his dollar and got a free breakfast too, and the

pleasure of greeting next week. 

NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS:

  Nov  2 - Pat Wadick

  Nov  4 - Stan Watt

  Nov  8 - Jim Blanton

  Nov 11 - Brad Claussen

  Nov 12 - Doug Stigge

  Nov 14 - Doug Jardine

If you have a November birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

        The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 06

November 5, 2008

Visiting Editor Tom Bennett is substituting for absent Editor David Margolies.

PROGRAM:

Jerry Banaka introduced our own tree lot leaders Jim Franke and Bruce Bidwell.

If any of our members have been out of the country for the past year, they will

be surprised to learn that we are selling trees this year at Optimist Park

instead of Longs Park.  Bruce and his able assistant Dwardt Farguardt included

wonderful information in the November 5 edition of the Tree Lot Herald about

this relocated fundraiser.

Jim Franke provided a power point video showing the exterior tree layout and the

interior sales layout in the new building.  Decorations and holiday lights are

being planned.

Of course advertising and directional signing is of great importance.  Jim

explained our plan.

1.  A letter will be sent to over 500 people who purchased trees last year,

telling them that we've moved and why.  Thinking ahead, they got everyone's

address who bought trees.

2. A sign directing customers to Optimist Park will be placed at Longs Park.

3.  Posters have been prepared and will be placed around town.

4.  The south side of the large billboard on Seth Child Road south of Mead

Lumber will display our information.

5.  Little Apple Toyota will allow us to place signs on their property at Seth

Child and Amherst and we can use their permanent sign that was the old kopps

furniture sign.

6.  Signs will be placed along Plymate Drive leading to the Park.

We will be selling three types of firs and two types of pines:

frazier firs

noble firs

nordman firs

scotch pines

white pines

Jim stressed that we will need to carry the trees.  Dragging them across the

gravel parking lot is not recommended.

Fencing will be placed across the entrance and lighting will be used for

Security.  A Porta Potty will be brought in because the water is shutoff in

November in our unheated restrooms at the Park.

The setup for the tree sales at the park will be this Saturday morning, November

11.  Everyone who can help is encouraged to.

GUESTS :

Mark Knackendoffel brought his son Paul, a sophomore at MHS. 

ANNOUNCEMENTS::

Bruce Bidwell laminated copies of the Youth of the Month article published in

the Mercury and presented them to Roger Brannan

GAMBLING:

Bob Pulford's number was drawn, but he was unable to draw the elusive Ace from

President Cliff's deck of cards.  Bob will get to spend the gold dollar and

enjoy free breakfast next week after he greets everyone.

NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS:

  Nov  2 - Pat Wadick

  Nov  4 - Stan Watt

  Nov  8 - Jim Blanton

  Nov 11 - Brad Claussen

  Nov 12 - Doug Stigge

  Nov 14 - Doug Jardine

If you have a November birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

           The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 05

October 29,  2008

For a limited time! Optimist Dues only $120! Offer expires soon! 

PROGRAM:

We honored three Youths of the Month from Woodrow Wilson Elementary School this

morning.  Before introducing the honorees, Roger reminded us that we owe special

thanks to Oscar Larmer, who hand-letters the certificates we give to the kids,

and to Steve McKinzie, who provides the gift baskets they receive. 

The first student Roger Brannan introduced was second grader Kristan Richard.

Seven year old Kristan was joined by her parents Cheryl and Philip Thompson,

nominating teacher Jessica Major, Resource Room teacher Julie Heidrick, and

principal Eric Koppes.  Teacher Jessica Major said in her nominating statement:

"Kristan is a great child, friend, and student.  I am always delighted to see

her smile and get a hug from her first thing in the morning.  While in the

classroom, Kristan offers to share materials.  She is also caring, and will take

extra steps to ensure happiness in others.  Kristan is always willing to help

out others; not only in the classroom, but also in the school building.  From

picking up trash in and around the building, to putting up her classmate's

chair, she is a good citizen.  Kristan's positive attitude and respect is

appreciated by others and reflects in her class work.  We loved her confidence

and motivation to read to us during snack time!  I admire Kristan's

responsibility as well.  Having her assignments and home-work completed and

turned in daily is something to be proud of!  Kristan often reminds me of things

that she needs to complete!  I am very proud of Kristan! 

She is a model student that others should look up to!"  Kristan has the great

ability to get started on work in the mornings.  Her teachers compliment her

neat handwriting.  Kristan wants to help anybody at home or at school.  For

example if a student forgets her/his jacket, Kristan will bring it, and she

likes to read to the neighbor's children.  Ouitside school Kristan is quite an

active young lady.  She is active in Girl Scout Brownie Troop #3435.  As part of

that troop she has sold cookies at the KSU Women's Basketball games. Kristan

participates in competitive bowling as a member of the Kansas USBC youth bowling

leagues; she has won several trophies and looks forward to Saturday morning

bowling sessions. She collects marbles and has a collection of at least 60

marbles.  She is a member of a choir at the Presbyterian Church and especially

especially enjoys the "jam sessions" called "Jesus and Me."  She volunteers to

clean up after the meetings.  She enjoys art at school and loves to draw

pictures and to give them away to people.  Kristan clearly exemplifies almost

all of the elements of our Optimist Creed.  Her willingness to help others makes

her school a much better place. 

Next up was 5th grader (and Kristan's brother) Matthew Richard.  In attendance

in addition to his parents and sister were nominating teacher Kent Griffin and

Principal Eric Koppe.  Teacher Kent Griffin has a great appreciation for Matthew

as shown in this nominating statement: "Matthew Richard has been in my classroom

for fifth grade year.  I have been greatly impressed by this young man.  Matthew

is doing an outstanding job in all aspects of his education. He is proactive in

his own education.  He completes his work on time, and on the only day he has

been absent due to a personal and family tragedy, Matthew arranged to get the

work he was going to miss.  For a fifth grade boy, this is very encouraging.

When new concepts are introduced Matthew gets a look of determination on his

face and gets down to work, and will not stop until he has mastered it, and his

sense of humor is a joy to experience."  Matthew is a young man on the go.  He

has a variety of activities.  He is a member of Cub Scouts Webelos program with

Pack 273 and has been camping several times & has faced the challenge of getting

wet and cold.  He has participated in the Pinewood Derby competition, winning

2nd & 3rd in some past contests.  Mathew continues his competition by being a

member of the Kansas USBC youth bowling leagues on Saturday mornings.  He has

won a couple of team & individual trophies.  He received a medal for most

improved average.  He's very interested in bowling, and we hope he continues in

the sport when he reaches high school.  He collects rocks from different states.

He likes to play video games and also enjoys the Wii programs.  He likes to

draw and make paper airplanes, experimenting with his own styles.  On his music

side he plays the trumpet in the school band.  He also participates in a choir

at the Presbyterian Church.  In his future he wants to be a bomber pilot.

Matthew, is to be congratulated for participating in many activities and we wish

him well in making the best of his school experience.  We admire his sense of

responsibility.

Finally, Don Morgan introduced Brady Wisdom, a 12-year-old sixth grader.  Brady

comes from a loving family and was accompanied by his parents Jared and Heather

Wisdom, but his 6-month-old brother Tyler was unable to come.  Brady's

nominating teacher, Vickie Welch, also joined him to recognize his

accomplishments this year, as did principal Eric Koppes and Resource teachers

Julie Heidrick and Laurel Moser.  Ms. Welch pointed out in her nomination of

Brady as Youth of the Month that he was chosen for a variety of reasons.  She

wrote that Brady is "extremely intelligent."  This is demonstrated through his

schoolwork as well as his ability to communicate across generation lines.  She

pointed out that he is able to have meaningful and thoughtful conversations with

his peers and adults in the building.  Partly due to his great sense of humor

Brady has been able to develop many wonderful friendships.  He demonstrates a

positive attitude in the classroom and helps to create an environment where

others are motivated to strive to do their best.  Brady truly enjoys todraw.

Both his father and Ms. Welch commented that this ability ranks as one of his

strongest attributes.  Brady uses his creative talent to produce some amazing

artwork and to create wonderful class projects for presentations.  Ms. Welch

also pointed out that Brady is a hard worker yet maintains a relaxed nature that

helps him look at things differently than many of his classmates.  Over the past

year he has acquired decision-making skills that have made him a success in the

classroom and that will serve his well in his future life.  Ms Welch concluded

that she believes Brady will continue to be successful in life and that he will

be able to attain any goals he sets for himself.  Outside of class Brady enjoys

video and on-line gaming.  He has recently embarked upon a path that will lead

him to many goals in the future.  He recently joined the Boy Scouts and although

he has many steps to take along this path I am certain that he will be able to

face the challenge and rise as high in the ranks of scouting as he strives to

achieve. 

The Optimist Club would like to thank all the nominating teachers for helping us

recognize these inspirational and helping students, and we thank all the

teachers, staff and Principal Koppes for providing an atmosphere at Woodrow

Wilson were students are encouraged to learn and develop the characteristic that

will serve the well later in life.

GUESTS :

None. 

TREE LOT?!!!

Jim Franke called to our attention the sign-up sheets on every table and

encouraged us to pick a shift before all the best ones were gone. We need

volunteers for Tree Lot set up on Saturday, November 8.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

Bruce McMillan is looking for one more volunteer to organize programs next July.

FYI, July has 5 Wednesdays.

Gene Klingler is organizing the annual Family Christmas Breakfast.  It will be

held at the Holiday Inn on December 10.  More details to follow.

Jerry Banaka offers the following list of programs for November:

Nov. 5 - Tree Lot, with Bruce Bidwell and Jim Franke

Nov. 12 - Dr. Eric Higgins, Head, Finance Department, KSU Business School

Nov. 19 - Youths of the Month from Amanda Arnold School

Nov. 26 - TBA

SIX WILL GET YOU NOTHING:

John White eventually realized he held the winning ticket, but he drew to the

Six.  Still he won back his dollar and got a free breakfast too, and we have the

pleasure of his greeting next week. 

OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS:

  Oct  1 - President Cliff Spaeth

  Oct  6 - Ron Tacha

  Oct  7 - Steve McKinzie

  Oct 11 - Bruce McMillan

    Clyde Scott

  Oct 22 - John Kellstrom

  Don Fisher

  Oct 26 - Wm T. Moore

      The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 04

October 22,  2008

Dues Are Due!  A bargain at $120.  Please get your payment to Clyde Scott.

PROGRAM:

Bruce McMillan, continuing on the United Way theme, introduced Capt. Robert

Buttrey from the Salvation Army, and Joyce Glasscock from the Boys' and Girls'

Club of Manhattan.  Capt. Buttrey spoke first.  He explained that the Salvation

Army was started in England in 1865 by a Methodist minister to reach those

people forgotten or outcast by society.  His philosophy was that people who are

hungry or homeless or unhealthy are not open to receiving the gospel, so he

started a social outreach ministry.  Today, S.A. is active in over 114 countries

and provides disaster relief services as well as social services.  Locally,

United Way funds support non-religious S.A. programs.  These include utility and

rental assistance, prescription vouchers and gas vouchers for travel to work or

medical appointments, and a clothes closet that provides new clothing to kids.

Joyce took then took the podium.  She noted that the Boys' and Girls' Club was

started in Manhattan 15 years ago with help from our Optimist Club and thanked

us for our continued support for their program through the years.  The Optimist

Club will be recognized with a plaque in the new building, now going up at 5th

and Pierre, just a few blocks from the old site.  The new building, slated for

opening about January 1, will be 40% larger than the current space and will thus

be able to serve more kids.  In addition to the on-site drop-in and youth

development programs, they provide similar programs after-school at 5 local

schools.  All together, the Boys' and Girls' Club serves 550 kids each day.  In

the summer, they also offer all-day programs in the building and ½-day programs

at some schools.  United Way funds are important because they provide about 10%

of the operating funds for the Boys' and Girls' Club. 

GUESTS :

None. 

TREE LOT?!!!

Jim Franke  called to our attention the sign-up sheets on every table and

encouraged us to pick a shift before all the best ones were gone. We need

volunteers for Tree Lot set up on Saturday, November 8.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

Cliff Spaeth mentioned that the Board is establishing a Membership Committee to

start a new membership campaign.  Please contact Cliff if you are interested in

serving on this important committee. 

Gene Klingler is organizing the annual Family Christmas Breakfast.  It will be

held  at the Holiday Inn on December 10.  More details to follow.

Next week we will honor three Youths of the Month.

A GOOD START

Doug Jardine, won the right to draw and, with only four cards left, was able to

find the Ace.  In addition to his winnings, he gets the pleasure of greeting us

all next week. 

OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS:

  Oct  1 - President Cliff Spaeth

  Oct  6 - Ron Tacha

  Oct  7 - Steve McKinzie

  Oct 11 - Bruce McMillan

    Clyde Scott

  Oct 22 - John Kellstrom

  Don Fisher

  Oct 26 - Wm T. Moore

If you have an October birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

 

         The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 03

October 15,  2008

PROGRAM:

Bruce McMillan continued with his programs on United Way agencies by introducing

Lori Bishop from RSVP of the Flint Hills, Judy Davis from the Crisis Center

Inc., and Dianne Paukstalis, Executive Director of the United Way of Riley

County. Judy spoke first about the Crisis Center.  It was formed in 1979,

incorporated in 1981, and became a member of U/W in 1983. The Crisis Center

provides comprehensive services to victims of sexual assault and domestic

violence and prevents sexual and domestic violence through its intervention

education and training programs.  Approximately 1500 people per year are served

by the Crisis Center.  Lori was next in line. RSVP uses volunteers 55 years of

age and older in volunteer service to meet critical community needs. Their

latest statistics show about 440 volunteers logging in excess of 90,000 hours of

volunteer service.  Dianne was last and gave us a short history of the 64 year

old U/W organization.  In 1944, the Community Chest of Manhattan, Kansas Inc.

was founded. In 1958, the organization became the United Fund, and then changed

its name to United Way of Riley County in 1978.  She showed us a short video,

put together by KSU, about the 15 current U/W agencies and featuring RSVP.

Don't forget to support the United Way.

GUESTS :

None. 

BULLETIN #02 OFFICIAL EXPLANATION ( and other stuff):

If you think you misplaced Bulletin #02, be assured you didn't. Below is the

official explanation of why you didn't receive it:

The Bulletin Editor was supposed to be gone for Week #01.  However he showed up

for the Week #01 meeting with the explanation that he was really going to be

gone for Week #02.  Confusing!  The Backup to the Bulletin Editor didn't realize

that he was supposed to do the editing chores for Week #02, even though he was

present at the Week #02 meeting.  More confusing!  The Backup to the Backup of

the Bulletin Editor, seeing that the Backup to the Bulletin Editor was present

at the Week #02 meeting, thought that the editing chores were in good hands with

the Backup to the Bulletin Editor and did nothing. Thus there was no Editor

doing the editing chores.  Simple explanation but we're not done.

Now .. the rest of the explanation.  It is a well known FACT, as proven many

times by former Editor Dwight Nesmith, that Editors do not make mistakes.   With

no other logical explanation available, the failure for not having Bulletin #02

must fall with the NEW Administration.

Along with no Bulletin #02, Bulletin #01 had the birthdays of Clyde Scott and

Don Fisher switched.  Again, Editors don't make mistakes, thus this error must

also fall with the NEW Administration.

For this Bulletin #03, the Backup to the Backup of the Bulletin Editor was

notified by the Bulletin Editor well in advance of the Week #03 meeting that he

would not be in attendance and the Backup to the Backup of the Bulletin Editor

is responsible for editing this Bulletin.  The Backup to the Bulletin Editor had

no idea what was going on and is still probably confused!

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

Treasurer Clyde Scott reminds us about DAD - Dues Are Due.

You can re-up your membership at last year's price of $120 ($90 for Lifetime

members).  Make your check payable to Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club and

either bring it to the next meeting or mail it to:

  Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club    

  P.O. Box 623

  Manhattan, KS  66505-0623

Bruce McMillan is still encouraging people to volunteer to serve as Program

Chair for a month this coming Optimist year.   We need people to cover April,

and July-September 2009 (I think these are still the current needs).

Jim Franke reminded us that the Tree Lot is not far away.  He passed around

signup sheets for shifts, tree unloading, and setup day on November 8.

MEETINGS:

New President Cliff Spaeth announced the annual Budget Meeting was held on

October 9 at his house, 3409 Treesmill Circle.   The results will be shared and

discussed at the October 16 Board meeting (see below).

President Cliff Spaeth attended the District Meeting in Lawrence on Oct. 11.  He

indicated that our Club will be hosting this event on April 24-26, 2009.  Cliff

is looking for a committee and a chairperson to help with this event.

The first Board Meeting of the new administration will be Tuesday, Oct. 21.

FRANK'S GAME:

Don Morgan held the winning ticket.  His draw of the 3 of Spades decreased the

remaining card count to 4 for our eventual winner. Don was a winner though

because he got his $1 back and will enjoy a great breakfast along with greeting

us next week.  Cliff is keeping the cards to be used again at some later point.

OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS:

  Oct  1 - President Cliff Spaeth

  Oct  6 - Ron Tacha

  Oct  7 - Steve McKinzie

  Oct 11 - Bruce McMillan

    Clyde Scott

  Oct 22 - John Kellstrom

  Don Fisher

  Oct 26 - Wm T. Moore

If you have an October birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

          The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 01

October 1,  2008

Dues Are Due!  A bargain at $120.  Please get your payment to Clyde Scott.

PROGRAM:

Bruce McMillan introduced Jim Reed, Peter Paukstalis, and Karen Hummel who

represented "Our Community, Our Children", the citizens group that is supporting

the USD 383 bond issue.  Jim spoke about the reason the $97.5 million bond issue

is needed, Pete discussed citizen oversight of spending if the bond issue

passes, and Karen played the promotional video, which we can see online at

www.usd383bond.org.  Rebecca Margolies, daughter of Club member David Margolies,

and Club member Gene Klingler were prominently featured in the video.

GUESTS:

None. 

MINTY FRESH:

Cliff Spaeth presided over the first meeting of his new administration. 

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

Treasurer Clyde Scott reminded us about DAD - Dues Are Due.

You can re-up your membership at last year's price of $120 ($90 for Lifetime

members).  Make your check payable to Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club and

either bring it to the next meeting or mail it to:

  Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club    

  P.O. Box 623

  Manhattan, KS  66505-0623

Bruce McMillan is still encouraging people to volunteer to serve as program

chair for a month this coming Optimist year.   We need people to cover April,

and July-September 2009.

Nick Thilges reminded volunteers to show up to serve as crossing guards for

"Walk / Ride Bike To School Day" at Marlatt School on Friday October 3rd.

Volunteers will meet at Marlatt School at 8am to pickup vests and stop signs.    

The Little Apple Optimist Club Annual Chili Crawl will be held in Aggieville, 4

- 6:60 PM on Saturday, October 11.  The event is the Little Apple Club's big

fundraiser and generates funds to support youth programs.  Tickets are $10, and

that entitles the ticket holder to sample a bowl of chili at each of 14

restaurants. 

MEETINGS:

New President Cliff Spaeth announced the annual budget meeting will be at 7 PM,

October 9 at his house, 3409 Treesmill Circle. 

The District Meeting will be in Lawrence on Oct. 10-12.

The first Board Meeting of the new administration will be Tuesday, Oct. 21.

A GOOD START:

Steve Boeckman began his first day as 1st Vice-President in style, winning the

right to draw.  Unfortunately, he could only manage to find the Three of Clubs.

Still, he won a free breakfast and the pleasure of greeting us all next week. 

OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS:

  Oct  1 - President Cliff Spaeth

  Oct  6 - Ron Tacha

  Oct  7 - Steve McKinzie

  Oct 11 - Bruce McMillan

       Don Fisher

  Oct 22 - John Kellstrom

  Clyde Scott

  Oct 26 - Wm T. Moore

If you have an October birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

          The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 37

June 10, 2009

Your Publisher got a little forgetful which is why this is a little late!

PROGRAM:

Bruce McMillan, again standing in for Shelly Aistrup, introduced Mike Mecseri,

architect, owner of Timber and Stone Construction, and a member of the Board of

Directors of the Manhattan/Riley County Preservation Alliance.  Mike spoke as a

representative of the Preservation Alliance about the 2009 Historic Preservation

Building Awards.  The mission of the Preservation Alliance is to engage the

community in the active preservation of its historic resources by promoting

historic preservation in the community and surrounding area, enhancing economic

development through historic preservation, and educating the community as to the

cultural importance of historic preservation.  The Awards are their signature

event, recognizing commercial, private, and public historic preservation

efforts.  Within the commercial category PA made awards for adaptive use, which

is converting old commercial buildings to new commercial use (the old

Goetsch-Irvine building on 4th and Leavenworth and the new Trust Company

location at 8th and Poyntz), commercial enhancement (Ray's Apple Market on 6th

between Leavenworth and Humboldt), infill (several, including the Boys & Girls

Club on 4th and Pierre), interiors, maintenance and preservation (the Wareham

sign), and whole building restoration (Chef Café).  In the private category

awards were for additions, infill, interiors, maintenance and preservation, and

whole house restoration; there were several winners for most of these.  In the

public category awards were made for enhancement (stairs leading from N.

Delaware up to 1900 block of Leavenworth) and maintenance and preservation

(Bluemont School).  This year the Preservation Alliance made a special award

posthumously for Exemplary Service to Historic Preservation to Charles Bissey, a

structural engineer who was involved in preserving many older structures in

town.  As he spoke, Mike showed photos of all the award winning structures.

These should soon be available for viewing on the PA website at

www.preservemanhattan.org..

GUESTS:

Nope.

STUFF YOU SHOULD KNOW

Jim Morrison reported there have been 11 gifts or pledges to the fundraising

drive for Optimist Park development.

The Board will meet Wednesday morning, June 17th, after the breakfast meeting.

OPTIMIST PARK UPDATE:

Thanks to Jim Morrison's partner, Bernard Irvine, for reorganizing part of

parking lot between the 2 buildings with his skid loader.  Subsequent rains have

proved his work a success.

Steve Boeckman continues mowing the Brummett Field banks and other hand mowing

areas.  He's trying to get to his 9 day mowing schedule that worked for him last

year.

THE JIM DONE GONE

Frank called out Jim Franke's number, but Jim was not there!  Bruce Bidwell was

holding Jim's ticket and pulled the 3 of Clubs for him.  Jim might have done

better, but no do-overs.  So who gets to greet next week?  Come and see.

JUNE BIRTHDAYS:

June 11 - Frank Combs

June 16 - Bruce Bidwell

June 18 - Bruce Arnold

June 23 - David Horvath

June 25 - John Sullivan

If you have a June birthday and are not on the above list or there is an error,

please contact Bruce Bidwell.

         The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 36

June 3, 2009

PROGRAM:

Bruce McMillan stood in for Shelly Aistrup to introduce Joe Aistrup, Head of

Political Science at K-State, who offered an assessment on the impact of George

Tiller on Kansas politics and the possible impact of his murder on the future of

politics in the state.  Joe asserted that Tiller was a lightning rod and his

presence altered the nature of Kansas politics. The issue of abortion was used

by former Senator Bob Dole to gain his seat in 1974, but it really wasn't until

1989 that abortion started affecting internal state Republican politics.  Over

the next decade the party changed from moderate views to more extreme "us versus

them" mentality.  The Summer of Mercy in 1991, in which Operation Rescue drew

thousands to protest at Tiller's clinic, activated and organized the protestors

to use the Republican Party as their voice.  It gave rise to a grassroots effort

to control the party apparatus which was mostly successful by 1994.  This

changed the composition and tone of the State Legislature, which divided into

three camps: moderate Republicans, social conservative Republicans, and

Democrats.  It also brought the State Board of Education into play, which led to

the see-saw battle over the teaching of evolution.  Joe thinks Tiller's absence

may again lead to fundamental changes in state politics.

GUESTS:

Nope.

OPTIMIST PARK UPDATE:

Thanks to Jim Morrison for organizing the workday at Optimist Park on Saturday,

May 30.  Another well attended day with 4 MAJOR accomplishments:

o Forms were built and concrete poured for a sidewalk and garage door entrance

around the new garage.

o Fencing was put up along the north side of the T-Ball field to keep visitors

away from the Phase 1 construction site and equipment.

o Fencing was put up in the Plymate cul-de-sac to keep visitors out of the Phase

2 construction site.

o The tornado-damaged T-Ball field outfield fence was repaired.

Helping us out on this sunny and warm day was Jerry Banaka, Tom Bennett, Bruce

Bidwell, Steve Boeckman, Jim Franke, Fred Freeman, Tom Hintz, Mel Hunt, Ken

Lyle, Steve McKinzie, Jim Morrison, Mark & Marcella Parillo, Bob Pulford, and

Cliff Spaeth.

Master Gardener Marlene Franke once again has the Optimist Gardens whipped into

shape with the help of husband Jim.

Steve Boeckman continues to bring his mower and keep the Brummett Field banks

and other hand mowing areas under control.

Tom Bennett and the College Avenue Methodist Church donated a Craftsman riding

mower to the Park.  Thank you Tom!

The new Hustler ZTR 60" riding mower recently purchased has really reduced the

time Jim and I spend on mowing.

And speaking of mowing, 16 year old Zach Minton has recently started helping

with mowing on the weekends.  His older brother Cole helped us out for about 3

years during his younger days.

NOTHING UP HIS SLEEVE:

Frank called out Cliff Spaeth's number, but Cliff couldn't find the Ace in his

own deck.

JUNE BIRTHDAYS:

June 11 - Frank Combs

June 16 - Bruce Bidwell

June 18 - Bruce Arnold

June 23 - David Horvath

June 25 - John Sullivan

If you have a June birthday and are not on the above list or there is an error,

please contact Bruce Bidwell.

           The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 35

May 27, 2009

PROGRAM:

Mark Knackendoffel introduced our own Brad Claussen to talk about his life in

Building and Codes, where he has worked for the last 20 years.  Most recently,

he has been involved in looking at mandatory rental inspections.  This issue

first came up about the time he started in 1989, but it always faded away before

any action was taken.  However, 1-1/2 years ago that the city commission

directed city staff to come up with guidelines for an inspection program, and

last July the commission asked for a draft ordinance.  In September a citizens'

committee started working and, based on their work and public input, will

present 2 possible ordinances to the commission on June 16th.  Under either

ordinance, landlords would be required to have a rental license for each unit.

The less stringent proposal would require an annual fire inspection of all

rental units for a fee of $25 per unit per year, while the more stringent one

would require a complete health and safety inspection, including plumbing,

electrical, heating, etc., once every three years for a fee of $20 per unit per

year.  The later would satisfy the Ft. Riley off-post housing rules and would

eliminate the need for their inspection.  The ordinances are intended to be

revenue neutral, meaning the fees would just cover the cost of hiring 3-4 more

inspectors and conducting the inspections.  The second topic Brad discussed was

housing construction.  His office is still issuing permits for 3-5 new single

family homes per week.  These are mostly custom homes, often single-family

attached, or townhomes.  There is some commercial activity as well, with

construction proceeding on the Sonic and Walgreens out at the old county shop

site on Anderson, and more expected to the east off McCall Road.

NEW MEMBERS:

Retired Doc Byron Alexander visited as a guest of Gene Klingler and became our

newest member.  Please welcome Dr. Alexander when you see him.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW

Nick Thilges, The Tsar of Ts-Ball, requested that all sponsors please pay up.

HI HO, HI HO:

Jim Morrison announced a workday at Optimist Park on Saturday, May 30th, at 8

am.  Please bring shovels, rakes, and gloves.  Those with competence with and

ownership of chainsaws are requested to bring same. 

GREGORIAN CHANCE:

Greg Wurst won the draw but blew the pull.

MAY BIRTHDAYS:

 

May  4 - Jim Morrison

May 19 - Sara Bidwell

May 21 - Greg Wurst

May 26 - Blane Hope

May 31 - Dean Stramel

If you have a May birthday and are not on the above list or there is an error,

please contact Bruce Bidwell.

          The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 34

May 20, 2009

PROGRAM:

Mark Knackendoffel introduced Tim Schultz, Schultz Construction, who gave a

perspective on Manhattan housing as a builder, contractor and developer.  Tim

opined that KSU and Ft. Riley have kept Manhattan growing while other

communities in Kansas have been slowing or stagnant.  He attributes some growth

to the success of K-State athletics, and sees more coming with NBAF, but says

the big challenge will be land availability.  Ft. Riley and the airport

expansion are limiting westward development, while some eastward development

will be released by extension of sewers into Blue Township.  K-State owns prime

development land but is not selling; otherwise, little land is available for

development so most developers are looking at in-fill for now.  He discussed the

new commission study of special assessments and how this might affect future

development.

GUESTS

Retired Doc Byron Alexander visited as a guest of Gene Klingler.  Dr. Alexander

is filling out an application and by next week should be our newest member.

Janet Stramel is out of school for the summer and came with her husband Dean.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW

T-Ball is ready for the season.  Nick Thilges, T-Ball's answer to The Godfather

Part I, requested that all sponsors please pay up.

Jim Morrison announced a workday at Optimist Park on Saturday, May 30th, at 8

am.  Please bring shovels, rakes, and gloves.

HE ALWAYS WINS?

Mark Parillo, our newest member, won the right to draw but only found the 9.

Please welcome and congratulate Mark as he greets us next week.

MAY BIRTHDAYS:

 

May  4 - Jim Morrison

May 19 - Sara Bidwell

May 21 - Greg Wurst

May 26 - Blane Hope

May 31 - Dean Stramel

If you have a May birthday and are not on the above list or there is an error,

please contact Bruce Bidwell.

          The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 33

May 13, 2009

PROGRAM:

Mark Knackendoffel introduced Karen Davis, Director of Community Development for

the City of Manhattan.  Karen graduated from Emporia State, earned a Master's at

K-State, and has worked for the city for 30 years.  Her department addresses

long-range planning for growth and also more immediate issues such as zoning,

subdivision regulation, historic preservation and affordable housing.  Karen

showed slides illustrating Manhattan's population growth and development.  The

population has grown from 8,000 in 1920 to 46,000 in 2000 to an estimated 52,000

in 2007.  If the next census confirms this estimate, the city will have access

to a lot of new Federal funding.  The forecast is for 60,000 by 2020 and 70,000

by 2040 (yes, even with NBAF).  The physical growth of the city is set out in

the Comprehensive Plan which was adopted in 2003.  There is very limited room

for growth to the west and northwest, but in the near future the city will be

extending sewer and water service to Blue Township and the K-177 corridor.  This

infrastructure will support more residential development in those areas.  She

also see more development to the northeast.

GUESTS

None.

NEW MEMBER

Mark Parillo, an Associate Professor of History at K-State, was a guest of Bruce

Bidwell for the second time and became our newest member.  Mark has already

volunteered to umpire T-ball!

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW

T-Ball is gearing up for the season.  Nick Thilges, Prime Minister of T-Ball,

requested a few more volunteers to umpire.  If you would like to umpire, contact

Nick to get on board.

There will be a Board meeting next Tuesday night at 7 PM in the First

Presbyterian Church.

KINGS, EDITORS, AND PEOPLE WITH TAPEWORM

We (Your Editor) held the winning ticket and found the elusive Ace of Spades.

We will graciously greet you next week.

MAY BIRTHDAYS:

 

May  4 - Jim Morrison

May 19 - Sara Bidwell

May 21 - Greg Wurst

May 26 - Blane Hope

May 31 - Dean Stramel

If you have a May birthday and are not on the above list or there is an error,

please contact Bruce Bidwell.

         The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 32

May 6, 2009

PROGRAM:

Mark Knackendoffel introduced the theme for the month, which is Housing in

Manhattan, and the speakers to kick off that theme, our own Jim Blanton and

Regina Schroeder from the noon-time Optimist Club.  Jim spoke from the

perspective of a realtor (Blanton Realty) and Regina as a rental property

manager (Emerald Property Management).  With charts and figures Jim explained

that demand for homes has stayed flat but the average price of a house in

Manhattan has been going up slowly over the past several years.  He also noted

that although the wave of foreclosures nationally has not hit us yet, he is

beginning to see signs of an increase that may grow in the coming months.

Regina noted that if Jim couldn't sell it, she could rent it.  She noted we have

about 11,000 rental units in Manhattan (compared to only about 9,000 in Topeka),

covering a wide variety of prices and locations.  She expects to see an

additional 300 units per year for the next few years.  Increasingly she is

seeing what she call accidental renters - these are folks who can't sell without

losing money, so they choose to lose less money by renting.

GUESTS

Mark Parillo, an Associate Professor of History at K-State, was a guest of Bruce

Bidwell.  Mark is married to Marcella and has 4 daughters.

YOUTHS OF THE MONTH

Our first YOM from Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School was YURIAH JACKSON, a

sparkling 7 year old 1st grader.  Yuriah was accompanied by a large supporting

cast consisting of parents Mahogheny and Jesse Jackson, 4 year old brother Jesse

Jackson, Jr. 4 yrs. of age, and grandparents Julious Goodridge, Curtis Jackson,

and Walter Barr.  Yuriah was joined at the podium by teacher Karen Little and

Principal Mary Stamey.  Mrs. Little said in nominating Yuriah: "Yuriah Jackson

is a born leader.  She is quiet, well mannered, thoughtful, appreciative, kind

and caring.  She sounds like she's perfect, doesn't she?  She isn't, as we know

but what an asset she is to all around her.  She is the kind of person who will

be a friend when no one else wants to play with that person.  She is a person of

integrity.  Even if she makes a mistake, she readily admits it and is honestly

sorry. She loves school and loves to learn.  She helps others without being

asked.  She isn't bossy.  She just is perceptive and mature beyond her years as

to seeing a need and giving of herself to meet that need. She will make such a

wonderful member of our adult community as she continues to grow and learn here

in Manhattan.  I feel she deserves to be recognized for the person she is now

and the one she is becoming."  Yuriah is interested in athletic activities.  She

has had an interest in gymnastics.  She wants to play flag football and to be a

sprinter in track.  She is a very determined young lady and has the goal of

wanting to play football when she is older. She also has an interest in

bodybuilding and an interest in becoming a fitness trainer like her Grandfather

Walter.  She likes to collect Pokemon cards and to collect rocks. She loves to

read, especially biographies.  She has a special interest in famous people such

as Thomas Edison and Rosa Parks.  Mrs. Little further commented on Yuriah's

developing skill of writing nonfiction.  She is able to write good biographical

accounts of people about whom she has read.  We Optimists have a great respect

for Yuriah's desire to make the best of her education and her willingness to

help others.

Our second YOM was CASEY HOFFMAN, a fine fifth grader at Theodore Roosevelt

Elementary School.  Joining Casey were his proud parents Kevin and Ronna Hoffman

and his nominating teacher Joe Gelroth and Principal Mary Stamey.  Teacher

Michelle Calhoun also wrote a statement to support Casey's nomination; however,

she was unable to join us.  In their nominating statements both Mr. Gelroth and

Ms. Calhoun began by stating that Casey is "one of the nicest and most

considerate students" that each has the privilege of working with in class.  Mr.

Gelroth adds that his behavior is always acceptable and respectable.  They both

believe that Casey is a hard worker with a constant desire to succeed.  He

always tries to do his very best and willingly tackles problems with an endless

determination to overcome any hurdles that could cause other students to give

up.  Mr. Gelroth emphasized that Casey does not give up.  Casey's positive

attitude and persistence are inspiring to his teachers and classmates alike and

are truly admirable. Outside of school Casey is an active young man who enjoys

his many friends, challenges, and keeping busy at all times.  His current

activities include playing soccer and baseball on traveling teams.  This keeps

Casey and his family busy every weekend.  Another game that Casey likes to

participate in is front yard football with his older brothers.  Like in school,

Casey is not afraid to accept the challenge of keeping up with his siblings in

this friendly rivalry.  Outdoors is where he most likes to be no matter what the

conditions.  He enjoys winter activities as well as summer.  His indoor

activities include a science project that he is currently working on and build

with Legos.  Casey also enjoys playing Wii where he frequently defeats his

father in a variety of games.  In conclusion, we Optimists honor Casey as a hard

working student at Theodore Roosevelt, and the Optimist Club wishes to

congratulate him on being chosen as Youth of the Month and encourage him to keep

up the good work.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW

T-Ball is back.  Nick Thilges, T-Ball's answer to global warming, announced the

start of the season will be June 2nd.  Umpires are at the ready.  If you would

like to umpire, contact Nick to get on board.

LONG LIVE THE QUEEN

Frank Connizzo held the winning ticket but could only find the Queen!  The

elusive Ace awaits.

MAY BIRTHDAYS:

 

May 4  - Jim Morrison

May 19 - Sara Bidwell

May 21 - Greg Wurst

May 26 - Blane Hope

May 31 - Dean Stramel

If you have a May birthday and are not on the above list or there is an error,

please contact Bruce Bidwell.

          The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 31

April 29, 2009

PROGRAM:

Becky Klingler introduced Mike Mattson from Farm Bureau to speak about some of

the PR challenges faced by Kansas farmers and ranchers in an increasingly urban

population.  Mike grew up with one foot in agriculture and one foot in urban

Kansas.  He was Press Secretary for Gov. Graves, served as Assistant Kansas

Secretary of Agriculture, and has been with Farm Bureau for 10 years.  Mike has

a deep appreciation for the importance of agriculture to the Kansas spirit and

attitude, and worries about what will happen to it as fewer Kansans follow or

understand that way of life.  Agriculture has been in transition demographically

and economically for many years, but only recently has the urban/suburban

population exceeded the rural population.  This trend is continuing, and

perceptions about agriculture and livestock are less grounded in experience and

more susceptible to advertising from groups who are not friendly to farming and

ranching.  Kansas Farm Bureau is trying to educate the public and pushback by

promoting information about the families who farm and ranch, with the theme

"Care and Respect Practiced Daily."  In addition to radio and TV spots, KFB

produced a ½ hour documentary about care of livestock.  The documentary shows

farmers and ranchers speaking with passion about what they do and their way of

life.  It has been broadcast on PBS.  For more information about this

documentary Mike suggested we visit www.KFB.org.

GUESTS

Tom Bennett introduced Sam Johnson for the second visit.  We hope Sam will be

back soon as a new member.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW

President Cliff Spaeth was recognized as the Zone Optimist of the Quarter.

The Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club was chartered on April 22, 1959, which

makes us 50 years old!  We received a special certificate from OI to honor that

milestone as we start our 2nd 50 years.

Next week (May 6th) we will honor 2 Youths of the Month in addition to our

normal program, so we will start 10 minutes early - that's 6:50 AM.

THANKS

The 3rd Quarter Kansas District Meeting was held at the Manhattan Clarion with

the help of lots of Optimist, whom we thank: the Registration Committee

consisting of Steve Boeckman, Jerry Banaka, Larry Fox, Gene Klingler, Becky

Klingler and Almaz Rufael; Frank and Carol Connizzo, Greg Wurst, Bruce Spellman,

Almaz Rufael, Jerry Banaka,  Tom Bennett, Steve Boeckman, Howard Erickson, Mary

Phelps and Tom Holder on the Hospitality Committee; Tom Holder for providing

entertainment; Karen Spaeth who toured the spouses; John White who arranged for

beverages; and Bruce Bidwell and Jim and Marlene Franke for lots of stuff. 

Also thanks to GTM Sportswear for the door prizes, the Gold Orchestra for

entertainment, Mayor Bob Strawn for his welcome, Boy Scout Troop 74 for the

presentation of colors, and speakers Gary LeGrange and Adam Walker.  The meeting

went well although attendance was lower than expected. 

LONG LIVE THE KING

Howard held the winning ticket but could only muster the King! 

APRIL BIRTHDAYS:

Apr  2 - John White

Apr 19 - Marvin Roth

If you have an April birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

         The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 30

April 22, 2009

PROGRAM:

Roger Brannan introduced Daylen Thomas as our April Youth of the Month.  Daylen is 6 years old and in Kindergarten at Bluemont Elementary School.   He came with his dad, Justin Harper, while mom Elizabeth was home getting brother Oakley Cudd, a 5th grader, and sister Haley Cudd, a 2nd grader, ready for school at Bluemont and looking after 20 month-old twins Devyn and Camdyn Harper.  We were particularly honored to have dad Justin with us.  He has been in the Army 11 years, including tours of duty in Bosnia, Germany, Italy, Africa, and two tours

in Iraq.  Daylen was also joined by his teacher Sam Wickham.  Unfortunately,

Principal Kathy Stitt was out of town, but sent her regards and best wished.

Teacher Sam Wickham said of Daylen in her nominating statement: "Daylen is a

very hardworking and respectful student.  He is always willing to lend a helping

hand and is a good friend to everyone.  He is also very fun and makes the class

laugh often.  He is a great example and leader for his peers. Daylen is a great

and wonderful little boy!"  She noted that Daylen is very active and lively in

class.  He lends a helping hand to his teacher in ways such as picking up

supplies and cleaning up in class after a class project.  She often uses him as

an example to the class of how to follow instructions in his class work. Daylen

admires his dad so much that he likes to play army and soldiers.  Daylen enjoys

playing outside.  He likes to ride his bike.  He is good at entertaining the

twins Devyn and Camdyn.  He has an interest in the computer pet game, "Webkins," in which he takes care of a pet. Daylen is a very self-sufficient young man.  If there are no other children around with whom to play, Daylen can entertain himself.  Justin also describes Daylen as a "genuinely good kid."  Daylen's teacher and principal have noted his contribution to his class.  We Optimists appreciate his good work in school and wish him the best.

GUESTS:

Jim Blanton introduced Joe Richards, son-in-law of Rex Fischer.   Joe and his

wife Beth have three boys.

NEW MEMBER INDUCTION:

Clint Hibbs became our newest member.  Clint was sponsored by Tom Bennett, but Tom was away so Clint's father-in-law, Tom Arpin, pinned him and gave him a

license plate.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

The 3rd Quarter Kansas District Meeting will be held at the Manhattan Clarion

this weekend.  Extra volunteers would be helpful at the Registration 7:30-10 AM

on  Saturday morning, and at the Hospitality Room 4:30-6:30 that afternoon.

There will be a new picnic shelter at City Park, between the new playground and

the new splash pool, thanks in part to our Club.  We donated $1,000 to CoCO, the

umbrella group for civic organizations in Manhattan, who provided half the money for the shelter.

YOU GOT TO KNOW WHEN TO HOLDER:

Tommy held the winning ticket and pulled the Ace of Heart for a winner! 

APRIL BIRTHDAYS:

Apr  2 - John White

Apr 19 - Marvin Roth

If you have an April birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

           The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 29

April 15, 2009

Guest Editor this week is Tom Bennett.

PROGRAM:

Becky Klingler introduced our speaker Jim Reed.  Jim is a retired Methodist

Pastor.  His last permanent assignment was First Methodist Church in Manhattan.

Part of Jim's second career activities includes representing the Flint Hills

Community Clinic, where he serves as Chairman of the Board.

The Flint Hills Community Clinic provides free medical services to the medically

underserved in our community.  The clinic began in 2005.  Patients are scheduled

by appointment only and are seen after hours on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday

evenings.  All medical and almost all non-medical staff are volunteers.  The

clinic is located at 401 Houston Street, Suite C.  Volunteers, both medical and

non-medical, are needed.  Applications are available by calling (785)323-4351 or

at the clinic.

The Clinic Board chooses to not use federal funding so that the rules of the

Clinic can be tailored to the local needs.  All services are free, but donations

from recipients are accepted.  Fundraiser events are scheduled and Jim

encouraged all of us to attend this fun event next Thursday.

MANHATTAN, KANSAS - Community members will come together next week to watch the

Kansas State Mystery Team (a group of basketball senior players and coaches)

take on an interesting opponent.  Selected seniors and staff from both the men's

and women's basketball teams will go head-to-head with the "Scrubs" on April

23rd.  The "Scrubs" team, made up of area physicians and healthcare providers,

plan to take no mercy in the game against these skilled basketball players.

Tip-off will be at 7 p.m. at the Manhattan High West Gymnasium on Thursday,

April 23rd.  Tickets will be $10 for adults and $5 for children.  The St. Thomas

More Catholic Church, Mercy Regional Health Center Gift Shop and the FHCC have

tickets for purchase.  Tickets will also be available at the door on the night

of the game.  Those interested can contact one of those places.  All proceeds

from the event will go to the Flint Hills Community Clinic.

Not only will spectators get the chance to watch a great game of basketball, but

various KSU items will be auctioned off throughout the evening.   Also returning

players next year for both women's and men's teams will be at the event at 6:30

p.m. to sign autographs.

GUESTS:

Tom Arpin brought his brother Sid Arpin.  Sid is the branch manager of BG

Consultants Hutchinson office.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Board meeting is next Tuesday night, 7:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church.

The District Quarterly Optimist meeting will be held in Manhattan at the Clarion

Hotel during the weekend of April 24-26.  Our club will help with the

hospitality room and registration.   Call Cliff to volunteer.

GAMBLING:

Jim Franke's lucky number was drawn from Bruce Spellman's (substituting for

Frank) pot of gold.  Jim did not draw the elusive ace, so the deck grows

thinner.  Everyone should buy a ticket next week.

APRIL BIRTHDAYS:

Apr  2 - John White

Apr  8 - Joel Brinker

Apr 19 - Marvin Roth

If you have an April birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

           The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 28

April 8, 2009

PROGRAM:

Becky Klingler introduced Laurie Mulch, the Assistant General Manager of the

Kansas State Fair, who gave us the inside scoop on what's happening at the Fair.

  The mission of the State Fair is to showcase industry, technology, commerce

and agriculture in the state, and especially to educate an increasingly urban

populace about the importance of agriculture.  The Fair in Hutchinson became the

official State Fair in 1913 when it was so designated by the Legislature.

However, state tax dollars do not go to the Fair.  It operates off fees

generated by the gate, booth space rental, food sales and income from other

events during the year.  They give this money to the state which then gives them

back what they need to operate.  Interesting, although the biggest part of the

budget goes to the grandstand concerts, only about 10% of Fair goes attend the

concerts.  Laurie has been with the Fair for 10 years and noted that a lot has

changed there since them.  About the time she came they started a $29 million

renovation of the infrastructure.  The city of Hutchinson, Reno County, and the

state all contributed to that project.  This renovation allowed the Fair to draw

regional and national events year-round, including RV rallies, cattle shows, and

even weddings.  A Fair Foundation, of which Becky Klingler is a member, was

formed to help raise money to continue to renovate, preserve, beautify the

fairgrounds.  The fairgrounds are open 365 days a year served by 24 year-round

staff.  In their drive to compete with a variety of entertainment venues for

audiences, the Fair is starting marketing activities on blogs, Facebook,

Mysapce, and Twitter targeting the 18-34 demographic.  No matter  your

demographic, Laurie invited all to come and see the changes in the Fair.

GUESTS:

Jerry Banaka introduced Bala Natarajan, who was back for a second visit.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW

Club and Foundation Board Meeting Tuesday, 21 April, usual time and place.

Bruce Bidwell mentioned that we cleared about $4600 from the spaghetti dinner.

Baseball Big Shot Nick Thilges still has some prime sponsorships available.

Supply limited so act now!  Still only $60.

Jim Morrison announced a work day at Optimist Park on Saturday, 18 April, at 9 AM.

THE BRUCE IS LOOSE

Bruce Spellman sat in for Frank Combs.  Your Esteemed and Exalted Editor held

the winning ticket, but picked the Queen of Hearts.  Still, he won a free

breakfast and the pleasure of greeting next week.  Unfortunately, due to

circumstances beyond his control, he won't be there next week, so Tom Bennett

will not only take over editorial duties, he will also greet and consume the

free breakfast. 

APRIL BIRTHDAYS:

Apr  2 - John White

Apr  8 - Joel Brinker

Apr 19 - Marvin Roth

If you have an April birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

            The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 27

April 1, 2009

Your guest Editor this week is Bruce Bidwell.

PROGRAM:

2nd generation Optimist member Becky "Mom" Klingler, April Program Chair,

introduced 2nd generation speaker Mike Finnegan. Mike is an instructor in the

School of Leadership Studies at KSU. He explained that an 18-hour

interdisciplinary minor in Leadership Studies was approved in March 1997.  In

the spring of 1998, eleven students constituted the first Leadership Studies

graduating class.  It has been growing every year since. The 18-hours involve 9

credit hours of core courses and 9 credit hours of elective courses. The core

courses include Introduction to Leadership Concepts, Culture and Context in

Leadership, Leadership in Practice, and Senior Seminar in Leadership.  The

Leadership in Practice course requires students to have had a leadership

position on campus or in the community.  For the elective courses, students must

choose three hours each from the elective categories of Ethics, Theories of

Leadership and Organizational Behavior, and Foundations and Applications of

Leadership.  Mike showed us slides of the new Leadership Studies building under

construction (I think) on the Shellenberger Hall parking lot.  It is set to open

during the Spring semester of 2010.  Becky is "Mom" to Mike because she was the

housemother of the fraternity that Mike was in when a student at KSU.

GUESTS:

Bala Natarajan was the guest of Jerry Banaka.  Bala is an Associate professor in

the department of Electrical & Computer Engineering.  Bala has a wife, Rehka,

and a son, Advith.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Nick Thilges made his annual announcement concerning T-Ball.  He passed around a

sponsor signup sheet and promised an umpire signup sheet would be following

soon.  Sponsorship cost remains the same as last year at $60.

Jim Franke thanked everyone that helped out with the highly successful Spaghetti

Dinner fundraiser.  Unofficially, it made $4,600.

BTW, Wrestling Concessions #2 made $3,400 and Wrestling Concessions #1 made $4,000.

Quite a 3-month run!

President Cliff announced that he and several other Optimist members attended

the Boys/Girls Club dedication of their new building last Thursday night.

Our Club will host the Kansas District meeting on April 24-26.    Volunteers

will be needed on several committees. Please contact Cliff Spaeth to offer your

services. 

FRANK'S GAME:

Another Frank(e)'s, Jim Franke, ticket number was picked but JF was only able to

pick the 2 of Hearts from the deck.  Jim is a partial winner as he got his $1

back but, due to a conflict, he will miss his free breakfast and the opportunity

to greet us next Wednesday.

APRIL BIRTHDAYS:

Apr  2 - John White

Apr  8 - Joel Brinker

Apr 19 - Marvin Roth

If you have an April birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

         The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 25

March 18, 2009

Your guest Editor this week is Bruce Bidwell.

PROGRAM:

Tom Bennett was the program this morning.  He started off by explaining that he

wasn't able to get Bill Snyder, Kathleen Sebelius, or  Barack Obama as a speaker

so he figured that he was the next best choice (I embellished just a little!).

Tom took the opportunity to discuss the Optimist Park Improvement Project, in

particular Phase 3 which is the development of a multi-purpose building on the

existing T-Ball field.  The current plan size is 90'W x 125'L x 16' or 20' H.

It will allow room for 2 40' x 40' mats, 2 batting cages, 2 pitching lanes,

men/women restrooms and a unisex shower.  Other possible uses could include

basketball, volleyball, MBOC meeting place, permanent Tree Lot inside salesroom,

rental for parties, get-togethers, etc.  Tom explained that the uses can cause

City of Manhattan code requirements and costs to escalate.  For example, a

kitchen stove would require an expensive exhaust hood.  Other uses could require

sprinkler systems, air conditioning, ADA restrooms, and additional hard-surfaced

parking areas, just to name a few. The building committee will be taking a hard

look at what the building should really be used for.  Tom welcomes your input on

the uses and design of the building.  One other interesting bit of information

Tom discussed was that the current and planned ball fields are not valid uses of

the land for the current zoning, even though the ball fields have been there for

decades.  There is a public hearing April 8 for the purpose of getting a zoning

variance. 

GUESTS:

None.  Actually I believe President Cliff forgot to ask for guests.  If there

was one, I'm sure someone would have said something.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

President Cliff read 2 thank-you letters from Youth Of The Month recipients Macy

Bieker and Mitchell Poulson.

EXCITING TIME TO BE AN OPTIMIST VOLUNTEER:

Wrestling Concessions #2 is this Saturday, March 21. 

The First Annual Spaghetti Dinner will be held Saturday, 28 March, at Pottorf

Hall, CICO Park.  Members are asked turn ticket money in to Clyde or Jim Franke

immediately.

Our Club will host the Kansas District meeting on April 24-26.    Volunteers

will be needed on the following committees: Welcome, Registration (on-site

only), Hospitality Room (Friday night, Saturday morning and night),

Spouse/partner Activities, Youth Activities, Entertainment, and Door Prizes.

Please contact Cliff Spaeth to offer your services.  Cliff is hoping for some

help from the Little Apple Optimist Club.

FRANK'S GAME:

The other Frank's, Frank Connizzo, ticket number was picked but FC was only able

to pick the 8 of Hearts from the deck.  But he is still a winner as he got his

$1 back and will get a free breakfast next week when he greets us.

MARCH BIRTHDAYS:

Mar  2 - Ken Lyle Mar 16 - Howard Erickson

Mar 12 - Dwight Nesmith Mar 19 - Lee Fager

Mar 15 - Pat Keating Mar 26 - Gene Klingler

      - Dan O'Neill Mar 28 - Dick Hayter

If you have a March birthday and are not on the above list or there is an error,

please contact Bruce Bidwell.

          The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 24

March 11, 2009

PROGRAM:

Larry Fox started the program with a discussion of three upcoming initiatives

that will appear as separate items on the ballot in April.  These initiatives

ask voters raise sales tax to: 1) replace City Park pool, 2) renovate Northview

and CiCo pools, and 3) pay for an Education Building at Sunset Zoo.  The first

two would increase sales tax by 0.1% each, while the Zoo initiative is only for

0.05%.  Larry noted that by using sales tax these items could be paid for by all

the people who come from surrounding communities to work or shop in Manhattan.

He also mentioned that if the first two aren't approved by voters, the City

Commission has indicated they will use property taxed to pay for the pools, but

if the Zoo issues fails there is no fallback.  Larry then introduced Mark Ryan,

General Curator at the zoo. Mark talked more specifically about what the sales

tax dollars would be used for at the zoo.   Currently, the zoo sees more than

100,000 visitors each year, 40,000 of whom are participants in educational

programs.  However, the education and youth programs are limited by the lack of

facilities.  The proposed 9,000 sq. ft. building would serve as the new entry to

the zoo as well as provide increased and dedicated space for educational

programs and public meeting space.  The sales tax would not pay all of the $3.9

million dollar cost, but would serve to leverage private money from Friends of

the Sunset Zoo, the Zoo Conservation Trust, and grants.  If approved, the target

date for completion is 2010. 

GUESTS:

Dave Reedy came as a guest of his brother-in-law, Jim Morrison.

For the second week, Sam Johnson, and engineer at B & G, was the guest of Tom

Bennett.  Sam is a graduate of Montana State and now lives here with his wife

Wendy, who is a graduate student in Entomology at K-State.

KUDOS

Breakfast Optimist Club Members are invited to the Boys and Girls Club's Grand

Opening VIP Reception on Thursday, March 25, at 7 PM.  The reception is in

recognition of major donors, including the Optimist Club.

David Littrell, Director of the Gold Orchestra thanked the Club for our generous

support for the 2008-09 season.  The Gold Orchestra is now engaged in a new

fundraising effort to upgrade the one-room Cedar Creek schoolhouse and 11-acre

property that was donated to them for use as a summer music camp.  Pictures and

more information on this project are available at www.cpzwebdesign.com.

Penny Senften, Executive Director of the Manhattan Arts Center, thanked the Club

for our sponsorship of the Missoula Children's Theatre.

STAND AND DELIVER!

The next and last (for the year) Wrestling Concessions will be March 21. 

Please contact Bruce Bidwell if you can help.

The First Annual Spaghetti Dinner will be held Saturday, 28 March, at Pottorf

Hall, CICO Park.  Members are asked turn money in to Clyde or Jim Franke

immediately.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

Jayson Kaus reported success at the Lawn Mower Clinic Tuesday night.  More than

26 kids attended along with 10-15 adults.  Optimists Gene Klingler, Frank Combs,

Jerry Banaka, and Steve Boeckman helped Jayson serve burgers, and Jim Blanton

stopped by to take pictures.  Special thanks to Burger King for the burgers, and

to K-Hill Engines and Charles Kaus for the lawn mowers.

Our Club will host the Kansas District meeting on April 24-26.  The District

Governor and Governor-elect met with Club President Cliff Spaeth and other Board

members at the Clarion in Manhattan last Friday.  Volunteers will be needed on

the following committees: Welcome, Registration (on-site only), Hospitality Room

(Friday night, Saturday morning and night), Spouse/partner Activities, Youth

Activities, Entertainment, and Door Prizes.  Please contact Cliff Spaeth to

offer your services.

Big Brother/Big Sister will hold their annual "Bowl for Kids Sake" fundraiser

March 28-29 at Zucky Bowl.  The money they raise will help increase the number

of kids they can serve.  Teams are forming, five to a team.  Contact Cliff if

you have four friends who want to help.

Next Wednesday, the Foundation Board and the Optimist Club Board will meet

together to vote on a motion to have the Club Board serve as the Board for the

Foundation as well. 

GREGARIAN

Greg Wurst held the winning ticket but pulled the 6 of Hearts from the deck.

Greg will come early next week to greet us.

MARCH BIRTHDAYS:

Mar  2 - Ken Lyle Mar 16 - Howard Erickson

Mar 12 - Dwight Nesmith Mar 19 - Lee Fager

Mar 15 - Pat Keating Mar 26 - Gene Klingler

      - Dan O'Neill Mar 28 - Dick Hayter

If you have a March birthday and are not on the above list or there is an error,

please contact Bruce Bidwell.

          The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 23

March 4, 2009

PROGRAM- YOUTHS OF THE MONTH:

Our first Youth of the Month for March was Niza Rangel, 9 years old and in 3rd

grade at Northview Elementary School.  Her family came out to support her,

including parents Silvia and Jose Rangel, brother Josue, sister Nefertiti and

uncle Noel.  Also joining her were nominating teachers Linda Duckworth, Heidi

Francis, and Stephanie Thomas, teaching intern Nicole Francis, and Northview

Principal Shelley Aistrup.  In the nominating statement, Linda Duckworth said of

Niza: "Niza arrived at Northview two years ago, speaking no English and reading

no English.  She has pushed herself and is now reading at the 3rd grade level!

She has read more books than any other student in my class (93 books and

counting!).  She is very hard working, sets high goals for herself, and always

does her best.  Her desire to learn is wonderful, and I am so proud of her for

all of the progress she has made."  Niza also gets a ringing endorsement from

Linda Duckworth about her abilities in math; Linda describes her as "a great

math student."  Teacher Heidi Francis seconded Linda's nomination: "When Niza

first came to my ESL class in November of 1st grade, she spoke only Spanish and

was unable to read or write English.  Throughout the past 2 ½ years, Niza has

put out tremendous effort at school and is now reading on grade level and

speaking very good English.  Niza is a student who strives to do her best every

single day.  She is a hard worker and an eager learner.  She always has a smile

on her face and is willing to help others in our ESL class.  I am so proud of

Niza and am honored to have her in my class." Niza would like to become a doctor

someday.  Right now she enjoys playing kickball and would like to learn to play

the flute.  At home Niza likes to play X-Box and to play with her sister.  As an

avid reader, Niza enjoys "Mr. Putter and Tabby" mysteries.  She admires Disney

Channel actress Selena Gomez and is a fan of Hannah Montana.  If she gets the

opportunity to travel, she would like to go back to Mexico to see her extended

family.  We Optimists admire her courage and determination to make the most of

her education at Northview and to challenge herself to do your very best.  Her

life exhibits many of the values we pursue in our Optimist Creed.

The second March honoree was Hannah Sullivan, an eleven-year-old fourth grader

at Northview Elementary School.  Joining her were principal Shelly Aistrup and

teachers Jessica Nelson, and Stephanie Thomas.  Teacher Levi Arnhold nominated

Hannah for Youth of the Month; however he was unable to join us.  Hannah also

brought along her grandparents Steve and Maryellen Hagemeyer and her twin

brother Cooper and younger sister Angelicia.  Hannah is a really remarkable

young lady.  She has to be one of the most positive young people that we have

recognized this year.  All three teachers in their recommendations, along with

her grandmother, pointed out that she is always smiling and very friendly.  Mrs.

Thomas described Hannah as "a burst of sunshine" with a contagious smile.  Mrs.

Nelson wrote that Hannah is such a joy to be around.  I have never seen her

without a smile.  She is always upbeat and positive and puts a smile on your

face whenever you see her.  Mr. Arnhold described Hannah as always having a

positive attitude.  Her grandmother, while talking about Hannah, said that she

is always smiling and wants to share her positive attitude with everyone that

she meets.  School is not always easy for Hannah.  But, this young lady is

determined to grow and profit from her experiences at Northview.  Her teachers

all agreed that she works very hard and approaches each new task and challenge

with a determination to gain from it.  She has made great progress this year as

a result of her determination to be independent and succeed.  Mr. Arnhold

pointed out that her persistence is particularly notable when she works on

difficult problems.  Mrs. Nelson commented that Hannah frequently turns her

assignments in early and never complains about the work she is required to do.

On one occasion Mrs. Nelson gave a spelling assignment on Monday and gave Hannah

a week to earn 100 points.  When Hannah came to class on Tuesday she had already

completed the points.  This demonstrated Hannah's work ethic and her desire to

complete her work successfully.  However, Hannah is not all about work.  Hannah

loves to swim in the summer time, she enjoys doing a variety of crafts, she

likes to listen and dance to music, especially country music, she likes to play

card games, she enjoys running and playing in the park, she draws, she plays

video games, she plays basketball.  She is also, as one might expect, a big fan

of Hannah Montana.  Hannah just enjoys participating in anything that happens to

be going on around her.  Hannah is also active in the Big Brother-Big Sister

program where she has recently begun to work on the hobby of scrap booking.  In

addition, is a big help with the children in her grandmother's day care.  Hannah

will often get down on the floor and play or work with the younger children.

She is very helpful and considerate around the house and willing to complete

her chores. We want to wish Hannah all the success possible and congratulate

her on being chosen as Youth of the Month.

The final Youth of the Month for March was 10-year old Steve Brooks who is in

4th grade at Northview.  Steve was accompanied by his parents, Jessica and

Robert Wallace, teachers Barbara Clark and Stephanie Thomas, and Principal

Shelley Aistrup.  Teacher Barbara Clark has gave this fine nominating statement

for Steve: "I believe that Steve deserves this recognition because of his great

improvement in school.  Steve is relatively new to the Manhattan area.  Steve

chose to put his efforts into his studies.  He has learned how to study and is

consistently one of the top spellers, he has developed a love of reading that

has led to a great improvement in his reading.  He has also become one of the

top math students in our class.  All of this has been achieved out of shear

determination on his part.  Steve has not only become a great student, he is in

the process of becoming a leader in our class.  Steve has the right combination

of caring and charisma that draws people to him.  He has made many friends this

year and students enjoy being around him.  Steve is not perfect, few students

are, but he sure is working hard to improve himself and set a good example for

his younger siblings and others that he influences.  I am very proud of what

Steve has been able to accomplish this year and am looking forward to what he is

able to achieve in the future."  Outside of class Steve has a variety of

interests.  His mother related that he carries his strong interest in reading

into the book series called "Unfortunate Events."  In addition he likes to draw

and  has played football and basketball.  His favorite football team is the San

Diego Chargers.  He likes to play Nintendo games and the online contest of

street racing.  Steve is a young man who has the self-discipline and inner drive

to make the most of his educational challenges.  We Optimists salute him for his

efforts to learn and to care about the people around him.  We urge him to keep

up the good work.

GUESTS:

Sam Johnson, and engineer at B & G, was the guest of Tom Bennett.  Sam is a

graduate of Montana State and now lives here with his wife Wendy, who is a

graduate student in Entomology at K-State.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

Oratorical Contest next week, so we will start the meeting at 6:50 AM.

Our Club will host the Kansas District meeting on April 24-26.  The District

Governor and Governor-elect will meet with Club President Cliff Spaeth and other

Board members at the Clarion in Manhattan this Friday, March 6, at 2:30 PM to

view the facilities and start the planning.  Any members interested in helping

to plan this event are welcome to join them.  Please contact Cliff to let him

know you will be there.

Big Brother/Big Sister will hold their annual "Bowl for Kids Sake" fundraiser

March 28-29 at Zucky Bowl.  The money they raise will help increase the number

of kids they can serve.  Teams are forming, five to a team.  Contact Cliff if

you have four friends who want to help.

Tom Hintz is still seeking contacts with those who might be willing to donate

goods and services to help keep our costs down for the Optimist Park Building.

Please contact Tom or Bruce McMillan if you know of anyone who might be able to

assist us.

Speaking of Optimist Park, the Foundation Board and the Optimist Club Board met

together last week to discuss details about the Park.  While together they

decided to suggest that in future the Club Board serve as the Board for the

Foundation as well.  This was approved and will come up for a final vote on

March 25.

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

Jayson Kaus made his annual appearance to ask for 2-3 volunteers to help with

the Lawn Mower Clinic at Pottorff Hall, CiCo Park on Tuesday, March 10, 5:30-7

PM.  Contact Jayson if you can help serve dinner and clean up.

The next and last (for the year) Wrestling Concessions will be March 21. 

Please contact Bruce Bidwell if you can help.

The First Annual Spaghetti Dinner will be held Saturday, 28 March, at Pottorf

Hall, CICO Park.  Members are asked to pre-sell at least 10 tickets each.

Please turn you money in to Clyde or Jim Franke by March 11.

HE THAT GIVETH SHALL RECEIVE

Bob Pulford held the winning ticket but pulled the 5 of Hearts from the deck.

Bob took his dollar back and guaranteed he would come next week to greet (unlike

our last winner).

MARCH BIRTHDAYS:

Mar  2 - Ken Lyle Mar 16 - Howard Erickson

Mar 12 - Dwight Nesmith Mar 19 - Lee Fager

Mar 15 - Pat Keating Mar 26 - Gene Klingler

      - Dan O'Neill Mar 28 - Dick Hayter

If you have a March birthday and are not on the above list or there is an error,

please contact Bruce Bidwell.

         The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 22

February 25, 2009

PROGRAM:

Steve Galitzer introduced Michael Gros, K-State professor and director of the

upcoming production of "Doubt" at the Manhattan Arts Center.  He noted that the

play is getting some buzz from the Oscar-nominated movie, but even if you saw

the movie Michael says you'll get a different take on the play from a live

performance.  The play by John Patrick Shanley takes place in 1964 in a Catholic

school in the Bronx.  It was a time of change in our country and in the church -

the Kennedy assassination the previous year (he was the first Catholic

President), the Second Vatican Council was revising Catholic liturgy and how

they communicated with the lay people, and the civil rights movement was

reaching its peak.  It was male-dominated world, a world of rules, hierarchical,

ordered.  The play is about ideas and the tension created by change.  Michael

noted that the cast members weren't alive at the time, and he had to explain how

different the world was then.  The play reflects the heightened debate going on

in society then an now that pitted certainty against doubt.  The MAC production

opens this weekend at 7:30 PM Friday, Feb. 27, with another evening performance

on Saturday Feb. 28 and a 2 PM matinee on Sunday, March 1.  The following week

there will be performances Thurs-Sat nights, March 5-7, and the final matinee

performance on Sunday, March 8. Pre-show talks with the director will be at 7 PM

on Saturday, Feb. 28 and at 1:30 PM on Sunday, March 8.  There will also be a

chance for the audience to discuss the play with the director and cast members

immediately after the shows on Sunday, March 1, Friday, March 6, and Saturday,

March 7.

GUESTS:

None.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

Our Club will host the Kansas District meeting on April 24-26.  The District

Governor and Governor-elect will meet with Club President Cliff Spaeth and other

Board members at the Clarion in Manhattan this Saturday, Feb 28, at noon to view

the facilities and start the planning.  Any members interested in helping to

plan this event are welcome to join them for the lunch meeting.  Please contact

Cliff to let him know you will be there.

Big Brother/Big Sister will hold their annual "Bowl for Kids Sake" fundraiser

March 28-29 at Zucky Bowl.  The money they raise will help increase the number

of kids they can serve.  Teams are forming, five to a team.  Contact Cliff if

you have four friends who want to help.

Tom Hintz is still seeking contacts with those who might be willing to donate

goods and services to help keep our costs down for the Optimist Park Building.

Please contact Tom or Bruce McMillan if you know of anyone who might be able to

assist us.

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

The next and last (for the year) Wrestling Concessions will be March 21.  We

still need 3 more volunteers on the first shift (5 - 9 AM), 2 more on the second

shift (9 AM - 1 PM), and 3 more in the third shift (1 - 5 PM).  Please contact

Bruce Bidwell if you can help. 

The First Annual Spaghetti Dinner will be held Saturday, 28 March, at Pottorf

Hall, CICO Park.  Members are asked to pre-sell at least 10 tickets each.

Please turn you money in to Clyde or Jim Franke by March 11.

WHO'S CHICKEN?

Dean Stramel offered to lead interested Club members out to the Konza to see the

prairie chickens booming later this spring.  Saturday or Sunday mornings will

work best.  Those going out have to be in the blinds before dawn.  If there are

4-5 people who want to go, contact Dean to make arrangements.

WHO WRITES THE CHECK?

Clyde Scott held the winning ticket and drew the wining card!  

FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS:

Feb 6 - Mike Holmes Feb 16 - Rex Fischer

Feb 7 - Steve Galitzer Feb 24 - Roger Brannan

Feb 10 - Mel Hunt Feb 26 - Mark Grinter

Feb 14 - Tom Hintz Feb 27 - Larry Brockson

Feb 15 - Larry Fox

MARCH BIRTHDAYS:

Mar  2 - Ken Lyle Mar 16 - Howard Erickson

Mar 12 - Dwight Nesmith Mar 19 - Lee Fager

Mar 15 - Pat Keating Mar 26 - Gene Klingler

      - Dan O'Neill Mar 28 - Dick Hayter

If you have a March birthday and are not on the above list or there is an error,

please contact Bruce Bidwell.

        The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 21

February 18, 2009

PROGRAM:

Jenny Trudo, Youth Court Coordinator for the 21st Judicial District Teen Court,

spoke about the purpose and working of this program.  The Teen Court program

serves as an alternative to prosecution for first-time offenders in the juvenile

justice system.  It provides early intervention and new opportunities for

positive development and success.  Referrals to the program come from the Riley

County Attorney, typically for non-violent misdemeanors.  Participants range in

age from 10-18 and must admit their guilt before entering the program.  Teen

court is voluntary and requires offenders to take responsibility for their

actions and face mandatory sanctions which can include community service,

apologizing to the victim, counseling random drug and alcohol testing, curfew

with surveillance, restitution, driver's license restriction, etc. Sanctions are

imposed by a peer jury composed of volunteers ages 10-18 from local schools,

some of whom may have appeared before the Teen Court themselves.  All

information about cases are confidential.  In the last 10 years over 230 cases

have been heard in our Teen Court and 90% of those offenders successfully

completed the program.  Those who did not were referred back to the County

Attorney for possible prosecution.  Teen Court participants have completed more

than 6000 hours community service, and the recidivism rate is less than 10%.

Currently there are more than 800 Teen Courts in 45 states.

GUESTS:

None.

TREE LOT THANKS:

Thanks to Steve Boeckman, Jim Franke, and Bruce Bidwell who disassembled the 35

Tree Display Stands that are in the Optimist Park parking lot.  These will be

reassembled as part of next year's Tree Lot . and so the cycle will continue!

Three young men from Mead Lumber banded and moved the Tree Display Stand ends.

They did a great job and I'm sure they did it quicker and better than Jim and I

could have.  It really saved us a lot of time.  Thanks Nick!

And to show you how little I notice things sometime, I finally noticed this past

weekend that the lights were gone from the tree by the garage.  Could have been

the wind but my best guess is Joel Brinker.  Thank you Joel!

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

Big Brother/Big Sister will hold their annual "Bowl for Kids Sake" fundraiser

March 28-29 at Zucky Bowl.  The money they raise will help increase the number

of kids they can serve.  Teams are forming, five to a team.  Contact Cliff if

you have four friends who want to help.

Tom Hintz is still seeking contacts with those who might be willing to donate

goods and services to help keep our costs down for the Optimist Park Building.

Please contact Tom or Bruce McMillan if you know of anyone who might be able to

assist us.

Our Club will host the Kansas District meeting on April 24-26. 

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

The next and last (for the year) Wrestling Concessions will be March 21.  Jim

Franke will be out of town, so we will need at volunteers to pick up the slack.

Help is needed on all shifts: 5 - 9 AM, 9 AM - 1 PM, and 1 - 5 PM.  Please

contact Bruce Bidwell if you can help. 

Nick Thilges announced with great fanfare the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club

First Annual Spaghetti Dinner to be held Saturday, 28 March, at Pottorf Hall,

CICO Park.  We need volunteers for set up and cooking on Friday, March 27, 5-9

PM and on Saturday from 4-9 PM to set up, clean up, take tickets and serve.

Members are asked to pre-sell at least 10 tickets each.

FRANKED

Mark Knackendoffel was not at breakfast to greet us!  Despite the

disappointment, Frank Combs was able to hold the drawing, which Frank Connizzo

won.  He only managed to pull the Jack from the Deck, so he was disappointed,

too.  Nonetheless, Frank C. will certainly rise to the occasion and be at the

door to greet us this week. 

FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS:

Feb 6 - Mike Holmes Feb 16 - Rex Fischer

Feb 7 - Steve Galitzer Feb 24 - Roger Brannan

Feb 10 - Mel Hunt Feb 26 - Mark Grinter

Feb 14 - Tom Hintz Feb 27 - Larry Brockson

Feb 15 - Larry Fox

If you have a February birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

           The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 20

February 11, 2009

PROGRAM:

Two Manhattan High thespians, who coincidentally happen to be children of Club

members, came to preview a couple a scenes from the upcoming MHS performance of

"Our Town".  Rebecca Margolies plays Emily and Paul Knackendoffel plays George

in this classic piece of Americana.  Director and MHS drama teacher Linda Uthoff

explained the play and the scenes they were performing.  She also talked about

the drama program, upcoming thespian events,  and ideas for the Spring play.

Performances of "Our Town" will be held Thursday, Feb. 19 through Saturday, Feb.

21 at 7 PM each night in the auditorium at MHS West.  Tickets are $5 at the

door.  Everyone is invited.

GUESTS:

Clint Hibbs came to breakfast as our newest member.  Clint was sponsored by Tom

Bennett.  Clint works for B & G, is married to Mary and has three children.

Mark Knackendoffel introduced his wife, Ann, who presumably came to see their

son Paul  perform as part of the program.

THANKS

Thanks to Jim Morrison for organizing the Early Expressions Art Project with the

Beach Museum and USD 383.  Jim reported that 350 attended on Saturday and about

125 on Sunday.  Jim gave his thanks to the many Optimist volunteers that helped

over the weekend: Ron Tacha, Clyde Scott, Jim Franke, Bruce Bidwell, Shelley

Aestrup and Steve Boeckman helped on Saturday and Howard Erickson and Bob

Pulford on Sunday. Cliff Spaeth and Roger Brannan showed up both days.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW :

Cliff reminded us about the Board Meeting next Tuesday, Feb. 17, 7 PM at First

Presbyterian.

Cliff also read a letter from Big Brother/Big Sister announcing their annual

"Bowl for Kids Sake" fundraiser.  The money they raise will help increase the

number of kids they can serve (there are 82 kids on their waiting list).  The

tournament will be help on March 28-29 at Zucky Bowl.  Teams are forming, five

to a team.  Contact Cliff if you have four friends who want to help.

Tom Hintz announced that the Optimist Foundation received $8,000 from the YES

Foundation.  This money will allow the Club to spend another $8,000 for youth

activities.

Tom Hintz is still seeking contacts with those who might be willing to donate

goods and services to help keep our costs down for the Optimist Park Building.

Please contact Tom or Bruce McMillian if you know of anyone who might be able to

assist us.

Speaking of Optimist Park, there was a great article in Sunday's Mercury about

the expansion project.  Tom Bennett reported that the clearing is done and

burning has begun.  The fill should be coming in soon.

Bruce Spellman is looking for more sponsors for 3rd Grade Basketball.

The next and last (for the year) Wrestling Concessions will be March 21.  Jim

Franke will be out of town, so we will need at least 5 more volunteers to pick

up the slack.  Please contact Bruce Bidwell if you can help. 

The First Annual Spaghetti Dinner will be 28 March.  Come next week to learn

more about our newest fundraiser.

Did you get your Optimist Magazine?  If not, please contact Clyde Scott.

MARKED DECK:

Paul Knackendoffel pulled the winning ticket which was held by his dad, Mark.

However, Mark only managed to pull the 6 of Diamonds. It will be nice to have

Mark greet next week.

FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS:

Feb 6 - Mike Holmes Feb 16 - Rex Fischer

Feb 7 - Steve Galitzer Feb 24 - Roger Brannan

Feb 10 - Mel Hunt Feb 26 - Mark Grinter

Feb 14 - Tom Hintz Feb 27 - Larry Brockson

Feb 15 - Larry Fox

If you have a February birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

            The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 19

February 4, 2009

YOUTHS OF THE MONTH

Our first Youth for February, Mitchell Poulson, is 7 years of age and in 1st

grade at Marlatt Elementary School.  He was joined for breakfast by his parents

Annette and Robert Poulson and siblings Zack, who is 15 and a 9th grader at

MHS, Kalli, a 13 year old in 8th grade at Anthony Middle School, Wesley who is 9

and in 4th grade at Marlatt, and 5 year old Hanna and 3 year old Jadyn.

Unfortunately, 11 year old brother  Nick couldn't make it.  Mitchell also had on

hand nominating teachers Marianne Eldridge, school social worker, and classroom

teacher Dawn Quintanar.  Marlatt Principal Claudia Conner was unable to come.

Marianne Eldridge and Dawn Quintanar had this to say of Mitchell in his

nomination: "Mitchell is a hard worker.  He has tenacity refusing to give up

even when the task is difficult.  He produces quality work to make every outcome

something he can be proud of.  He is generous and sharing with others.  He is

helpful, particularly with students who are struggling.  He has a genuine smile

and uses it a lot."  Dawn went on to say: "Mitchell enters the classroom each

day with a smile, and keeps that smile all day long.  In our 1st grade

classroom, we often work with partners or in small groups.  Mitchell can be

counted on to work well with any child in the room.  When new students join our

class mid-year, I pair them up with Mitchell.  I can count on him to help them

learn our routines, and quickly make friends with them.  Mitchell notices if

someone is struggling in the classroom, and is quick to help that person.

Academically, Mitchell gives his best on every assignment.  It doesn't matter if

a task comes easy to him, or is challenging, he works hard to complete work in a

quality way.  He is thoughtful and creative.  His contributions to class

discussions can help others, including grownups, see something in a new way.  On

the playground, Mitchell is an active and positive child.  As in the classroom,

he notices if someone is feeling left out, and he invites them to join a game.

He is fair and considerate. Mitchell conducts himself in the same manner

throughout the school.  In fact, that great smile is carried on past the school

day.  My family and Mitchell's family attend the same MHS Freshman basketball

games.  Mitchell and I wave and talk a bit at those games.  The grown boys in my

family now know Mitchell, and point him out to me..they say:  "There's that cool

little guy from your class.he's awesome!'"  Mitchell has many interests outside

school.  He enjoys family activities such as riding bikes, backyard baseball,

and jumping on the trampoline.  He enjoys wordfinds puzzles and crafts such as

Perler Beads with which he likes to make little gifts for others.  He likes to

put puzzles together.  He likes to read, especially about such subjects as

dinosaurs.  He is good to help with yard work.  Mitchell participates in his

youth group at church and in the church group singing.  Mitchell is starting

piano lessons. In the future he would like to be an artist.  Mitchell

exemplifies many of the principles of the Optimist motto.  The Optimist Club is

proud to recognize him for his good work at school and with his family.

Anna Hupp, a 4th grader at Marlatt Elementary School, was our second February

Youth of the Month.  Anna was accompanied by her parents Reagan and Jonathan

Hupp, brothers Ian, 16 months, Adam, in 6th grade at Marlatt, and Cade, in 2nd

grade also at Marlatt.  She was also supported by the presence of her

grandparents Mary and David Hupp and nominating teachers Marianne Eldridge and

Lisa Denney.  Her nominating teachers said of Anna:  "Anna is very willing to

help others.  She is a hard worker and really cares about doing her best.  She

is always eager to help her peers & has a genuinely kind heart..."  Anna has

quite a variety of interests.  She has played soccer in the Parks and Rec

program for 3 years.  She likes to play the position of forward.  She enjoys

swimming.  She participates in Girl Scouts.  She is a member of Marlatt's

American Girl Club and has read many of the American Girl books.  She has an

interest in becoming a writer.  She loves to read and likes to write little

stories.  She has participated in writer activities at the Manhattan Arts

Center.  She enjoys listening to music.  Both the teachers and her mother point

out Anna's quality of caring about others.  She is described as a person who has

many friends in different age groups.  Because of this sense of caring she

enjoys buying gifts for others.  She helps to care for her pet dog, Winston.

With her family she enjoys travelling to some of her favorite places such as a

dude ranch in Colorado where she can ride horses and swim in a hot springs pool.

She also likes to go to Chicago to visit family and to see the museums.  Anna's

attitude of caring about others is a quality for which the Optimist Club wants

to recognize her as one of our Youths of the Month.  This quality makes her a

special member of her class, her school, and the community.

GUESTS

Clint Hibbs returned for another free breakfast as the guest of Tom Bennett.

Clint works for B & G, is married to Mary and has three children.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW

Tom Hintz is seeking contacts with those who might be willing to donate goods

and services to help keep our costs down for the Optimist Park Building.  Please

contact Tom or Bruce McMillan if you know of anyone who might be able to assist us.

Bruce Spellman is looking for sponsors for 3rd Grade Basketball.

The next and last (for the year) Wrestling Concessions will be March 21.  Jim

Franke will be out of town, so we will need at least 5 more volunteers to pick

up the slack.  Please contact Bruce Bidwell if you can help. 

The First Annual Spaghetti Dinner will be 28 March. 

NICK DIDN'T WIN

Roger Brannan had the winning ticket and, with the help of Anna Hupp, drew a

King.  He gets breakfast next week, but I think he gave the dollar to Anna.

FEBRUARY  BIRTHDAYS:

  Feb  6  -  Mike Holmes Feb 16  -  Rex Fischer

  Feb  7  -  Steve Galitzer Feb 24  -  Roger Brannan

  Feb 10  -  Mel Hunt         Feb 26  -  Mark Grinter

  Feb 14  -  Tom Hintz         Feb 27  -  Larry Brockson

  Feb 15  -  Larry Fox

If you have a February birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

        The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 18

January 28, 2009

PROGRAM:

Steve Galitzer introduced Rob Dennell, Director of the Johnson Center for Basic

Cancer Research at Kansas State, to present an overview of the center and new

programs they have started.  The Center is now 25 years old.  Under its umbrella

there are 66 faculty in 4 colleges doing cancer-related research. Some of them

are engaged in basic research, meaning their discoveries lay a foundation for

new approaches for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, while others are doing

applied research, which directly addresses methods for prevention, diagnosis,

and treatment.  The seed money the Center provides helps develop projects that

bring in $12-15 million per year.  However, the mission goes beyond the research

in its name.  The Center is actively involved in education.  Scholarships and

undergraduate research support train future researchers.  There is also a strong

community outreach effort to educate the public about cancer-related issues and

to raise funds for the Center.  Among the more notable products of this outreach

is "A Day with Dr. Waddle", an activities and puzzle book that helps teach

children about cancer and answers questions they may be afraid to ask when a

relative or friend or teacher is diagnosed with cancer. It is printed in both

English and Spanish.  A just out is a pamphlet "50 Ways to Show You Care", a

practical guide to ways we can help and show our love for friends who are cancer

patients or survivors as described by survivors.  Also new is a agreement

between the Johnson Cancer center and the KU Cancer Research Center that will

provide a clinical setting that the K-State Center now lacks.

GUESTS?

Long lost member Tom Arpin showed up with his son-in-law, Clint Hibbs, as the

guests of Tom Bennett.  Everybody works for B & G.

Steve Galitzer introduced his wife Jan, who would not be out at this hour of the

morning except to accompany her boss, Rob Dennell, who was our speaker.  

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW

Tom Hintz reported that we are in the process of determining the cost

feasibility of the Optimist Park Building.  The building will house the

wrestling and softball programs.  He is seeking contacts with those who might be

willing to donate goods and services to help keep our costs down.  Please

contact Tom or Bruce McMillan if you know of anyone who might be able to assist us.

The next and last (for the year) Wrestling Concessions will be March 21.  Jim

Franke will be out of town, so we will need at least 5 more volunteers to pick

up the slack.  Please contact Bruce Bidwell if you can help. 

The First Annual Spaghetti Dinner will be 28 March. 

TINKER TO EVANS TO CHANCE

This time, Steve Galitzer had the winning ticket, but traded it to Almaz Rufael

who then traded it to Brent Benkelman, who held it at the time of the drawing.

Brent was kind enough to give up the free breakfast and greeting rights to

Almaz.  We'll see who shows up.    Oh, Brent didn't pull the Ace.

FEBRUARY  BIRTHDAYS:

  Feb  6  -  Mike Holmes Feb 16  -  Rex Fischer

  Feb  7  -  Steve Galitzer Feb 17  -  Scott Sullivan

  Feb 10  -  Mel Hunt         Feb 24  -  Roger Brannan

  Feb 14  -  Tom Hintz         Feb 26  -  Mark Grinter

  Feb 15  -  Larry Fox         Feb 27  -  Larry Brockson

If you have a February birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

           The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 17

January 21, 2009

Editing duties performed this week by Assistant Editor Bruce Bidwell.

PROGRAM:

Steve Galitzer introduced Actor/Director Brittany Bara from the Missoula

Children's Theatre.  Brittany is in Manhattan this week along with

co-Actor/Director Mallory Mousseau preparing for a production of the musical

"The Princess and the Pea" to be held at the Manhattan Arts Center.  She gave us

some background information on MCT and herself.

Jim Caron and Don Collins started MCT in 1970 in Missoula, Montana as a company

of adults who did plays for children on a make-shift stage in a local movie

theatre.  The plays - as well as the idea of developing live theatre for kids -

were well received in Missoula, and soon nearby Montana and Idaho communities

requested performances of their own.  This has now progressed to having, during

the 2009-2010 season, up to 48 teams of Tour Actor/Directors touring 1,200

communities in all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, and overseas on US military bases. 

Brittany was born and raised in Dallas, Texas and graduated with a BFA in

musical theatre from Emerson College in 2007.   She and Mallory tour in a Ford

F150 (upgraded from a Ford Ranger) that houses all they need - lights, sound

system, costumes, scripts, etc. 

During their stay in Manhattan, they held auditions on Monday, January 19 and

rehearsals are held in 4 hour sessions each day Tuesday-Friday.  The ages of the

children range from 4 to 15. Two 55 minute performances are to be held on

Saturday, January 24th at 3 and 7 pm.  Our club helps to sponsor this event.

"The Princess and the Pea" is a new show that is being performed by about 6 tour

groups.  The remaining tour groups perform older shows.  "King Arthur's Quest"

is the next new MCT show that is in the works.

GUESTS?

No guests.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Jim Franke announced that the Wrestling Concessions held on Saturday, January 17

was able to raise approximately $4,000 for the Manhattan Optimist Kids Wrestling

program.  This is a high-water mark for this fundraiser.

Greg Wurst announced that Ray White, MHS Resource Officer, distributed four $50

Little Apple® Dollars certificates useable in downtown businesses from our Club

to four kids who were troubled students but showed signs of trying to do better.

Obviously, names cannot be given, but Ray said they were most appreciative and

he thought he saw signs of improvement in their deportment and leadership.  He

said it is a very good program and thanked us.  He will do the same at the end

of the spring semester with money we have budgeted.

PUT THESE ON YOUR SCHEDULE:

On Wednesday, Feb. 4, about 3-4 volunteers will be needed to set up the Early

Expression exhibit at the Beach Museum, and 6-8 volunteers are needed from

6:30-8:30 on Friday, Feb. 6, to host the reception.   Contact Jim Morrison.

The next, and last for the year, Wrestling Concessions will be March 21, 2009.

This one will be without the services of Jim Franke who will be enjoying his

daughter's marriage in sunny and warm Florida.  Bruce Bidwell will be requesting

additional Club member help with Jim being gone.

The First Annual Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser will be March 28, 2009. 

A WINNER AGAIN!!

Not paying close attention and obviously not taking good notes, I believe that

Bill Moore held the winning ticket but he drew the ? of ?????.  Hopefully he

will enjoy his free breakfast and greet us next week.  If it wasn't Bill, then

it was somebody else.

JANUARY  BIRTHDAYS:

  Jan 12  -  Jayson Kaus

            Joe Grantham

  Jan 13  -  Dave Dreiling

  Jan 23  -  Jack Carlson

If you have a January birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

            The "Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club Bulletin"

        

Is published weekly by the Manhattan Breakfast Optimist Club, PO Box 623,

Manhattan, KS 66505-0623.

DAVID MARGOLIES           Editor       - 539-6177

TOM BENNETT               Asst. Editor - 776-4248

BRUCE BIDWELL             Asst. Editor - 556-0431

VOLUME 2009

NUMBER 16

January 14, 2009

PROGRAM:

GUESTS :

Kevin Peirce was the guest of Your Esteemed Editor.  Kevin was raised in

Hutchinson, graduated from KSU, and now owns and operates Bluestem Bistro in

Aggieville.  Kevin is also Vice President of the Manhattan Arts Center Board.

Kevin and his wife Penny are expecting their first child in a few months.

Jim Blanton introduced Derrick Richards, an agent with Blanton Realty, as his

guest.  Derrick and his wife, Cory, are both from Manhattan and graduated from

KSU.  After graduation they lived in Kansas City for 2 years, where Derrick

worked as an actor, before returning to Manhattan so Cory could pursue a Masters

in Marriage and Family Therapy at K-State.  Derrick and Cory have a 17 month old

son, Will, and are expecting a new addition in August. 

VOLUNTEERS STEP FORWARD:

On Wednesday, Feb. 4, about 3-4 volunteers will be needed to set up the Early

Expression exhibit at the Beach Museum, and 6-8 volunteers are needed from

6:30-8:30 on Friday, Feb. 6, to host the reception.   Contact Jim Morrison.

STUFF YOU OUGHT TO KNOW:

The next Club Board meeting will be on Tuesday, 20 January.

The First Annual Spaghetti Dinner will be 28 March. 

FOOL ME ONCE .

Once again Almaz Rufael bought the winning ticket but traded it to Steve

Galitzer.  And once again, Steve couldn't find the Ace.  Still, he won back his

dollar and will get a free breakfast and the pleasure of greeting next week.  

JANUARY  BIRTHDAYS:

  Jan 12  -  Jayson Kaus

            Joe Grantham

  Jan 13  -  Dave Dreiling

  Jan 23  -  Jack Carlson

If you have a January birthday and are not on the above list or there is an

error, please contact Bruce Bidwell.

YOUTHS OF THE MONTH:

Our first Youth of the Month was Oscar Viveros, a 10 year old in 4th grade at

Lee Elementary School.  He came to breakfast with his father, Imer Viveros, and

his brother, Omar, who is in 9th grade at MHS.  Oscar was also joined by

nominating teacher Carolyn Otto, teacher Nancy Barstow, ESL Teacher Sheri Appel,

and Principal Nancy Kole. Teacher Carolyn Otto has this fine nominating

statement for Oscar: "I can't begin to understand what a student from another

country must experience adjusting to a new school, new language and new friends.

Oscar has met these challenges with a positive attitude and eagerness to learn.

Oscar is always helpful in the room.  When I asked some of his classmates what

they appreciated about Oscar, here are some of their answers: 'Oscar is a good

friend to all of us'; 'Oscar is very, very friendly, he never complains'; 'He

has a big heart'; 'He does really funny stuff, he even makes Mrs. Otto laugh'.