Beaverton Optimist Club

Lillian's Majury's Memorial Service

2012-02-12T15:37:00.000-08:00

Our Lillian passed away on Thursday, February 9, 2012. She was such a vital part of our club and the community.

Her memorial service will be next Saturday, Febrary 18th, 2:00 PM, at the Beaverton Nazarene Church. Our club and Lil's church will be providing desserts for a time of fellowship after the service. If you would like to contribute to the effort, click the following link, and select "Lillian's Memorial Service" on the calendar. Please tell us what you will bring by leaving a comment. You will also find a link there with a map to the church. http://beavertonoptimist.webs.com/apps/calendar/

Helping celebrate Aloha's Centennial

2012-01-08T23:07:00.000-08:00

Around 650 neighbors came to the Aloha Business Group's event to have cake and cookies and visit the businesses and their displays and listen to our politicians share their visions.

Our own Washington County Commissioner Dick Schouten was there greeting folks.

Lots of folk entered our raffle for a free breakfast at the Peppermill Restaurant Feb. 2nd to hear Beaverton Mayor Doyle talk.

Our Boy Scout Troop 870 was the Color Guard bringing the flag in.

Opti-Bea-Bull

2012-01-05T21:06:00.001-08:00

Marv and Gene returned to their regular seats and MarvD gave the invocation so our new year begins and all’s right with the world. President Bob tucked his winnings into the administrative fund so we can feed our speakers and Gene won today’s raffle. Terry Merrit from the Beaverton Police was our guest again until we can induct him.

Joe was so elated about his Rose Bowl winning Ducks and the end of a 95 year drought that he forgot to shake the Secret Greeter’s hand. Which worked out all right since the greeter is so old he forgot Joe’s crime and Joe had to remind him! Scott complained that the Beavers never get footballs that just sit there inbounds waiting for some Duck to hatch it. And we had to listen to a play by play of this historical game almost forgetting to sing Happy Birthday to Dave and wish him a happy anniversary. Dave and his Tualatin Hills Park District will be installing new playground equipment June 2^nd and hoping our Club can help again with this project.

Sheriff Steve reports that Brian and Doug are moving their dentistry practice to a new office. It will be somewhere over near Goodwill. Steve is happy because he’ll get to install all new locks for them.

Wally isn't home yet from visiting his missionary son in the Dominican Republic so Pres. Bob asked me to remind everyone that the Club is sponsoring a booth this Sunday from 2 to 5 PMat the Mt. View Middle School in celebration of Aloha’s Centennial Birthday. Bruce plans to join us with some bicycle safety items since we help sponsor his NW Bicycle Safety Council group. Please come and help us man the booth and advertise the Optimists! Dick Schouten our own Washington County Commissioner plans to be there too.

Speaking of Dick, he brought a hockey scarf from the Winter Hawks to auction off which was scarped up by Marv for a grandson. He also brought some handouts to remind us of the upcoming election. The Oregonian wrote that Schouten “is an experienced and articulate advocate for the environment, alternative modes of transportation, funding for the arts, parks and other livability issues.” He has represented Aloha, Beaverton and Cooper Mt. for the past 11 years and can use our support, our votes and some help in campaigning which will cost around $90,000 this time around. His website is www.supportschouten.com

He also supports the County’s “Plan to End Homelessness” which our next week’s speaker will probably also support as Lisa Mentesana will be talking about Homeless School Kids. We will be singing happy birthday to Bruce Buffington that day. He did such a good job directing us this morning he may have to do it again Thursday.

President Bob reminded everyone that Monday night is our Board Meeting at PAL at 6:30 PM. Wally is scheduled to tell us about the Dominican Republic on the 19^th at our morning meeting. Mayor Denny Doyle is scheduled Feb 2^nd. The 16^th of Feb. will be an evening Valentine Dinner meeting at 6:30 PM. So we won’t meet in the morning. Leave a comment on our website calendar if you plan to attend. Feb 25^th is the Pacific NW District meeting which will be held in Keizer, Oregon. Please put that date on your calendar.

Deborah Martisak from the City of Beaverton presented a concept plan regarding Hall Creek from 114^th Ave. to 117^th Ave. to be presented to Metro for its Nature in Neighborhoods Capital Grant Program. The creek would be realigned along with a path which would include a boardwalk and re-vegetation with native plants, stormwater improvements, rock walls and floodplain bench and a series of swales cascading to the creek. She was hoping to get a letter of interest from the club. Jack was excited as he has been proposing improving our natural areas. (I think he wants to lure the herons away from his pond and have them eat the trout in this creek which she sort of promised…the trout I mean.) Anyway, the Club voted to approve signing our support for this flood control and re-greening of this creek. If you have questions her email is dmartisak@beavertonoregon.com Her phone is (503) 350-4084.

Opti-Bea-Bull 12-29-11

2011-12-29T19:50:00.000-08:00

Small group this morning with only one member willing to flaunt his Christmas present of three granddaughters dressed as gnomes presented on a canvas suitable for hanging in his living room. Our old friend Patsy didn't have to work so she joined us for breakfast and we discussed karaoke. Deputy Police Chief Terry Merrit joined us as Jack's guest and got to pick the raffle ticket. Pres. Bob won and Jack turned over last week's winnings to Marv T. for our Dean Mitchell Scholarship fund. Susan brought a sympathy card in as Will Moton's mother passed away yesterday after a battle with cancer. Noel didn't make it so the chorus was disbanded with no birthday celebration.

Pres. Bob reminded us that the Board Meeting will be on the 9th next year so don't show up on the first Monday. Wally has arranged a booth for the Optimists to celebrate Aloha's 100th birthday on the 8th which is a Sunday from 2-5 PM. It is across the street at Mt. View Middle School. We hope to have representatives from some of the organizations we support such as the PAL Club and the Start Making a Reader Today besides us. Bob also reminded us that our Scout Troop 870 will begin picking up Christmas Trees this weekend. Marv D. has arranged for the trucks to transport them to recycle and hopefully Tualatin Hills Park District is on board as the drop off site. Our Scouts raised around $14,000 last year which paid for their Summer Camp registrations, monthly Scout outings and Scout equipment. Call Sherry Peetz at 503-642-1714 to arrange pickup for your tree or your neighbor's.

We met at the PAL Club last week to help them hold a proper Christmas Party and were able to help them with leftover cookies and punch. It gives a person a warm feeling to be helpful like that. In fact Pres. Bob announced that we should gather up all the pictures and put together one of those Community Project reports to give to the Pacific NW District and show them how helpful we are. A Secretary's job is never done. Bob did present a check to PAL from money we raised from firewood sales.

Last week Jack brought another guest, Dave Hall, who use to be one of our members and is moving back to Beaverton, I think. Jack won the raffle which was probably his reward for being so diligent in inviting folks. We didn't have a speaker so shared our Christmas plans. Marv D got an A on his annual exam and is good for another ten years which is comforting to a guy in his eighties. Barry also passed his exam. Susan is involved in her procedure for MS but is shaking our hands with her glove. They don't exchange presents but she got a new brace for her leg which seems to be working OK. Wally is planing to visit his son, the missionary, in the Dominican Republic and leaves on the 27th. Scott took his family to Mexico and explored Puerto Vallarta. This week they are up at their cabin on Mt. Hood to ski if it ever stops raining. Bob shopped for clothes for a son and now has to return a gift card because the son may move as his office is relocating to Washington and he needs to make repairs to his house instead. I think Steve got clothes for his son too. And Jack made some sort of foolish exchange with his wife and now will be doing dishes for a year!

We did get a picture of Pres. Bob giving his presentation in his new Scout uniform on our Dec. 15th meeting. He was requesting Club support on starting a Scout Venturing Program which is for older kids from 14 to 20. The kids themselves have to decide what activities they want to do. The group can be coed as long as a female adult will volunteer. We encouraged Bob to try to get a group together. He already has some Scouts interested so it may be easier to form than a JOOI Club.

Beaverton Optimist Club Thursday, December 1st, 2011 (whoa!)

2011-12-02T11:32:00.001-08:00

AlanZ rang the bell, in place of Bob A., (Thank You Alan !)...... Marv lead us in the pledge and Wally followed with the invocation,and................................"This Day in History, 1958 &1990/96"....?? (What the??)

Barryarrived a tad late, but soon enough to collect his prior week rafflewinnings.....!

Joewas fashionably late, but made the rounds and avoided a fine.....sa-lick...!

DaveC won this weeks raffle........yes !!!

Jacktold a blond Joke........ Great intro, great drama, greatenthusiasm.......................weak ending.......!

Wallyauctioned off a marvelous "day planner"..... Marv D won the bid andis now planning Marvelous days ahead......cause he's an optimist.............!!

Wetook a moment to inquire about Vern & Pat Williams........ Soundslike Vern is doing well but Pat may be going thru some difficulties....... Weare thinking about you guys and will keep ya in our prayers..... :)

JoeC distributed some valuable Nike coupons redeemable for 30% discounts thisweekend only.....!! You should have beenthere..........!! Thank You Joe & Debra !!!

ImportantReminders:

1. Bob P's birthday this week..... (Bring expensive gifts next week)

2. Alan Z's birthday this week....( Bring more expensive gifts next week)

3.Birthday celebrations scheduled next week, Thurs PM.....( could be thehighlight of the yr.....according to Bob & Alan)........again, they arerequesting nice, expensive gifts please ,........

4.Beaverton Optimist Board Meeting, Monday Dec 5th, 6:30PM....PALClub......(Bring enthusiasm & support)

5.No Breakfast meeting next Thursday, Dec 8th...... (Don't bring nuttin)

6.Optimist Christmas Party, Thursday, Dec 8th, 6:30 PM, Peppermill....( bringgift to exchange and lots of smiles)...contact Bob P if you have not signedup...order off the menu or choose, fettuccini, sirloin or ham... noketchup.....

MorningEntertainment- Allen put together a bevy of power point photos, featuring past projectsand memories....... Was pretty cool to reflect on recentevents/accomplishments that turned out to be a lot of fun and were verysupportive of the community..... Awesome.......!!

Thisday in History.......1990- English Chunnel opens

1958...Rosa Parks makes history...

1996...No body knows and Wally cannot explain !#!$%! (should a been there ! )

Havea great Week.....!

Beaverton Optimist Club Thursday, November 17th

2011-11-18T17:07:00.000-08:00

Beaverton Optimist Club

Thursday, November 17th

Allen Z rang the bell, in place of Bob A. and Wally J followed with the invocation.

There ya have it..... A thru Z.....!

Wally also asked about "This Day in History, 1777"....??

Feeling a bit guilty, Wally apologized for harassing our morning guest and paid a visit to the fine pot.....Fortunately, he closed the door behind him....

Secret Greeter this morning was Bob P and several Optimists including Wally, Jack & Barry were fined..!

Barry B won the raffle and Wally collected his winnings from the prior week.

Bob also reminded everyone of our December 8th, Christmas meeting, 6:30pm, at the Peppermill... Recall no breakfast meeting that Thursday.......!! Bring your spouse, a wrapped gift, your appetite and some Xmas spirit and expect to have a great time and some good eats (steak, ham or your choice off the menu).

Speaker this am was Echo Crete, volunteer with Northwest Children's Outreach...This all volunteer, faith based network, provides clothing and other essentials for children ages 0-16. They have seven locations (warehouses) in the metro area, including Washington County. They collect and distribute diapers, formula, hygiene products, books, shoes, children's safety products, blankets and gently-used clothing (newborns to teens). Their concept is pretty simple. There are many children in the area who simply do not have the basic clothes or hygiene products to attend school. Northwest Children's Outreach work with other social service agencies, as a resource, to fill that gap..... Very impressive and rewarding effort..... You can get more information, volunteer or donate via the following www.northwestchildrensoutreach.org/

This Day in History, 1777... Articles of Confederation created by the Continental Congress......

No meeting next Thursday morning .....Thanksgiving......!!

Beaverton Optimist Club Meeting Thursday, November 10th, 2011

2011-11-12T18:31:00.001-08:00

President Bob Arneson and
Victoria Campbell, Youth Director,
Beaverton Library

Bob Arnesoncalled the meeting to order at 7am and Wally J followed with the invocation andthis Day in History, 1865?

Marv Dotyreminded everyone of the Veterans Memorial Celebration set for tomorrow, Nov11th at Bethel Church, adjacent to Veteran's Memorial Park (Watson & 7thSt). The program begins at 11am.

Wally J wonthe morning raffle and will collect next week.

Marv D wasthe secret greeter and all members were accounted for.

Bob Primroseannounced that our Xmas party is set for Thursday, December 8th,6:30-8:30pm at the Pepper Mill Restaurant. More details tofollow and no morning meeting that Thursday. Please note the dateand make plans to attend.

Brian Reynolds and Brian Dalenbach
with Scout Troop 870

BrianReynolds and Brian Dalenbach from Scout Troop 870 provided an update thestatus of the troop which is quite good. The troop has 39 boys and over50 parents actively supporting the program. The troop is completing aquality assessment and is rating quite high. There annual fund raisingproject earned over $16K this past year. The troop is thankful for thesupport and charter offered by our club and would like to assist our clubduring future community project. Sounds exciting and very goodnews......

Speaker thismorning was Victoria Campbell, Youth Director from the Beaverton CityLibrary. Victoria highlighted programs for children, Moms and Dads,babies and preschoolers, elementary age students and teens...... A program forjust about everyone with a one year circulation rating exceeding3,373,900.............Amazing... !! I had no idea our libraryoffered all these educational programs and services in addition to providingbooks, dvds, Blu-ray and more.....!! Check em out at www.beavertonlibrary.org

Lillian Majury and Bob Arneson with
donations for the Aloha Food Pantry

This day inhistory 1865.....was the day of execution of the Civil War commander of theAndersonville Prison.

SpecialThanks this morning to Lillian who organized a food drive to benefit the HopePantry. Lillian had quite a haul of goods donated by our membership thisam..... Thank You everyone..!!

Thanks to Alan Zehntbauer for the pictures.

Optimist Bulletin 10-27-2011

2011-11-02T05:44:00.001-07:00

Bob A called the meeting to order promptly at 7am..... or sometime thereabouts..... Dave C was re-introduced to the club since most of the membership had forgotten his name after missing several meetings in a row..... Our newest guest and soon to be member, Clancy, was introduced and re-welcomed. Bob reminded all members to submit budget requests soon..... Like yesterday or sooner..... The board will meet the first Monday of the month which will be next Monday, November 7th. All members are welcome. Board has been meeting at the Beaverton Resource Center at 6:30 PM (PAL Club) We need to check with Jocelyn and note meeting change to the first Monday of month from now on. Lillian was the lucky winner of the morning raffle....! Joan announced that volunteers are needed at the Faith Cafe.....Please contact Joan for the details.. Marv T announced that on Friday Nov 4th, the Good Neighbor Center will host a fund raiser to benefit safe emergency housing. Admission is free and the event will 7pm-11pm..... Contact Marv T for more details. Dick Schouten was our morning speaker and provided a an insightful look at Washington County......Did you know the county is approx 728 sq miles with a current population of 530,000 residents which is projected to climb to 1 million by 2040. Most of the residents live within the urban growth boundary with a relatively small percentage living in rural areas. The county has a major role coordinating growth and services within a county governed by several municipalities and numerous other public service providers. The challenges facing our county and it's residents can be complex and we are appreciative of the efforts by the commission and our own Dick Schouten..... Speaker this Thursday will be Scott Hinderman, Park Ranger at THPRD who will talk about Cooper Park and a recent vegetation field burning project......... Thanks and see you Thursday...... !!

OPTI-BEA-BULL 9-8-11

2011-09-15T17:57:00.001-07:00

WOW ! what a great day for a meeting! After the bell rang and DaveBishop our speaker gave his breakfast order, Marv Doty gave the flag salute andinvocation. We did have a nice group this morning to share the morning andlisten to Dave as our speaker (more later)

Guests this morning were Sunny Kwon and Sara Ah invited by JoanAndersen wells. Jim Macfarlane, Dave Bishop (speaker) past Beaverton Police,and Jocelyn Taylor of Pal, invited by Bruce Buffington this month’s speakerchairman. Welcome to all and please join us again soon.

Without our Sheriff on hand our pres. had no daily raffle or pinand badge check this morning. However to recoup our losses we sang happybirthday to Joan Andersen wells who emptied her piggy bank with loose change.Not what a raffle would bring Mr. President but not a total loss.

“This day in history” 1810and 1974, In 1810 the Pacific FurCompany 1^st ship lands in Astoria Oregon to begin fur trading with Jacob Astor. (Actually Jacob’sship left New York on this day and 6 months later arrived at the mouth of theColumbia River where Jacob established his fur trading Post. The idea ofthe business came from Lewis and Clark where they pointed out we could ship the furs to

China

cheaper than sending them back to Europe. Thecity of Astoria was captured by the British during the 1812 war.) In 1974President Ford gave Richard Nixon his pardon. I’m sure the re-write will giveyou the rest of the story.

This Saturday 9-10 our club will man the food booth for the CandleLighters (kids with cancer) Marv Doty will chair.

Speaker, Bruce Buffington introduced retired Chief of Police fromBeaverton Dave Bishop. Dave started by saying that now he is open to answer allquestions being he is now out of city politics. Then Dave explained how he haskept busy in speaking engagements within law enforcements and other localboards he is involved with. Dave through the years has always been featuredspeaker at our club, as he remarked we were the first club he spoke with whencoming to Beaverton and the last club prior to retirement. Thanks Dave, comeback anytime and good luck in your retirement.

Next week speaker Sept.15^th Martha DeBry City Manager of North Plains

Sept.22^nd Jim Hough City Manager of Banks

Sept.29^th Allison George of Washington County Visitors Assoc.

Thank you all for allowing me to share my thoughts each week thisyear and good luck to Dave Chrisman, Iwill be down around the “Sara Gossa” for a couple weeks.

Until Then!

OPTI-BEA-BULL 9-1-11

2011-09-08T17:59:00.000-07:00

The bell rang then the flag salute and invocation by Marv Doty wewere on our way to a great meeting. Then came several this day’s in history1969,1039,1998,1983 and 1928. 1939 the Germans invaded

Poland

to start the second world war and 1998 airbags were mademandatory. Alan lets stick with one date even if you give me your list.

HappyAnniversary: To Noel and Eva 8-30 and Jim and Sharon 9-1, Daniel and Pamela 8-28, and Bruce and Lori 8-29.

Happy Birthday: Joan Andersen Wells 9-31

Guest: This morning our guestwas Clancy Kilburn the V.P. at the U S Bank in Beaverton. Clancy was invited by Marv Thompson and is waiting forthe bank’s decision about sponsoring his membership in our club.

Raffle: After a pay out to lastweeks winner which was donated to DMitchell, this weeks winner was Alan. Raffle amount I believe was $3.00 so Alangets $1.00 if my math is right. (Editor's Note...his math is sooo wrong!)

Welcome back Dick Schouten (busy man) and on his bike.

DistrictMeeting:Alan and Bob Arneson are back from the Seattle meeting where Hillsboro member Bill French was sworn in as District Governor.

No Speaker this morning but the following speakers are coming up.

Sept. 8^th DaveBishop Retired Beaverton police Chief

Sept. 15^th Martha DeBry City Manager of North Plains

Sept. 22^nd JimHough city Manager of Banks

Sept.29^th AllisonGeorge of the Washington county Visitors Assoc.

Until then!!

OPTI-BEA-BULL 8-25-11

2011-08-26T22:59:00.000-07:00

Meetingopened with the flag salute and invocation after the ringing of the bell. Didyou notice no today in history (later)

Secretgreeter: This week was Vern Williams turn to be the secret greeter. Verncould not find anyone in the crowd that did not shake his hand, no fines. SorryVern!

Thisday in history: Oh yes I did find something that happened August 25^th2011, this writer won the RAFFLE this morning. ($ 1300.00). Afteras many years of not winning the interest grows on my investments. I like thepower of the pen!!!Alan is out of town for his rewrite.

Golf:Marv Thompson pitched the up-coming golf tourney October 1^st, it’stime to sell those hole sponsors for the Dean Mitchell program. Contact Marvfor the letters to sell the hole sponsors.

Getwell soon Lillian after your hand surgery, see you soon we hope!

Membership: Joe Coss has mailed out next years membership renewal invoices,all are due by September 23^rd 2011 prior to our next year start onOctober 1^st.

FarmersMarket: September 10^th is the next Optimist market, This time itall proceeds will go to the Candle Lighters. Marv Doty will have a sign-up listsoon.

Speaker:This morning we again had our Chaplain Wally Johnston reviewing 9/11 groundzero pictures. Remember the 9/11 10^th anniversary is comingup. Thanks again Wally

Speakersfor September:

9-8-11 Dave Bishop, retired Beaverton Police Chief

9-15-11 Martha DeBry, City manager of North Plains

9-22-11 Jim Hough, city manager of Banks

9-29-11 Allison George, Washington County Visitors Assoc.

Seeyou all next week, untilthen!

Beaverton Optimist Bulletin 8-18-2011

2011-08-20T14:18:00.000-07:00

The meeting opened as usual with the flag salute, this day inhistory (1920 Tennessee ?) and the invocation by chaplain Wally Johnston.

Raffle: Today’s raffle was wonby our sheriff Steve Crowthers, I believe Steve receives $13.00. He is thesheriff so he get’s what ever he wants of the pot. (Mistaken statement offact…the editor!)

This dayin history: August 18^th 1920 Woman suffrage amendmentratified. The 19^th Amendment to the constitution, guaranteeing womenthe right to vote, is ratified by Tennessee giving it the two-thirds majority necessary for stateratification to make it the law of the land. The amendment was the culminationof more than 70 years of struggle by women suffragists. For the rest of thestory come to our next meeting you all! (Yea but there was also a coup againstGorbachev in 91 and in 1227 Gengas Khan died. You left that off… oh, and Ireceived another quill for my quiver plaque. (the editor)

OptimistFoundation: This morning our guest was PNW Optimist International FoundationRepresentative Eddie Murphy. Eddie has been traveling to all the clubs in thePacific Northwest District with his wife promoting the Foundation andexplaining the good it does for our youth programs. All of the programs thoughOptimist International are funded by the Foundation which is a 501-(c) 3.Thanks Eddie for a great overview of the foundation.

Speakers: This morning we were blessed with two speakers of our ownranks, I say blessed because you needed to be there.

First up was Wally Johnston our chaplain, with a gift for everyone( hard tack) cookies from the civil war. They were that hard, but Wallyexplained you had to soak it in your coffee, water, or sea water (sailors) toeat it. Hard Tack is made with flour, water and sometimes salt.

Next up was our Jack Franklin’s travels from Dazzos Arizona through Phoenix to visit their son and family in Surprise and then on to New Mexico and the Carlsbad caves. We will continue Jack and Carol’s travels the nexttime we have more time. Thanks again Jack.

Who will be the speaker next week ?? I failed to find out, butwait--- Alan will have it in the Bea Bull rewrite. Sorry Alan I had to do it.

Until then!

>>>>>> Breaking news…this justin!!! (per Bruce B.) <<<<<<

Here are the guest speakers andtentative guest speaker for September:

September 08, 2011 Dave Bishop, Retired Beaverton PoliceChief. Possible Topic: Life after serving as the longest sitting police chief in the State Of Oregon and his current foundation duties.

September 15, 2011 Martha DeBry, City Manager of NorthPlains Possible Topic: Update from North Plains and her former experience as anOptimist Club member.

September 22, 2011 Jim Hough, City Manager ofBanks Possible Topic: City of Banks as a recreational hub of Washington County, local economic development goals, etc.

September 29, 2011 Allison George Washington County Visitors Assoc. Appearancepending. Will confirm at later date. If Allison is not available, Iwill be the guest speaker for the 29^th.

OPTI-BEA-BULL 8-11-11

2011-08-12T20:12:00.001-07:00

Our meeting opened with Marv D leading the flag salute andChaplain Wally offering the Invocation and this day in history’s question… 1973(Dancing ??)

SecretGreeter: Marv Thompson shared his philosophy as a hoteldoorman or politician and greeted all with an embrace and handshakemisinterpreting the role of a secret greeter. Apparently our President failedto brief him as to the motivation needed while being an undercover greeter.Marv shook hands with everyone. Marv said the secret greeter needs to befriendly to everyone. The pot collected no money today Marv! FortunatelySheriff Steve stepped up with a ruthless pin and badge check.

Raffle: The morning raffle waswon by Scott Thompson for $5.50. Scott, don’t let Alan keep your $.50. Lastweek’s winner, Jack Franklin, donated his winnings to the Dean Mitchellaccount. Marv Thompson remarked that Jack is the only member this year to givehis winnings to that account. Coincidentally Bob P cleaned out his attic againthis week so our President was able to award Jack with the special “Spark Plug”plaque. Jack will have to change the special emboss tape to a correctedrecipient name.

Birthday: We celebrated onebirthday this morning, Wally Johnston. Wally arranged to have the Beatles singHappy Birthday to him. It was really quite nice Wally. We all paid for thisgreat event, happy Birthday Wally. Lillian passed a sympathy card around forall to sign for Wally who lost their family dog, Gracie, last week, sorryWally!

GolfTournament: Marv Thompson reported the letters andteam sign- up sheets are ready and we need more sales of the Hole advertisersigns. Remember all sales from these signs go directly into the Dean Mitchellaccount for our Public Safety Scholarships.

Club woodequipment: Jack Franklin completed aninspection of our equipment being stored at the Jenkins Estate. It is in a verybad condition and should be junked out. Our Wood splitter also needs repair andif it can be fixed we should sell it. The trailers and conveyer are o.k. forthe time being, if we can keep them covered from the weather.

Speaker: Jack Franklin continuedhis talk on his

U.S.

trip this past spring. Jack had photos of his trailer,truck and family. On April 8^th they started off from Portland to Dazzos Arizona stopping at Lapine, Lake View, Reno, Parump, Las Vegas and Kingman. There were the obligatory mechanical problemswhen power was lost from the super charger and Jack couldn’t reattach its cape?As time ran out Jack promised to continue his talk the next time we have anopening. Thanks Jack!

This Day1973:The birth of Hip Hop Dancing at a party in the Bronx New York City. Not my kindof music and dancing so I will stop there. If you want more come to themeetings! In 1934 on Pelican Island the first civilian notables were admitted to Alcatraz: AlCapone and Machine Gun Kelly to name a few.

Next Week’s Speaker,Wally Johnston will continue his talk onthe civil war and this time he will have treats for everyone so lets fill thearena or the tables to hear the rest of the story. Come in your uniforms if available butplease—no flags.

Until Then!

OPTI-BEA-BULL 8-4-11

2011-08-05T09:01:00.000-07:00

The meeting was called to order with our bell (oh how sweet thesound) the flag salute and the invocation and this day in history (tell youlater speaker Wally said).

This Day: Then President Al fearing our Club would gointo withdrawal if we failed to recap today’s history, briefly mentioned somehighlights. In 1873 General Custer badly misjudged his Indian adversaries atthe Little Big Horn. In 1944 after the Allies had already stormed the beachesof Normandy, Ann Frank and her family were betrayed to the Nazis andwere arrested. She and her sister died at Bergen-Belsenof typhus. In 1964 after an intense search by some 200 FBI agents, the bodiesof three civil rights workers were located buried in an earthen dam at Philadelphia, Mississippi. (This is the same town that President Regan began his runfor the presidency, perhaps a coincidence?) On that same day in 1964 we weretold North Vietnamese PT Boats attacked our ships in the Gulf of Tonquin which was the start of the Vietnam War. My head wasspinning with all these dates. We used to have just one date to concentrate onwhich was easy. Hopefully, Alan’scomputer will break again and we will concentrate on one era. Will the realmorning day in history please stand up… 1861 to 1865, thank you.

SecretGreater: Wally caught Marv Thompson ignoring him whileWally set up his equipment and then Marv told us an amusing story aboutplanning to circle back to shake his hand and greet him warmly but accidentallyforgot. It was a heartwarming story but he still had to pay-up.

Raffle: Today’s raffle $16.00was won by Jack Franklin (You get $8.00 Jack) for the second week in a row,this after Jack may have never bought a ticket (how can that be??) Jack diddonate last week’s win to the Dean Mitchell account.

BoardMeeting: OurAugust Optimist board will meet on Monday August 8^th at thecommunity center on Allen Avenue starting at 6:30 P.M. All Boardmembers who can not attend, please call Alan to be excused.

Speaker: Wally Johnston, ourclub’s Chaplain, author and history buff whose family fought on both sides ofthe Civil War, presented his film and slides on the Civil War of 1861 to 1865.Wally talked about what the first territories of our states went through priorto the war both economically and socially. All states wanted to protect thestatus quo prior to the election of Lincoln. After the war started it was found that families were dividedand brothers fought against each other. The farmer whose property was the siteof the beginning of the clash of armies at Bull Runmoved his family to a quiet out of the way spot toAppomattox Court House which is where the war ended in his parlor. For more informationsee Wally or his next program coming up. (see our web site for information)Thanks Wally for a great program on the Civil War years.

Last week’s B-Bull was not printed for those who missed it. Thereare those weeks that this guy runs out of time and town. We did have awonderful program discussing the 16 jazz venues available to us in Portland. We also learned that Merridith, our Program Chairman forJuly will be performing in the Hollywood District in a jazz performance thismonth. Hopefully she will share with us the date so we can go see her.

Until then!

OPTI-BEA-BULL 7-21-11

2011-07-22T17:23:00.000-07:00

Meeting this morning opened with ringing of sleigh bells which hasreplaced our missing club’s bell that the Hillsboro club lifted right in front of our president last week.Sorry Alan, your sleigh bells will not replace the real thing, so you best bitethe bullet and go get our club’s bell. If you need help let us know when to beready.

Flag Salute, and Invocation by Gary Mahone, followed by this dayin 1861. Having no one living at that time from our club, here is the story. July 21, 1861 was the battle of Bull Runduring the start of the civil war. This being a major defeat of the north andboth sided lost more than 5000 men during this battle between the states. Formore of the story see me at next week’s breakfast.

RoadClean-up: Next Saturday 7-23-11 meet at the east end ofthe parking lot at Beaverton K-mart 8:00 a.m. Seeyou there, it’s fun to work with your fellow Optimists.

PacificNorthwest O I Convention: August 25 to 27 at Bellevue Washington is our district’s annual convention. This should be a goodevent and O I ~~president Danny Rodgers~~ President-elect Jack Creswell will be in attendance. The augustconvention is a family O I get together and training sessions for new officers.The old timer’s breakfast is a must attend.

Raffle: Marv Thompson was paid(less hold-back) And this mornings winner dancing on his chair was Joe Coss.Joe will get $6.00 (with hold-back) next week if he shows. I wonder what ourpresident will do with all the hold-back $’s when he leaves office?

Birthday: This morning SteveCrowthers sang to us for quarters for his birthday, Sorry Steve you missed outon the cake last week. HAPPY BIRTHDAYSTEVE

Auction: Items from Marv andJack, two items from Minnesota, wild rice and mesquito eggs, and one from South Dakota, a rock. The bid went to Alan for $6.00, Great buy!!

Speaker: Jack Franklin afterreturning from a several state’s trip though the U.S. Jack talked about his dayat Mount Rushmoreand Crazy Horse monuments. We were shown a video of the making of the faces on Mount Rushmoreand the time it covered. Jack said this was a mini review of his trip with moreto come at a later date. Thanks Jack

Don’t forget the road clean-up this Saturday

Until Then!

OPTI-BEA-BULL 7-14-11

2011-07-16T21:47:00.000-07:00

After a short out of town in the Saragossa, This Bea-Bull will cover 7-7 & 7-14 weeks.

Both meetings opened as usual with the flag, invocation, and thisday in history.

7-7-11

This day in history 1912, Clue- who was WA-HO-THUCK ? ( Answer)Jim Thorpe wins the Pentathlon in

Sweden

. Thorpe attended Pennsylvania’s Carlisle Indian School and was the greatest all around athlete in the world ofthat time.

Raffle: Paid Michael (did he? )Next week Gene Grosse ($8.00 less $ Alan’s hold back) Hope for the best Gene!!

Birthday’s: A combined celebrationof birthdays coming up will be held next week with cake, balloons, and favorsall presented by Alan.

Speaker: Dan Murphy, GeneralManager of the Broadway Rose Theatre Group. This group has been active for20years in the Tigard/ Beaverton area using both out of town and local talent in theirplays. Dan was a great speaker and thanks Meredith for a fine program.

7-14-11

This day in history 1974- Carl Spaatz dies. “I’m sorry,” Comment Iheard in back of the room. Carl Spaatz died at the age of 83 on the this day1974, General Spaatz was a world war one and two fighter pilot and the firstChief of Staff of an independent U.S. Air Force. He also directed the bombingdrops on Hiroshima,

Japan

. Carl retired in 1948.

Birthdays: With cup cakes for alland for Susan, Tony, Barry, and Gary a lighted candle on top with sprinkles.After all present put into the pot, we were given their version of HappyBirthday with Gary on the jew’s harp. If you missed this month, wait for next month. Alanmay show with more cake, but it will be stale.

Visitors: Again we were joined bysome members from the Hillsboro club. (one that likes to steal) Yes, again we have lost something, our Bell. I believe there is an unwritten Optimist law, that the club’s bell or banner are off limits. I’msure the club from Hillsboro has known of this lawas we will be reporting this to O I. I trust our president knows what fines he has coming for not protectinghis jewels of the office he holds. All of this after we returned the Hillsboro reconditioned gavel this morning.

Raffle: Paid this morning GeneGrosse?? Winner Marv Thompson $$?? Sorry, Marv it’s a guess how much you willget when you show up next week (only Al knows)

Do you plan to attend the District Convention in Bellevue, WAAugust 25-27? See Alan

Road Clean-up- July23rd Saturday morning 8:30 a.m. meet at theK-Mart parking lot on Murray Blvd., this usually takes about two hours, see youthere.

Great to see Vern Williams back with us at breakfast. WELCOME BACK VERN!

Speaker: Tony Montes masterrecycler, Optimist. Tony reviewed all the many items that may now be recycledeach week within the curb cans. Also Tony reviewed items that should go toMetro sites for disposal. Each year more items are added to the recycle list asthe equipment is upgraded. Recycling does work and it saves money, Thanks Tonyfor bringing this to us.

Sometimes when you don’t get the whole story from the Bea-Bullit’s best to join us for breakfast and the great speakers we are having eachweek. Soon we plan another evening meeting for those who can’t make themornings.

Until Then

Photos from our latest meeting

2011-07-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

Dan Murphy Gen. Mgr. Broadway Rose Theater in Tigard, ORand Speaker Chair Meredith Weber

OPTI-BEA-BULL June 30, 2011

2011-07-02T04:08:00.000-07:00

Opening: Flag Salute and invocation started this morning’s meeting, followed by this day in history 1953. Are you old enough to know that wonderful year? Yes I am!

Visitors: This morning we had a full house and several visitors. First Joan Andersen- Wells introduced our morning speaker and her sister-in-law and brother Lorri and Dan Andersen. Next Wally Johnston introduced his son and daughter -in-law Eric and Kisha Johnston. Then Marv Doty introduced his son- in-law Bud Mullins who is moving to our area. (Don’t get any ideas. Marv has his application in his pocket.) Then lastly, Steve McKenzie, with three members of the Hillsboro club, made a visitation to return the gavel they stole and to get back the gavel they say we stole at our last visitation. They requested money but none was given. However, we still have one of their gavels which could bring a high reward.

Wally’s World: Wally Johnston thanked all that attended his book introduction on June 24^th and presented Cheri, our waitress, with a free copy of his book. Wally also gave our club $50.00. Wally is donating $1.00 for each book sold to our club. Call Wally if you would like a book. He will also be at Pioneer Courthouse Square in Portland on July 30^th for more sales and signing. Thanks Wally.

Raffle: Today’s winner is Michael Stack - $8.50 - unless Alan keeps his 30% withholding.

History Time: This day in 1953 the first production of the Corvette by General Motors was introduced. In its first year only 300 were built and they were all white in color and the body was made from fiberglass.

Beaverton Farmers Market: Troop 870 will be working on July 2. Please stop by to say “hi” and buy.

Fund raiser: The Hillsboro club has invited our club to help on July 17^th on a traffic monitor job in downtown Portland. Start time is 7:30 a.m. and each member will receive $20.00 for his club. Contact Alan if you can work this day for a few hours. They need 25 workers total.

Speaker: Lorri Andersen presented an overview of the life in the Nairobi slums of Kenya Africa. On a visit there and meeting a Dr. Hillary, his family, and hearing how they lived and was raised in the slums. Lorri and Dan are dedicated to do what they can do to help Dr. Hillary’s lifelong project to educate and better the life of the people there. If you would like to help in this outreach contact Lorri or Joan.

July Speakers: Chairperson is Meredith Weber and she has arranged on July 7^th for the General Manager of the Broadway Rose Theater Company of Tigard, Dan Murphy. Then on July 14^th (if available) Joey Harrington will speak. Joey is a past U.of O. quarterback and Pro- football player.

Until then!

OPT-BEA-BULL June 23, 2011

2011-06-26T21:09:00.000-07:00

Revised

Opening: Our meeting opened with the ring of the bell and the flag salute led by Marv Doty followed by this day in history (1878 in the old west) and the invocation by Chaplain Wally Johnston.

Guest: Wally introduced Greg Magnus from the Beaverton Police Dept., Greg is our club’s new honorary member for services rendered. Greg was very helpful during last Saturday’s garage sale and loaned us a canopy to keep us dry. He is the police liaison with Southridge High. We made $327.00. Thanks to all who helped in this first garage type sale. A show of hands indicated that we should consider doing this again in the future. Thank you Chairman Wally and Co-Chair Meredith. Thanks also to our frozen women who opened at 7 AM …Susan & Joan & Meredith and to Joe, Jack, the two Marvs, Gene, Lil and anyone else I’m forgetting.

Book Sale: Wally also will be holding his book sale and signing tonight (6-24-11) at the Peppermill Restaurant from 7 to 9 p.m. Wally’s book covers New York City’s 9-11 as a chaplain. Wally was also interviewed by KUPL radio.

Jr. Golf: Our club received a request to help in funding six PNW District Jr. Golfers trip to Florida. The request wasn’t approved by our board. Our funds are skimpy and we did not have anyone we sponsored this year going.

Weekly Raffle: Can it be believed? Alan “Mr. President” has now claimed he won two weeks in a row! How could this happen right in front of us? While we watched, you could see him puzzling over the four tickets in his hand, and then asking the Sheriff for help. He is clever!!! Fortunately Steve actually understands how the raffle tickets work.

Speaker: Today’s speaker Rachael Diehl was introduced by Joan Anderson Wells. Rachael is a member of the Master Gardeners and her main topic was Water Wise Gardening. Items covered, Planning & Design, Plant Selections, Soil Review, Efficient Irrigation, Mulching, and Maintenance. To find out more information on Water Wise Gardening go to http://extention.oregonstate.edu/yamhill/eco_gardening/waterwise-gardening . (Sorry, this link isn’t working…) Thank you Rachael and Joan for this interesting program.

Until then

Beaverton Optimist Bulletin 6-16-2011

2011-06-16T17:07:00.001-07:00

Marv D. led our Pledge of Allegiance and Wally gave the invocation and misled us in his history hint. As Joan knew (cause she looks these things up on the internet) on this day in 1884 there was no mention of dogs! The first roller coaster in the

was opened at Coney Island which went 6 miles an hour for some 600 feet. It is true that Nathan started selling “dogs” in the twenties at Coney Island but what kind of hint is that? Coney is Americanized Dutch for rabbit in case you wondered. Hopefully we impressed today’s speakers with our historical savior faire as they came to update us on our own Washington County Museum.

Our elderly President forgot his bag with money so appointed a very secret greeter to raise funds to pay Barry’s raffle winnings. This ploy worked because when Michael announced his victims, six annoyed members had to pay fines. There was further irritation when our President did his victory dance after winning today’s raffle.

Jack reported that Vern is in good spirits with his new heart valve but the Doctors want him to lay low for a couple of months. He would possibly appreciate a call or visit. Jack passed a map around showing where in Iowa he was born and gave us a quiz about famous people with weird names. His clue was guys who sculpt using dynamite? Gene claims to have a chunk of granite from one of these folks and Jack promises to auction off a rock from one of these tortured souls. Be cautious bidding on Jack’s auctions. Michael, having recently returned from touring Texas, actually remembered the name of the Commander of the Alamo! (So, incidentally, did Mr. Meek at our Hillsboro Club and it cost Jack a breakfast.)

Our own 9/11 Ground Zero Chaplain and author, Wally, reminded us about Saturday’s yard sale at the Nazarene Church. He has decided not to have a book sale stand there so he can keep a better eye on our members and not be pestered by people wanting him to sign books. He is being interviewed today about his book by the Oregonian here at the Peppermill! He will also be here on Friday the 24^th from 7-9 PM for a book signing.

Marv T passed out his latest proposed letter to our business community regarding our joint Golf Tournament with the Hillsboro Club scheduled for October 1^st at Forest Hills. We need hole sponsors at $100 and a copy of their business card. This will fund our Dean Mitchell $1,000 Public Safety Scholarship and other children’s funding through our Club.

Monday night the Board reallocated $200 which had been designated for feasting and dancing girls while helping to erect playgrounds for children with the Park District to help fund Jordan Strahl’s Scout Eagle project. He is building things for the Beaverton Police’s K-9 section. We still need two more Board members and a Secretary. Joe also detailed transferring designated funds to our Youth and Community area instead of building a storage area and maintaining firewood equipment at the Jenkins Estate.

We gave a wrap-up report on the Optimist Jr. Golf Tournament conducted by the Hillsboro Optimists. They had 42 kids participate this year and raised about $3100. Their costs were about $1000 to the Meriwether Golf Club and they need to send each child to Florida with $695. The Pacific NW District also contributes about $1500. Last year they sent 5 children and anticipate sending about the same number this year. We funded Parker Ryan’s participation in the tournament this year.

Donna Schmidt and Sam Shogren updated us on our Museum. Besides updating the building they changed the name from an Historical Society and are now the Washington County Museum. They have exhibits from early Silicone Forest companies like Floating Point Systems and flat panel screens. Tonight they have free wine and paintings of our own Washington County artists. Perhaps they will sign their works?

Go to: www.washingtoncountymuseum.org for exhibit schedules

Go to: http://beavertonoptimistclub.wordpress.com/?blogsub=confirming#subscribe-blog for update on garage sale.

Go to: http://beavertonoptimist.webs.com/ for pictures and bulletin

Another Saturday, Another Playground

2011-06-11T15:12:00.000-07:00

On June 4, the Beaverton Optimist Club and the Tualatin Hills Park and Recreation District completed the final playground installation project for the summer. This one was in the established older, neighborhood at Forest Hills Park.

The club assists the Park and Rec Department, the playground designer in the park projects, usually with neighborhood participation. The middle pictures shows one of the neighbors and their son helping out.

OPTI-BEA-BULL 6-09-11

2011-06-10T20:06:00.000-07:00

Meeting started right on time with flag salute and invocation by Wally and 1954 this day in history. Soon after the opening the secret greeter was called for and Joe Coss was caught a little late on his rounds. We did welcome back Barry Baxter and Marv Doty after brief hospital stays. Still on the absent list is Vern Williams who is now home from heart surgery and doing well, hope to see you soon Vern.

Board Meeting: Monday June 13^th at 6:30 P.M. at the PAL Club meeting room, all invited

Junior Golf: Our clubs entrant this year is Parker Ryan who is a sophomore at Aloha High School. The tournament is being held at Meriwether Golf on June 12^th.

Rummage Sale: June 18^th is the date for the Nazarene Church/ Optimist garage sale. Chairman Wally Johnston said you can deliver our items on the day before. The Church is located at 22^nd and Hall. For those signed up to work on the sale see Wally for sign-up sheet.

Book Signing: Wally’s book signing will be held at the Peppermill Restaurant on June 24th and books will be $10.00 with no senior discounts. Coffee and donuts possible!

This Day in History: June 9, 1954 Joseph McCarthy meets his match, after Joseph Welch special counsel for the US Army lashed out at McCarthy when he said communism had infiltrated the U S armed forces. Welch”s verbal assault marked the end of McCarthy’s power during the anticommunists hysteria of the RED SCARE in

America

. To read more see me next week for breakfast.

Raffle: Today we had two raffles, the first was the drawing won by Barry ($9.00) and a bag of goodies brought in by Bob Arneson and auctioned off by Jack Franklin. And the winner was Scott Thompson.

Speaker: This morning’s speaker was Francis Maiser. BUTTONS,BUTTONS, if you wanted to know all about buttons you needed hear what Francis had to say. Starting with the Romans up to today’s buttons we were shown a button collection that she started many years ago. Thanks Francis for joining us this morning. Next week’s speakers are Donna Schmidt and Sam Shogren from the Washington county Historical Society Museum. Thanks to Joan Andersen Wells our Program Chair for June.

Program Chairs for coming months: July, Meredith Weber, August, Wally Johnston, September, Bruce Buffington, October, Dick Schouten, November, Joe Coss/Dave Chrisman. If you have an interesting speaker that would like to be a speaker please contact anyone above to see if there is an opening. Also, as you can see, December is open for you to sign-up!!

Until Then

Beaverton Celebrates June 9th

2011-06-09T12:51:00.000-07:00

On this day in 1973 Secretariat wins the Triple Crown and Cole Porter was born in 1891 but most important...Barry Baxter and Marv Doty both felt well enough to rejoin us. Barry even won the raffle! Marv plans to go on walks with Vern Williams who was in the hospital at the same time and had his successful heart surgery.

Joan introduced Francis Maiser who brought lots of buttons and shared their history with us.

Steve Kruger Park Ranger 6-2-2011

2011-06-04T21:49:00.000-07:00

Steve spoke at Beaverton's Optimist meeting about Stub Stewart State Park and the new Banks to Vernonia Trail for horses, bikes and walkers. Please ignore the large Hillsboro sign...it is just a reminder as to who still has our gavel even after we visited them on Tuesday and provided breakfast for one of their members. There are lots of festivities planned for this coming Saturday at the Park. They will be cooking hotdogs for visitors, showing off the frisbee golf course, displaying the mountain bike course and so on. In the future, the astronomy club and OMSI will be viewing the planets and stars here instead of Rooster Rock later this month.

Joan Andersen-Wells, this month's program chairperson, presents Steve with a thankyou mug. My apologies to our members who became confused due to the sign and thought they had accidentally visited the wrong club for breakfast.

Wally visited Marv D at St V's. He did have a stroke but is doing all right and has left ICU for his room 920. His son and daughter are there and he anticipates going home soon. Thank goodness Gene checked up on him and got him up to the hospital and they cleared out the partial blockage in his neck.

Playground project at John Marty Park

2011-05-28T21:22:00.000-07:00

Members of our club spent Saturday, May 21, assembling the playground at John Marty Park along with the Tualatin Park and Recreation Department. See more photos by clicking on this link.

OPTI-BEA-BULL 5-26-2011

2011-05-27T07:48:00.000-07:00

Jeannie Moton was able to join us this morning and introduced Parker Ryan and his mother Jaylin. We are sponsoring Parker’s participation in the Optimist Junior Tournament at Meriwether National Golf Club on June 12^th. Our Hillsboro Club is hosting this Pacific NW District Tournament and Parker who is a sophomore will be competing in the 16-18 age division. Jeannie helps runs the golf tournament for Portland Community College. Perhaps she can offer some tips to Marvin Thompson and Bob Primrose who will be running our October tournament to raise money for our Dean Mitchell Scholarship Program. Graduating High Schoolers going into the fields of public safety with the police, fire, emergency technician or call center are eligible to submit entries.

Bruce Buffington invited Paul J. Malopolski who manages the Sunset Golf Center to join us for breakfast. Paul hopes to entice Aloha High woodshop students in constructing small structures on his mini golf course. Parker takes wood shop so this may be a happy meeting. Paul has also offered to allow PAL children to come on a field trip and play for free if I heard correctly. This makes Bruce happy as he has been involved with PAL since they formed in Beaverton.

Marvin Doty in his capacity as American Legion Commander briefed us as to the plans for Memorial Day and the participation of our Scouts in painting a cannon in the Park. He also sent a signup sheet around so we can get enough volunteers to man the Community Booth in Saturday’s Farmers Market. He led us in the pledge to the flag to start the meeting and Wally led us in the invocation. Today’s speaker was sick so Wally stepped up and showed us how the Club’s new blog works. He even explained what a blog is and the difference between a blog and our web site which is rather static. I think he was showing pity to me who spent hours trying to figure out how a blog works. If you want to share information with the rest of the Club, post it on the blog and an email will go out to all our members who have joined. Please, please send questions to Wally!

Next week’s speaker will be a Ranger to talk to us about Stub Stewart State Park and the Trail from Banks to Vernonia. Tony showed up again to collect his winnings for the second week in a row. We have planned a preemptive strike to visit Hillsboro Club’s meeting next Tuesday to recover our stolen gavel and perhaps take over their meeting. Plan to join us at 7 AM in the Hillsboro Senior Center. Turn in to Schute Park by the Swim Center. Thank goodness Marv Thompson won today’s $14 raffle so Tony can’t harass us and attempt to demand a kidnap ransom for our imprisoned gavel.

Remember that we are scheduled to help install a playground Saturday June 4^th.

Our Governor has announced the formation of a new club in Kirkland, Washington.

OPTI-BEA-BULL 5-19-11

2011-05-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

Meeting started on time with the flag salute and invocation by Wally followed by this day in history 1864. No one here this morning was there or could remember the event. We signed a get well card to Barry to recover from his operation. (Thanks Susan) In a turn about, we need to get her a get well card as she had laser surgery today to repair a retina which was detaching.

Jordan Strahl was introduced by Bob Arneson, our Scout Liason, to make a request for help on his Eagle Scout project. Jordan is working with the Beaverton Police dog handlers to build a dog ‘A’ frame training ramp, training fence and dog house raised platforms.

Jordan

is a life scout from our Troop 870 in Beaverton. Estimated cost of this project is $1250.72. Our Board will take up this request at next month’s meeting.

Birthday Bob Arneson said he would sing to us and we paid, not bad for someone 64!!!!!!!!!!!!

Last week when the Hillsboro club visited, our President is now missing a gavel, will he ever learn those farmers from Hillsboro can never be trusted and then Tony Montes returned to receive last weeks raffle he won. (maybe he took the gavel? ) And then this weeks winner was again Tony Montes ($7.50 this time), that’s it Tony, go back to farm-town.

Today’s auction by Wally Johnston was won by Scott Thompson ($10.00) a bag of police items, pins and a get out of jail card signed by Wally. Hope it works Scott!!!

Street Clean-up Gene Grosse reported no one under the age of 12 can help and anyone between the ages of 12 and 18 must sign a release.

Today’s Speaker Michael Stack: Michael presented a power point presentation of his trip last September to the northwest corner of Africa where they visited

Morocco

and cities in that area. Their tour visited market places, shopped for rugs, brought back leather goods and met some interesting people. He took pictures of mosques, old ruins of ancient cities, comparison shots of donkeys and modern tractors, and raising chickens on roof tops. Drinking mint tea is common to the area and you must accept the offer or offend their sense of hospitality. Thanks Michael, it looked like a nice trip and thanks for the great talk.

Next week on the 26^th, Scott has a fishing enthusiast as speaker so don’t miss it ????? See you all on June 2^nd

Until Then

OPTI-BEA-BULL 5-12-11

2011-05-16T07:41:00.001-07:00

Today we opened with the flag salute by Marv and invocation by Wally and his Chicago Cub’s day in 1970. (Something about 500 home runs?) What an opening, we were visited by five members of the Hillsboro club (an official visitation). Our Pres. did take precautions by having our bell and gavel guarded by Gene Grosse from the honored guests. (It ultimately didn’t work and they stole our gavel anyway!)

Announcements: Bruce Buffington announced two upcoming bike safety fairs 5/14 and 5/21 at local schools. Dave Chrisman announced our partnership in the assembly of park equipment Saturday 5/14 at the John Marty Park starting at 8 a.m. until finished. In retrospect, we only had two Optimists show along with lots of neighbors from the area. Not a good showing for Optimists. Sorry Dave. Oregon City club is holding a Pioneer Family Fun Days May 20-22 at Clackamette Park, see: http://www.pioneerfamilyfestival.com/ .

Today’s raffle: After leaving our club as a member and going to Hillsboro Club, Tony Montes won this morning’s raffle. One good thing, he bought five raffle tickets for all Hillsboro visitors. Tony said he will return to collect his $10.00 prize.

Speaker: Scott Thompson introduced his good friend, Greg Pressler, as this morning’s speaker. Greg gave us all a lesson in endurance sports and his way of living the moment. For those who missed this ½ hour talk, you missed a great one for sure. Greg started his running with triathalon races where you swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and run 26.2 miles, first in Canada and then in Hawaii five weeks later. Then he said that was not enough, maybe a 500 mile bike ride or a run to Seattle with a pack on your back (180 miles in four days). Next it was 100 miles in Colorado at above the 10,000 ft elevation. In 2005 he did the Warm Springs 100 mile bike and run then on to

Morocco

for the extreme test where you run in high temperatures in the Sahara Desert with a pack full of the provisions you need. And now his latest 2007 run was in Death Valley 135 miles again with a pack. Greg is a motivational speaker and writer in Portland and believes in living the moment. Thanks Scott and Greg for a great talk.

Last weeks board meeting reviewed the need for next year’s slate of officers. All interested in serving on the board, President, President-elect, contact Alan with your thoughts. We are in need of this in the next two weeks.

Until then!

Opti-B-Bull May 5, 2011

2011-05-05T17:59:00.001-07:00

Our meeting (breakfast) opened with the flag salute (Dave Chrisman) and invocation by Wally with this day in history 1945 in Oregon. Remember when you miss our weekly breakfast for the latest club news, you can read it on our web site (http://www.beavertonoptimist.webs.com/)

Today’s raffle’s winner (Michael Stack) let’s see ½ of $13 is $8 right Michael?? +++

Coming Events: Dave Chrisman announced the following dates: Saturday May 14^th is a work party to assemble more playground equipment at John Mart Park starting at 9 a.m. until around 2pm. Next: May 25 (Wednesday) there will be a work party to move the wood at the Jenkins Estate all available call Dave or Alan for the time. Park district employees will be helping with this work.

It is this time of the year for our club to select the new leaders for next year and submit this to O.I., please if interested to be our president for a year or be a board member, contact Alan before he puts you on the train track (wooo wooo) Get it railroad!

This Day in History: During World War Two, on May 5^th, 1945, six Oregon residents were killed by a Japanese balloon with a bomb attached in area of Lakeview Oregon. These were the only persons to be killed in the U.S. during that war. To see more on this meet me at breakfast next week.

Today’s Speaker?? (announcements) What was it??? Last Saturday we paid for our president to attend the District meeting in Salem (late) to bring back the latest happenings in the district. This was the meeting for the Oratorical Contest (Alan missed late again) and review what other clubs are doing for their communities young people and money raisers. As indicated, most clubs like ours are in need for new members along with maintaining present memberships. Alan would like to start a youth club within our area which could help get the word out about what we do and support in our area.

Next Week Speaker: Scott Thompson will introduce Greg Pressler who is a marathon runner and bike rider. This would be one not to miss, because Greg bikes for 500 miles at a time and runs to Seattle (180 miles) , let’s fill up the room.

Board Meeting: Next Monday May 9^th at the resource center starting at 6:30 the board will meet to discus club business. If interested in being a board member, join us to see what goes on.
Until Then!

Opti-B-Bull 4-28-11

2011-05-02T11:49:00.000-07:00

Our meeting started on time with the flag salute by Marvin and invocation by Wally, with this day in history 1965 (remember)

What’s in a name? I would like to know who would remember which of our members named the OPTI-B-BULL we use as our weekly bulletin. For the first one at our next breakfast to give me the name I will buy breakfast for that person.

This day in history April 28, 1965, in an effort to forestall what he claimed would be a communist dictatorship in the

Dominican Republic

, President L.B. Johnson sent in more than 22,000

U.S.

troops to restore order on the Hispaniola Island Nation. I will have the rest of the story at breakfast next week, be there. Wally’s son is on his way there as a missionary.

Wally’s new book will be out in June and if you buy one, Wally will sign it if you bring it to breakfast. (no charge I think?)

Our Pacific NW Optimist District Meeting will be held this week-end in Salem featuring the Oratorical finals and the election of Lt. Governors for next year. Contact Alan for information. NW Bicycle Safety Council is holding a Bike Safety Fair at Cedar Hills Crossing this Saturday from 10-12. Susan & Rudi won’t be able to help fit helmets this time but Bruce will need some volunteers to help out. Joyce Mijo, (

Frances

’ wife) also isn’t up to helping out, but she is doing better after her heart attack. She has some blockages which need to be repaired. Marv D reports that our Scouts from troop 870 are refurbishing the Howitzer in the Beaverton Veterans Memorial Park with paint and authentic WWI tires. Marv D also reports that his wife Elva is starting to eat and drink a little again and he and the children hope to locate a foster home to help manage her alzheimers. Park District has requested the wood at the Jenkins Estate be moved and stacked behind the hedge area on the gravel. Possible help could come from our Scouts Troop.

Wally volunteered to advertise the wood on Craig’s list. Perhaps we can get it all sold before we have to move it? Wally is also helping to locate a church where we can hold a June Rummage Sale.

This morning speaker was Dr. Randall Kinnison introduced by Wally Johnston a long time friend. Dr. Kinnison works within Genesis Mediation, LLC as fund raiser on rebuilding projects for homeless housing. He also counsels in divorce and family business, and estate / elder care. All housing is intended to be short term as they help with employment and housing as needed.

Speaker chairman for May is Scott Thompson, and for June Joan Andersen-Wells. Scott has located a man who delights in running and biking in Death Valley and in the Sahara too for that matter.

Last week’s evening meeting made $175.00 from the auction thanks again Susan and Joan. Next outing a one day garage sale if we can find a place. Until then!

Learning about housing the homeless

2011-05-02T11:44:00.000-07:00

President Alan is shown here with Dr. Randy Kinnison with Genesis Mediation, LLC and Homebuilders Association. Dr. Kinnison visited the Beaverton Optimists and discussed helping to recondition or build housing for homeless.

Opti-B-Bull 4-21-11

2011-04-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

This weeks meeting was moved to an evening event for members, spouses, and guests starting at 6:30 P.M.

Prior to the start, a silent auction was held with proceeds going to our administration account. This was organized by our members Joan Andersen Wells and Susan Nordstrom. Thanks to these two ladies the evening was a enormous success and a great time was had by all who attended. It would be my hope our club would have more of this type meeting to invite additional guests which could lead to prospective new members.

Our meeting started with the ring of the bell, flag salute, and invocation at 7 P.M. during that time we were served dinner. Wally challenged us with “this day in history” which was the beginning of Tiananmen Square in China in 1989. We also heard a tragic story about the death of a prize parrot who died from eating rotten horse meat. The meeting was held at the Peppermill Restaurant (our usual meeting room) after announcements and introduction of our visiting Lt. Governor Monty Akers, our evening speaker Margaret Armstrong was introduced by Joan Andersen Wells.

Margaret Armstrong volunteers at Tualatin Hills Nature Park and oversees the native plant sales held twice a year. Margaret showed and explained several native plants to our area and how to grow them in your gardens. Thank you Margaret for very informative talk you can join us anytime as a speaker or a member.

If you missed this meeting, go to our web site for some pictures of the evening. (I'm sorry Monty I guess you got left out.) Great meeting, Great Food, and Great Time. Our meeting next week 4-28-11 will start at 7:00a.m. and feature Randy Kinnison from the Homebuilders Assoc. as our speaker. Until then!

Happy Easter Everyone!

Opti-B-Bull 4-7-2011

2011-04-08T22:45:00.000-07:00

This weeks meeting started to a small but active crowd and a Doty invocation.

Traveling Optimists: Michael Stack returns from southern states (sorry Michael for your loss). When the snow leaves the passes, Jack Franklin is leaving for a trip of several weeks. Alan Z knows where or when?

Bob Arneson in Scout uniform presented our club with our scout troop’s charter for this year with a thank you for our support through the years. In addition, Bob presented our club with a $600.00 check for Marv Doty’s help with this year’s tree collection funding program. Thanks Bob and the Scouts for the donation to our club.

Raffle: today’s winner was non-other than Bob Arneson ($6.50), not this Bob oh well. The best part was, Alan missed paying himself for last week, so within the ops. he forfeits!!!

Dinner Meeting and auction: April 21^st meeting will be an evening meeting with a silent auction. The meeting will be held at the Peppermill Restaurant starting at 6:00 p.m. Remember no morning meeting on that day. A sign-up sheet will be at the 14^th morning breakfast.

Board Meeting: Club board meeting starts 6:30 p.m. Monday 4-11-11 at Resource Center on Hall Street. All members are invited to attend.

OI Internet Safety Awareness Month: The month of April is internet safety awareness month and Alan showed some films from OI cautioning children in grades one through four – of dangers they should be aware of. They should not give out information to anyone unknown and be aware of the dangers of chat rooms and to tell their parents if they feel threatened. Dave Chrisman shared a story of his nephew’s fatal accident a few years ago, and alert parents to be watching out for low windows that kids can fall out of.

Essay contest Winners: Did you see the District Web Page last week picturing our winners?

Today’s Fines: ?? As the meeting progressed fines were being addressed but not collected - but were collected after some reminders. No call on secret greeter, no birthdays. This was a loose meeting but a fun one optimist style. You should have been there!!!!

Next Meeting Thursday 4-14-11 7:00 a.m………….Until Then

Opti-B-Bull 3-31-11

2011-04-03T21:06:00.000-07:00

The meeting started by the ring of the bell, Marv Doty flag salute, and Wally gave the invocation and this day in history 1776(??) Today we had a full house with club members and the winners (with their families) of this year’s Essay Contest. More later!

Today’s raffle was won by none other than our president Alan ($8.00) having both tickets in hand. Did anyone see if he read the wrong ticket to win? We will be watching closer next time. Alan then gave our guests a brief overview of Optimist in general and the programs our club is involved with each year. In addition Bob Arneson gave a review of our Boy Scout troop, which we have sponsored for many years. The troop started small and has grown through the years. Today they have 40 young men and still growing.

The meeting was then turned over to our Essay Chairman Barry Baxter, who introduced the three winners for this year. The winner of third place was Christopher Malinosky, attending the School ofScience and Technology. Christopher’s $50.00 prize will go to the Drama Club at his school. The second place winner was Natalie Ceciliani who attends Central Catholic School. Natalie’s $75.00 prize will be presented to the student council at her school. Our first place winner was Jacqi Hansen who attendsWestgate Christian School. Jacqi’s $100.00 prize is going to purchase more books at the school library. Jacqi then read her essay, titled “How My Education is the Key to a Successful Future”. Each of the winners received a certificate and a medalion.

This day in history (1776), President John Adams wife Abigail asked the question, “Is it not time for the women to be able to vote?” It took another 150 years before the 19^th amendment was passed giving the women this right. (???)

The meeting was closed as always with the Optimist Creed. See you all next week and it is good to be back!

Until then!

Opti-B-Bull 3-17-11

2011-03-18T21:57:00.000-07:00

Our Flag salute was led by Dave Chrisman and Marv Doty gave the invocation. Prior to the opening bell, Lillian called with a sprained back still snuggled in bed with a heating pad while popping pain pills. This should have been an indicator that events might go catywhompus and not follow my typed agenda. Then some complained that I had set the picture screen in such a way as to obscure their view of our flag. I moved the screen to quiet the complaints but it turned out our man with his projector didn’t make it to the meeting. This was a bit of a snag in my plans as I was going to screen OI’s Internet Safety Program. Next week our speaker (which Lillian scheduled) is to be a gal from the Red Cross so I am crossing my fingers that we don’t have an emergency event here on the Pacific Coast. Thank goodness we disassembled our Trojan Nuclear Reactor and shipped it up to the Hanford Reach by Richland, WA. Hopefully they took the old fuel rods with it! The darn name should have been a dead give away that it was nothing but trouble.

Lillian’s car refused to run correctly anymore so we had gone yesterday to get a rental so that she could search for a replacement to last her a couple of more years. If anyone has any leads or suggestions, please give her a call. We did hold our raffle as scheduled and were amazed to find that Marv D didn’t win again this week? (He generously donated his winnings to the Candlelighters this time.) Joan gave a little victory dance and we presented her with our official St. Patrick’s lea of shamrocks in celebration but she will have to wait until next week to cash in on her winnings. It’s only $4.00 but perhaps that’s enough to take me to coffee?

Our This Day in History Section

In keeping with the beginning of our meeting, I left my notes on the history of Saint Patrick at home so had to wing it. I managed to remember how he had been abducted by Irish marauders and enslaved at age 16 but managed to escape and get on a boat back to Britain and go home to Scotland. He was a trifle religious and became a priest and was ordained as a bishop. He dreamed that he heard the voices of Irishmen pleading with him to return to their country which he did in 433. For forty years he traveled about building churches and preaching the Gospel. He died on March 17, 461 in Saul where he had built his first church. The Irish believe he drove the snakes from Ireland but since he lived in poverty I sort of wonder if perhaps he just ate them? Thefirst St. Patrick’s Day Parade was held in New York City in 1762 by Irish soldiers serving in the English military. The Irish were persecuted here so the parades became a show of unity and strength. In 1995 the Irish government said, “hey, this is a good thing let’s promote it.” Today it is an international celebration. We had our special napkins out to mark the day. (Hurry back Wally, they don’t like my history as well as yours!)

We had a guest show up and ask to talk with us. She is a neighbor of Jack’s and our old member Steve Wabnitz who moved toWest Virginia and a friend of Jennie Moton. She invited us to attend a music program on Saturday, April 16th at 7 PM to raise money for a child suffering from a very rare cancer diagnosed a year ago. Alena was diagnosed with Group4, Stage IV Alvelolar Rhabdomyosarcoma with 250 cases a year in the US and two in Oregon. Alena was in the hospital at the same time as another sibling with a different problem. Sort of like Japan with an earthquake and then a tsunami. Michael Allen Harrison the pianist and Julianne Johnson the vocalist are presenting this program at the Cedar Mill Bible Church to help the family and Alena out. The tickets are available from www.ticketsoregon.com for $25, $35, and $45 or we can make donations at any branch of the US Bank just ask for the Alena J. Marek Medical Fund Account c/o Acct # 153-662-744-777. If you would like more information about Alena’s story you can check it out at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/alenamarek . If you can’t make the concert, you can still buy the tickets on line and email them back to the family so that Alena’s friends in her class can attend. It is explained on the caringbridge site.

I didn’t take notes while I tap-danced throughout the meeting but remember asking Jack to discuss trailer camping while shampooing at some park and he did give some good news. His son is already back to work and we discussed the names of bones in a person’s arm and the horrendous pictures of the car from which everyone emerged alive. Jack plans to leave us for a couple of months and as near as I can tell he will be following Sarah Pale one and various politicians to Iowa where he was born but hasn’t settled on a platform to run on. He claims running for office once was enuff but you know these politicians. (I always wondered if he was really born in Oregon or perhaps Kenya?) He also claims to have a certificate for living in Oregon for 50 years which makes a person a pioneer and you can get free fishing licenses? Why don’t I know these things?

Joe Coss also had to admit he had bought a house over near Bend and his wife plans to retire from Nike and the two will be moving next year so Joe can take pictures of the Three Sisters and Three Finger Jack at various times and lighting out his window. He offered to present a power point program (since he and Dave Chrisman are next month’s Program Chairmen.) Perhaps we can discuss at our next Board Mtg.?

We discussed an upcoming yard sale to get rid of stuff in our storage shed over at Tualatin Hills Park and Rec. Hdqtrs. We learned sort of by accident that the steel we had used to put up our booth to sell buttered corn-on-the-cob has been cut down to make the trailers we used to build the trails in our Regional Park. Perhaps the lights we used to sell Christmas Trees with the Girl Sea Scouts are still there…who knows? We discussed at our Board Meeting having our new member Meredith help with this wonderful sale and a chance to be involved but I forgot to mention at this meeting. We did announce that the Board had helped Scott to decide in helping to find new leaders for next year. And we decided that having a walk for Childhood Cancer might be above our ability to organize. Joan discussed our upcoming evening meeting and the planned silent auction. She had to sort of explain how these auctions work. You would think that folks who have suffered through our Christmas Gift Exchange would already infer the pain involved in having someone trump your bid while your back is turned. Anyway, our speaker at the event will discuss the plants which will be available at the upcoming sale at THPR Regional Park so you don’t have to mow your lawn?! Please plan on bringing friends who might join us as well as your significant other.

Please stay up to date with our activities at our club website: http://beavertonoptimist.webs.com/

Meeting Minutes March 10, 2011

2011-03-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

Optimist Club Meeting Minutes

March 10, 2011 by Susan

No speaker today

A small group of us showed up and had a blast this morning. Special thanks to the following people who were able to make it on this rather drippy and windy morning. Marv D., Marv T., Gene , Bob A., Gary, Noel, Alan, Steve, Barry, Joe and Susan. Hope I didn't leave anyone off of this list.

Bob led us in the pledge and Marv D. said the invocation.

Alan brought and article in about the importance of riding a bike in order to keep the doctor away. Steve said he'd rather eat an apple then ride a bike and Barry suggested that Steve ride a bike while eating an apple.

Member News:

Bob A. made an announcement that next Monday, March 14th there will be a mid year Honor Cord Ceremony for the Scout Troop that we Sponsor. It just so happen that this year there are to be 60 Merit Badges being awarded to the scouts. Bob said this is extremely rare. Unfortunantly, it does fall on our board meeting night as well. Bob will get the information to Alan on the time and the location if you are interested in attending contact one of them or look for the e-mail talking about it. Would be nice to have someone from the club go and support the Boy Scouts.

Gary's Grandson, who came to show us his amazing talents in Taekwondo, will be getting his 2nd degree black belt this coming week. He was also inducted into the National Honor Society I believe that is what Gary said. So not only is he an expert in Taekwondo, he also is very smart!

Henry's wife just got out of the hospital. She had a bad asthma attack, after not having any real problems for 10 years. It was also discovered she had some pneumonia in her lung. She is doing much better now. Plus I heard a muttering that Henry got a new travel trailer though didn't get the specifics.

Wally got a blood transfusion due to some bad nosebleeds and is back home recovering from his health issues. Hope you feel better soon Wally. He mentoned that many of his friends have come by to offer him support and feed him meals and wants to thank everyone for their kindness for all he's been going through. Get better soon Wally, we miss you at our meetings!

Jack's son, Ted and his family, are doing much better and are at home. Jack and his wife Carol have taken their new motor home down to Champoeg State Park for some r/r for a few days. So happy to hear that Ted and his family are doing better. Thanks for the update Marv D.

Marv T. gave an update on the Golf Tournament. He has not heard from Bill French yet, though he did say that the tournament would be either the end of September or early October and that it would be at the Forest Hills Golf Course in Forest Grove. He talked about the cost for sponsoring a hole, which I believe he said would be either $ 100 or $ 125. Kind of zoned out at this point as I had gotten my breakfast and forgot I needed to be taking notes.

Susan gave an update on the dinner meeting on April 21st. It will be at the Peppermill, a Silent Auction will start at 6:30pm, if you are interested in donating an auction item please contact Joan. Dinner will start around 7pm and Joan hopes to get a friend of her's to come and chat to us from the Native Plant Sale. It's going to be a fun evening so please plan to be there and bring a guest or a spouse. Please let Susan know by April 18th if you plan to be there and how many you will be bringing. Thanks.

Don't forget, we want to fill the room on March 31, 2011 for the Award Ceremony for the Essay Contest winners. Barry has asked that 10 extra chairs be out that day. He hopes to bring in the outside judge that helped in this years contest.

There is a Board Meeting on Monday at 6:30pm at the PAL Club. Marv T. made a special announcement to say he would not be at this months board meeting because he and his friends were driving down to Bandon to golf 4 different courses in 4 days. He did put in a side note that there have been several earthquakes 200 miles off of Bandon and so not only would he have to contend with this while he was golfing, but he also checked out the weather report and said he'd be dealing with driving rain and heavy wind as well. So none the less we'll hold the board meeting without Marv T, and we'll all be happy our board meeting is inside where it is dry.

Last week raffle winner was Marv D. he donated his winnings to the club. And then he subsequently won this weeks raffle, so he'll have to come back next week to claim those winnings.

This day in history was 1959: Tibetans ban together in revolt, surrounding the summer palace of the Dalai Lama in defiance of Chinese Occupation Forces. Thanks Alan for this day in history.

There was some discussion on what would happen at next weeks breakfast meeting. I think we decided we were watching the Internet Safety Disk and Bob A. would bring his projector. Alan also suggested we look at photographs on cd of our optimist in different activities. Gary seemed to insert his own idea that we could watch the video he made up of the Nethercutt Auto Collection he went too I believe it was last year. So come and find out next week what we are doing, either way it's great to hang out with all of the Optimist Club Members.

Don't forget to check out our website at: www.beavertonoptimist.webs.com However this afternoon I have tried to get on and it just won't open anything up.

Have a great week.

Optimist Club Minutes

2011-03-03T18:47:00.000-08:00

By Susan Nordstrom for Bob Primrose, who is vacationing in Hawaii

Alan rang the bell, Bruce led us in the pledge and Marv gave the invocation, which included several prayers to members of our club.

Barry gave update on the Essay Contest. He has scheduled the winners to be at our club meeting on March 31, 2011. Please mark your calendar and let's fill the room for these folks!

Wally has a staff infection in his leg. He is home from the hospital, but in a lot of pain and isn't very mobile. He continues on with his antibiotic treatments, let's all keep Wally in our thoughts and prayers. I know that Lillian has been helping him out a lot as well.

Jack shared with us this morning that his youngest son, wife and kids were driving back from vacation, when a driver entering the highway going the wrong way nearly hit his son, his son had to swerve to miss the oncoming wrong way driver and ended up rolling his SUV Expedition many times before it came to rest on the roof. His wife was able to crawl out of the wreckage and I believe also get the kids out. Jack's son had to be cut out of the car. The son is in the hospital in Yuma Arizona, he has the following injuries: bruised lungs, a gash in his head that has 11 staples, swelling on the side of his head, a mangled left arm and a broken left shoulder. The wife is bruised up but OK and the kids are ok as well. Thank goodness! Jack wasn't planning on being at the meeting this morning but thank you Jack for coming and sharing this with us. Please keep us posted when you find more news out about your son and his family. Jack is waiting to hear more before deciding what to do next.

Dave Chrisman mentioned that on May 14th and June 4th that there are opportunities to help out with two playground install projects. I do know that on May 14th and June 4th that NWBSC will be having bike safety fairs. So for me, Susan, I would not be able to attend either playground build as myself and Rudy and Joyce volunteer at all the NWBSC Bike Safety Fairs.

I will be sending out an e-mail, separate to this one, to see how many people will be showing up for the Optimist Evening Meeting on April 21st.

It was decided this morning the evening meeting on the 21st because it is a Thursday and so that day will have the evening meeting at the Peppermill Restaurant and not hold our breakfast meeting. Joan and Susan are on the committee to get this together. Joan will be calling to reserve the spot at the Peppermill this afternoon as the scheduler was not there this morning when we were meeting. After the time slot is affirmed I will send out the e-mail.

Pin and Badge check: Dave and Barry both paid a fine.

Meredith was late, but Alan shook her hand and said that since he was the secret greeter he was not going to fine her. What a nice President we have!

Our Speaker today was, Ed Proulx from Love Inc. His group mobilizes churches to meet the needs of the community. Check their website out at: www.loveincbeaverton.org

In August Love Inc. gathers money and backpacks for their Packs of Love program. It costs $ 25.00 for a full back pack and $ 5.00 for the actual backpack. Bob Arneson brought up that this would be something maybe our club could do. I think if every member donated a backpack that would be an awesome idea. $ 25 is a very good price to help a child in need in the following school year.

Ed also mentioned they have volunteer opportunities available:

- Volunteers to man the phones on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday

- Men to move furniture

- Pick people up and take to doctors appointments, grocery shopping, outings etc. and bring back home.

- Mentoring

Please remember to check out our website at http://beavertonoptimist.webs.com/

Have a good week everyone, see you next week.

Opti-B-Bull 2-24-11

2011-02-24T13:01:00.000-08:00

Our Flag salute was led by Gene Grosse and Marv Doty gave the invocation. Our Chaplain Wally was missing because the doctors discovered an infection in his leg. According to his Facebook they made him come in last night for an operation. He’s at St. V’s in room 904 and Linda says he can have visitors. Now he only has pain when putting pressure on it whereas before it hurt all the time. We all signed a get well card.

After a careful review of Bob’s roster dated Jan. 2011, as he implored me, I detected no birthdays for this week. Our numbers were pretty small because it snowed a little over the night and even Beaverton closed their schools. Dick S didn’t make it to the meeting to collect his raffle winnings…perhaps it was too slippery for his bike? And our Treasurer failed to show up so I took possession of the money. We skipped a raffle but Bob A paid for our speaker’s breakfast. He is my hero! Berry was here hoping Joe would bring a check because we need to send the Essay contest packet with our winner to the Pacific NW District Chairman. Berry enclosed his own check so he is my hero also. He has arranged to have her and her family come and read her Essay March 31^st. Our members were so delighted with the publicity Marv T achieved by getting the Oregonian to publish the info on our Public Safety Scholarship, they hope we can also publicize our Essay contest. We all expressed our appreciation to Barry for his hard work.

A review of history revealed that in 1803 the chief justice of our supreme court decided in Marbury v. Madison that the court decides whether laws congress passes are constitutional. This drove Jefferson crazy because this power isn’t found in our Constitution. In fact, the Constitution says none of the three independent branches of government can interfere with any other branch. Oh well… A hundred years later our navy was delighted and obtained a new base (drum roll) Guantanamo! In 1991 a ground offensive began which we know as the Gulf War. This thing still lingers around. I forgot to mention to our group that in 1848 the Communist Manifesto was published. Let’s hear it for Feb 24…

We ran thru a quick review of upcoming activities: golf tournament with the Hillsboro Club, wood stacking, evening meeting hosted by Joan and Susan, yard sale in June, 5K walk for childhood cancer and serving food at the Faith Café. It turns out that our guest speaker was also involved with starting the Faith Café. Bob A introduced Joan Goldhammer who reminded us about Rebuilding Washington County. We have participated in their projects in the past. Our timing is off this year. The National Rebuilding Day is the last Saturday in April each year and they formed up the teams on the 17^th. We could offer our services to help out sometime this summer and she promised to find us a project. In past years, we painted and repaired some trailers on a Saturday which enabled the invalids to remain in the trailer park.

It turns out that Rebuilding Together is a national, non-profit volunteer low-income housing preservation organization. I thought it was just local. It helps preserve affordable housing by repairing and rehabbing houses of homeowners in partnership with the community. They have been performing free repairs in Washington County since 1994. She was interested in our golf tournament as they also run one. Apparently it takes a lot of work so we may have our work cut out for us. We presented her with our new Speaker Gift Coffee Mug which Bob obtained from a secret Newberg source and then fled the state to warm his toes in Hawaii. But who are we to begrudge the man his sybaritic , sensuous pleasure while we must remain buried in snow?

Press Release - Scholarship offered to students pursuing education in Public Safety

2011-02-19T23:05:00.001-08:00

The Beaverton Optimist Club will again offer a $1000 scholarship to a student from the Beaverton area to pursue a career in public safety.

Optimist International is an international service organization whose motto is "Friend of Youth". Optimist clubs current main thrust is support for children with cancer. Other activities include oratorical and essay contests, support for scouts, reading programs, bicycle safety, and various other activities of benefit to the youth of the community.

Dean Mitchell, a local business man, was a former club president and district lieutenant governor who had an avid interest in law enforcement. He was instrumental in implementing an annual Beaverton Police family picnic and the club to celebrate respect for law week. After his death his widow assisted the club in establishing the Dean Mitchell Law Enforcement and Public Safety scholarship fund.

For information about the scholarship contact your local High School counselor's office or call Marv Thompson at 503-439-0901.

We invite anyone with an interest in serving the youth of the community to join the Beaverton Optimist club, who meet every Thursday morning from 7:00 to 8:00 AM at the Peppermill Restaurant at 17455 Farmington Road, Aloha, OR.

Opti-B-Bull 2-17-11

2011-02-18T22:15:00.000-08:00

Welcome new member Meredith Weber
shown with sponsor Joe Coss

Flag salute by Jack Franklin and Alan the invocation, the meeting was off and running. Alan you are correct, no birthdays today. Just as a reminder please use the roster dated Jan. 2011 to be sure.

Alan reviewed last Tuesday’s board meeting where we discussed joining the Hillsboro club this summer to co-host a golf tournament. Marv Thompson hopes to raise enough money for our Dean Mitchell Public Safety Scholarship. Joe Coss explained our club’s possibility of helping at the Faith Café serving Sunday meals to hungry families which could lead to more out reach and perhaps members in our club and wood sales. An Optimist night out is in the planning stages in April at a local restaurant for dinner. This would be for members, wives, and guests with a chance to maybe get some new members, more later.

Reaching back Alan’s this day in history 1817 is when Baltimore was the first city to install gas street lights. That was so the horse and buggies rides through the streets would not get lost. In today’s time, older men like younger women so they can drive at night. This year Optimist International is holding its Annual Convention July 3-5^th in Baltimore. And Thomas Jefferson was elected our third President on this day in 1801.

Commish, Dick Schouten announced THPR has received an easement to Roy Dancer Park, this will allow better access to Roy’s park. Oh, by the way while Dick was here this morning he won the raffle (AGAIN) $6.00. Thanks Dick it really was my turn.

Speaker this morning was Teresa Huntsinger from the Oregon Clean River council. Teresa spoke on the best ways to maintain clean rivers in our area, we live on Tualatin River basin. Keeping our storm drains clean from foreign materials is every ones duty. Don’t buy “Antibacterial” soap as the active ingredient triclosan combines with Clorox in our water treatment plants to make dioxin a potent carcinogen. To get involved in clean rivers and find out what to do, get on line to Love Your Rivers.Org. Thanks Teresa

Alan and Joe Coss were pleased to swear in our newest member Meredith Weber. Meredith came to us from the SMART program. Welcome Meredith!

Next week’s speaker will be Joan Goldhammer from Rebuilding Washington County.

Have a nice March everyone!! Until then.

Opti-B-Bull 2-10-11

2011-02-10T19:57:00.001-08:00

This morning meeting was opened by the ring of the bell, Michael Stack (flag) and Dave Chrisman (invocation). It was a sunny 7 A.M. morning with smiles all around.

Reports: Lillian reported that Wally Johnston is doing well from a knee problem and should see us next week. Barry Baxter announced he now has eight entries in the Essay contest coming up on the 24^th of this month, district finals on the 28^th. Joe Coss introduced our newest club member Meredith Weber from SMART (pending board approval on the 15^th). Next Tuesday the 15^th is our board meeting starting at 6:30. We meet at the community center on Allen all are invited.

This Day in History: In Wally’s absence Alan tries, but I’m not sure where he gets his information. This day in the 1960’s Gary Powers (the high flyer) crashed in

Russia

and was supposed to take a pill (not sure what kind)[cyanide!] then Ralph Nader had something about car safety. Last item was that if you’re in politics in

Belgium

you’re not to have any Hanky-Panky (sex) until a new government is formed. (Otherwise, it will have taken them longer than

Iraq

to get their act together) I wonder how long before elections, in the

U.S.

it can take two years. Wally hurry back!!!

Speaker: Bob Arneson introduced Eric Hearn the District Director of the Sunset Trail District for the Boy Scouts. This being the 100^th year of Scouting Eric reviewed all about their program successes. Our local District serves over 3100 youth and young adults within 131 units, cub packs, and ventures programs. Bob Arneson announced our troop is very strong and after completing this year’s tree recycle program, they now have ample monies to cover this year’s programs.

Next Speakers: February 17^th Teresa Huntsinger from the River Keepers will talk on a program to clean our streams. Coming up is a river restoration day March 5^th at Munger Lane Farm with the Tualatin Riverkeepers. More from Teresa on the 17^th.

February 24^th we have Joan Goldhammer from Rebuilding Washington County.

Isn’t it fun being a Beaverton Optimist…………………Until Then

Opti-B-Bull 2-3-11

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

Did I hear right, this morning, Noel Franz while walking in grabbed the gavel from Alan to ring the bell to start the meeting and then Marv Doty gave the invocation. Mr. President you need to protect that gavel at all time. (ask Gary Mahone)

Raffle: A payment was made to Marv Doty ($7.50) for last week, then this weeks winner is Gene Grosse ($8.00). Did anyone else notice these two winners sit next to each other each week. Do you think some payoff has been paid??HMM.

Secret greeter: Marv Thompson is too friendly and caught nobody greeting him, or did he greet everyone. Marv better luck next time, we need the money.

Announcements: Marv Thompson (Dean Mitchell) all letters have been sent to schools and Local papers. Barry Baxter (essays) has three letters returned so far from applicants. Joe Coss announced he has had contact with the person from SMART with an interest of joining our club, great Joe. Alan has sent pictures of the wood piles we have to stack and sell from the Jenkins Estate, work party coming soon. Noel Franz has a new E mail address now that his old one is in the hands of others.

Speaker: This morning Arnie Leppert from the Faith Café reviewed what is the Faith Café. The Faith Café is a partnership of faith communities who, in love and justice, are dedicated to serving our neighbors in Washington County who are hungry for food and advocating for long-term social changes that reduce poverty and hunger. The Faith café serves free meals each Sunday evening at 6 P.M. to anyone who comes in at Beaverton first united Methodist church . All this by volunteers from eight local churches, and each week serve more than 100 meals. In addition to meals they give out groceries and some clothing when they have it. Arnie being a past Optimist knows what it is like to serve the youth and the community. Come back soon Arnie, join us!!

Next Week Speaker, Surprise!!!............Until Then

Opti-B-Bull 1-27-11

2011-01-29T21:56:00.001-08:00

The meeting opened as usual with the flag salute and invocation (Wally Johnston) This day in history—1943 more on that later.

Secret Greeter: For the second week in a row Gary Mahone was selected our secret greeter. This week Gary was in the house, not like last week when he was a no show and tried to pull a fast one to no avail. This week he did catch President Alan for a quick fine. Gary was told to sit, stay, and be quiet, not sure why?

Birthdays: Lillian Majury (1-29) and Marvin Thompson (today), Lillian wanted to sing to the group but Marv would not have a part of that, so he paid for both. That was a good thing because I’ve heard Marv sing on the golf course and it’s not what you want to hear that early in the morning, right Scott?

Raffle: Today’s raffle winner was Marv Doty I think! ( I was not listening at that time because I did not win again ‘shoot’ ) . Doty wins too often for me. Last weeks winner Noel Franz was in the house to collect, but gave it up to the club account, thanks Noel.

Fire Wood: Thanks to the park district guy’s all the logs at the Jenkins Estate have been cut and split ready for stacking by the Optimist to keep it dry and for sale. We now have 10 to 12 cords of wood ready. Jack or Marv will form a work party to help stack the wood.

This day in history: This day in 1943 was when the US 8^th Air Force first bombed

Germany

in the war, trying to eliminate fuel supplies. These planes were dispatched from

England

Speaker: Today’s guest speaker was Beaverton Chief of Police Geoff Spaulding. Geoff has been with Beaverton for two years now and he reviewed why Beaverton is one of the safest cities in N.W. Oregon, Bend is the other one. Geoff is very proud of the quickness they settle each of the situations they have before them. One item they do need is more space for the size of the Department right now they have 137 sworn officers. Thanks Geoff for joining us and we will be having you back soon.

Next week: The speaker next week will be Arnie Leppert from the Faith Café. Let’s fill up the room again!!!

Next week who will be the secret greeter???

Until then .... Think about this...

Click here to see the best card trick ever!

Opti-B-Bull 1-20-11

2011-01-20T16:02:00.001-08:00

Our meeting started with the flag salute and a invocation with 16 members plus guests from SMART, Stacy Goodwin and Meredith Weber.

As for last weeks B-Bull a few corrections were noted such as tattoos, and the members felt a fine was in order. This writer of the “B” did not vote as I do not accept fines for this effort.

Raffle: This weeks raffle was won by Noel Franz ($8.00)- Last weeks winner Richard Hose was not present and as suggested was donating to the scholarship, but this was re-donated to our Admin. account. Sorry Richard, but if you would like to make another donation we would accept it in what ever place you would like.

Secret Greeter: This morning’s secret greeter was requested and accepted earlier this week by Gary Mahone. Late last night I was informed that Gary would be absent but he wanted to remain as SG and “sting” everyone with a fine. As this was announced the members were upset and then voted that all fines be leveled on Gary. Sorry Gary I tried to turn it another way with no results, so please ask April for money next week to cover the 16 fines.

Birthday: This week was Joe Coss’s birthday. We paid and Joe sang. I believe he said he has 57 rings somewhere on him??

Board Meeting: The February board meeting will be on the 15^th at the PAL center starting at 6:30 p.m.

Speaker: The speakers this morning were Stacy Goodwin and Meredith Weber from SMART. They covered what SMART does in our area and in Oregon for the kids reading program in schools. We presented Stacy and Meredith with our check for $350.00 for this year. Thanks for joining us this morning.

Next week speaker: Next week the Beaverton Chief of Police will speak. Let’s see if we can fill the room. Alan we did miss you?? Until Then…..

Opti-B-Bull 1-13-11

2011-01-15T07:58:00.000-08:00

My secretary has disappeared to Depot Bay to play pinochle and eat clam chowder. So I am left to report on our meeting and deal with the tragedy which happened this week! (I speak, of course, not about Arizona or the loss of our police chief, but my own devastating loss of my zodiac sign. More of this later…)

We opened the meeting with our pledge to the flag lead by ex Scout Master Bob (we don’t sing to

Canada

because some of us can’t even remember happy birthday songs when called upon) and the invocation by American Legion Commander Marv T. reminding us of the loss of all those marines over the last week. Chaplain Wally decided to go to the coast and teach other Chaplains about dealing with loss. Thank goodness for Marv T who I accidentally will lose Feb 17^th to the Community Leaders Breakfast. The Beaverton Together group who spoke to us in November organizes Prom Perfect which gets our high school students to attend this party after the dance instead of private parties where they drink and whatever and drive drunk. I also accidentally mentioned Dick Schouten and Wally and Dave Chrisman so our meeting that Thursday morning will be shrunken. Beaverton Together also organizes an Inter-cultural Basketball Tournament and needs referees and coaches to help out. This is for kids who aren’t on the high school teams.

Our Secret Greeter Susan wasn’t able to fine anyone because she sits near the front and had to leave early for some tests so Joe Coss who came in just under the bell was able to shake her hand. (Note to me…pick greeters way in the back!) Our Sheriff is so dedicated that he fined himself and someone else for neglecting to wear a pin or name badge. The raffle winner turned out to be Richard Hose who hobbled in with his new titanium knee and no crutches. He picked titanium so that it would match his other knee. Turns out he played football besides rugby and I believe there might be a lesson here? He returns to work next week so he can’t collect his winnings and donated them to our scholarship. (Well, perhaps, of course this will have to be discussed with the appropriate sub committees and we can only hope no filibusters occur! And your dedicated leadership will need funds to register with the Second Quarter District Board meeting scheduled for next week in Seattle.) Maybe Bob will return in time to lead our meeting?

Richard filled us in on his peripatetic trip by train to all his old stomping grounds across our nation which enthralled Jack who wants to take the train south despite his new trailer. Bruce Buffington showed up to collect his raffle winnings from last week. He reported on his birthday bike ride in the rain yesterday and the pizza party he organized to raise funds for the Northwest Bicycle Safety Council. They provided two thousand children with helmets last year so need funds to purchase more for children who can’t afford to buy them this year. If you have a bit of cash left over, I think he might be happy to accept it.

He promised to sing a brand new birthday song to us once I reminded him of his 65^th birthday celebration which he apparently had forgotten since it happened yesterday. (Old age can be a terrible thing) Unfortunately, he couldn’t remember this secret song despite the fact he tried to sell us on an upcoming barbershop quartet production. He did finish off the old standard with a flourish and he does have a nice voice.

Our speaker this week was Jocelyn Taylor from the PAL Club. They have been in business for ten years and our Club helped to sponsor them and some of our members were on the Chief’s Advisory Committee involved in their formation. She accidentally mentioned Rotary’s $550 grant to PAL so that when I gave her our $500 donation check we came out a bit behind. She did hug me most graciously but I noticed she hugged Bob Arneson at the start of the meeting so she can be fickle. Their boxing program is quite successful. They even have gals boxing…I thought they were just working out. They had the mayor come to visit the kids and answered questions which delighted one of the kids who explained to his mom how he’d shaken the mayor’s hand. The Mayor’s Ball is scheduled for Feb 12^th at $85/ticket to raise money for PAL. Jocelyn loaned six kids to Bruce for his bike TV program and they answered safety questions sort of like Jeopardy with our past member Wayne Faligowski acting as MC. That progam is still running on the community access channel I think.

But, back to my own devastating loss of my zodiac sign. Apparently

"Astronomers have known about this since about 130 B.C.," Kunkle told The Associated Press Friday in his office at the Minneapolis Community and Technical College!” Astronomer Parke Kunkle says that due to changes in the Earth's alignment the dates of many zodiac signs have changed, according to NBC. In addition, there may be a 13th Zodiac sign: Ophiuchus. Kunkle says that as the Earth and Sun slowly move the signs gradually change, as expected. The change didn't happen over night either. The 12 signs were designated to different periods of the year almost 3,000 years ago, when astrology began, and since then the Earth's position in relation to the sun has changed.

Linda Zlotnick, an astrologer for 32 years in St. Paul, Minn., said she and fellow astrologers have long known of the issue raised by Kunkle, but that the most commonly used zodiac – tropical – isn't affected by it. Zlotnick said the sidereal zodiac, which isn't as widely used, IS based on the constellations "Will my personality change?" she mused. "Capricorns are diligent and regimented, and super-hard-working like me. Sagittarians are more laid back. This is all a little off-putting."

By the reckoning of Kunkle and other astronomers, astrologers are not only a month off in their zodiac signs, but they are neglecting a 13th constellation, Ophiuchus (Ooh-FEE-yew-kus) the Serpent Bearer, for those born from Nov. 30 to Dec. 17. According to myth, Ophiuchus became a healer when he killed a snake and another appeared with an herb in his mouth that revived the dead one, said Amy Sayle, an astronomy educator at the Moorehead Planetarium at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

All I can say is , thank goodness I didn’t get a tattoo. I know Bob was in the navy so I can only hope he didn’t put Sagittarius on his butt.

Opti- B-Bull 1-6-2011

2011-01-08T14:38:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year 2011, Alan opened our first meeting of the new year with the flag pledge and invocation by Wally Johnston. Followed by this day in history 1941.

This morning’s secret greeter was Bruce Buffington who could not catch anyone not greeting him. Better luck next time Bruce. You should try hiding in the closet! Bruce followed that by being today’s raffle winner ($8.00) but you have to come back next week to get your money. Jack Franklin, last weeks winner, did give his winnings to the Dean Mitchell program.

Marv Thompson announced that letters are being mailed to all schools regarding the Dean Mitchell public safety scholarship. The letters include the qualifying instructions for this scholarship which last year was $1,000.00.

This day in history (1941) was the day FDR gave a speech on the four freedoms we have in the

U.S.

These freedoms are the freedom of speech, the freedom to worship, the freedom from want, and the freedom from fear. All of these are pictured in the Norman Rockwell book which Wally passed around the room.

One auction item this morning was an auto seat back rest. Not sure who won, but all funds for the raffle go into the admin. fund which we need for this years budget. So Keep them coming. The bidding is fun to watch.

Our January board meeting will be held on Tuesday 1-11-11 due to the Oregon football game on Monday. Remember all members are invited to attend any board meeting.

Our guest speaker this morning, Past Pres. Bruce Buffington, talking on the Northwest Bike Safety Organization, gave us the history of the N.W.B.S. They serve over 2200 each year, 2000 of which being kids. We did present Bruce with our donation of $500.00 for this year. Thanks Bruce.

Have a great week, Until then!

Opti- B –Bull 12-23-2010

2010-12-24T15:33:00.001-08:00

Welcome all fourteen members and guests this morning. Merry Christmas

The meeting opened with our flag salute and Wally’s invocation. Followed by this day in history 1982, later for those interested.

No secret greeter this morning other than Pres. Alan, which could be considered a little sneaky. However it made for all to greet each other in true optimist style.

This morning’s raffle winner was Marv Doty. Marv will receive $6 dead presidents next week.

Alan told of one of our members attending last week’s gift exchange that could not wait to raffle off his great prize while on a bike outing. I understand it was a treasured item of high value. Alan, why did you tell on Bruce??

Our member Richard Hose, after his knee surgery, is recovering at home and Alan said he is doing well. Hope to see you soon at breakfast, Richard.

This day in history, in 1982 the Missouri town of “Time Beach” was evacuated and demolished by order of the Missouri health department. Why, you ask. Time Beach had dirt roads which became dusty at times - so the people sprayed chemical dioxin on the road to cut the dust, not knowing it was a health hazard. The spray was furnished by waste-hauler at low price which gives the lesson, “Watch out what you buy.” More to the story, you should have been there.

Speakers this morning was Brian Reynolds the new troop 870 Scoutmaster and Joe Mueller the outgoing troop Scoutmaster. Each reviewed the troops activities in the past and future coming events for troop 870. Presently the troop has 42 members from 10 to 18 years of age. This troop has a very active schedule through the year which keeps a very high interest in the troop. Starting on January 1st they will be collecting Christmas trees from homes for grinding. This will last for three weekends and is their major fund raiser. All funds pay for their troop’s activities for the year. Thanks Brian and Joe for joining us this morning. Alan mentioned to Brian that he can have a paid Optimist membership if he would join us through the year.

Happy Holidays Everyone

Until then…

Opti- B – Bull 12-16-10

2010-12-17T18:45:00.000-08:00

This morning we held our Christmas breakfast buffet and gift exchange. As always we invited our spouses, neighbors, and friends. We even had one daughter and granddaughter.

The morning was opened with our flag salute followed by Wally’s invocation.

Prior to breakfast, we made a call to past Pres. Jim Cates in Silverton ( I think we woke him) to sing happy birthday. I hope this met with your satisfaction Jim. Happy birthday was on the 12^th.

Each year we order a breakfast buffet (which was great) but there was one thing missing, Pat’s wonderful cookie assortment. Yes Pat, we missed you.

Now on to the gift exchange. As we entered with a gift we were given a number. As the numbers were called to select your gift at random, you had a choice to trade your ticket for a opened gift or select one from the table. Simple and no confusion (wrong), some were hiding their gifts so they could not be traded. All in all we always have a great time and it’s fun to see a full room.

In addition to the gift exchange we collected canned goods for the Sunshine Pantry. And we added a collection for our server for such good service throughout the year.

Next week 12-23-10 our speakers are the outgoing and incoming scoutmasters of our troop we sponsor though the year. Please plan to attend and thanks to Bob Arneson for inviting them as speakers.

Our December 30^th meeting (if you can attend) will be open for sharing what wonderful gift and Christmas you had with your families. MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!!!

Until then…

Monday we’ve scheduled a solar eclipse for your pleasure…the mgmt.

Opti- B-Bull December 9, 2010

2010-12-09T22:04:00.000-08:00

Once again our meeting was opened on time (7:00 a.m.) by Pres. Alan. Jack Franklin led us in the flag salute followed by the invocation by Wally Johnston. (The year to remember is 1921).

After the bell two folks arrived a little late. It was great to see Barry and Joe dig for their coins.

Wally Johnston will be retiring from the Sherwood Police force as chaplain on December 10. Congratulations Wally.

Gary Mahone was the winner of today’s raffle. Let’s see, April, how much was the pot? I believe it was around $50.00 so don’t let him tell you it was only $8.00.

This coming Monday is our Board Meeting. The meeting is held at the Beaverton Resource Center – starting time is 6:30 p.m. All club members are invited and the meeting lasts 1-1/2 hours.

This day in history, 1921, General Motors engineers discovered that if you blended lead into gasoline, car engines would run quieter – stops engine noise. See what you can learn by attending our breakfast meetings, and without a speaker of the day.

Coming up next week is our annual Christmas Breakfast and gift exchange. Bring a wrapped gift and join in on the fun of trading and hiding. Don’t forget, bring a guest.

Next up on December 23 we will have the new and old scoutmasters as our speaker. This is a great time to be a part of the scout troop we have sponsored for years.

Birthdays: Last week this writer missed announcing Alan Z’s birthday (retraction). This week we honored two, Francis Mijo and Bob Primrose. Thank you all for the great singing. On December 12 there is another big birthday, Jim Cates. It would really be nice if we could see Jim and Sharon at our Christmas party and we could sing to Jim. (If the price is right)

Please try to join us each week. This week as we did not have a speaker so there came the jokes. (one groaner) So you see we do have a good time anyway. See you next week.

Until then…..

Opti BeaBull November 11, 2010

2010-11-11T20:28:00.000-08:00

Twelve stalwarts showed up on this Veterans Day for our morning meal. Marv T led us in the pledge to the flag and Bruce gave the invocation. Sheriff Steve did double duty as secret greeter fining Barry in what some viewed as revenge. Susan turned over last week’s raffle winnings to Bruce for children’s bike helmets and then promptly won this week’s raffle. We celebrated Jack’s 49^th anniversary on the 10^th which turned out to be the same day in 1871 when Stanley found Livingston in Africa. The US Marines were also organized on this day in 1775 by the Continental Congress. Sesame Street began broadcasting this same day in 1969. On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day in the eleventh month in 1918 the guns on the western front fell silent and World War One was over. We celebrated Armistice Day and the war to end all wars was over. Today we call it Veterans Day and haven’t run out of veterans or wars yet.

We will meet again this Saturday at 8:30 AM in the Kmart Parking Lot to cleanup Murray Rd. Our last road party only took an hour. We discussed plans for our annual Christmas Party. The Board wanted directions as to whether we’d allow other members to run around grabbing the really good gifts we’d been lucky enough to unwrap. After a show of hands, we agreed again to allow this heartbreaking custom to continue and Bob Primrose to again arrange things. Mark your calendars for the 16^th of December as you begin searching your basement for appropriate gifts. That talking fish must be in a box somewhere? The question of a food barrel for the Sunshine Pantry also came up at our Board Meeting but our restaurant has already allowed a toy barrel to go in. We may have to find another location to collect food cans.

Wally wanted us to also remember the homeless children at Aloha High. Last week’s speaker, Jennifer Winquist left us a list of needs for these children. The Club has run out of Speaker Plaques so we (by we I mean Bob P) are exploring all possibilities including cups so we have something to give our speaker to remember us by. Marv T is proposing a golf tournament to fund our Dean Mitchell Scholarship program. Hillsboro had pretty good success with theirs last year and our funding from Intell through Commissioner Schouten has come to an end.

At the Board Meeting Monday we learned that Dusty will be dropping his membership for this year because he is traveling to South American so much and won’t be around. And Kyle Rogers hasn’t been around for a long time. In order to help members pay dues, the board discussed quarterly payments of $25 be allowed. Joe would like a $45 payment by mid December so we don’t have to drop any more members. The Club must pay OI and District and our Administrative account is low. Scott suggested we ask members to donate to the account. We will probably send a letter requesting help in bringing this account into a level of a balanced budget.

We discussed an evening meeting pot luck dinner for members and spouses and inviting friends and acquaintances we’d like to have join our club. Joan and Marv D will look for a place to hold this event.

Linda Sneddon from Beaverton Together was this morning’s speaker. It is a coalition of partners against substance abuse with the goal of reducing smoking and drinking among our school children. The partners include:

Beaverton School District
Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District
Department of Human Services
Westside Police Activities League
Beaverton Police Department
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney
Washington County Sheriff’s Office
Jesuit High School
Washington County Commission on Children & Families
LifeWorks NW
Beaverton Valley Times

They sponsor Prom Perfect programs and have in the past been involved in getting the PAL Club off the ground and those big children’s parades over to the Park and Rec. District involving thousands of kids. They have compiled interesting statistics showing much lower involvement in drinking and smoking than most people believe. And it has been dropping over the years. They will be partnering with a Cristmas tree farm this year to raise funds. There is a U-Cut farm out near the Mountaindale exit off Hwy 26 and a tree lot at Oaks Park which includes a mini train ride with a tree purchase.

BeaBull from 11-5

2010-11-10T19:42:00.000-08:00

A quick reminder that our Board Meeting is scheduled for Monday at 6:30 PM in Beaverton's Resource Center where the PAL Club is located. And I'd like to thank Secretary Bob for compiling Thursday morning's meeting minutes so quickly which I'm sure you've all read under the caption "Newsletter"on our Internet web site at: http://beavertonoptimist.webs.com/index.htm.

I also wanted to remind everyone about our Murray Rd. cleanup scheduled Saturday Nov. 13th. We'll meet in the Kmart parking lot at 8:30 AM. Thanks again to Gene and Marv who made the arrangements.

There was a misunderstanding during our Thursday meeting where my instructions to Barry, our secret greeter, were taken out of context. In a concern for his health due to the prevalence of flu and colds, and the fact my daughter-in-law and my grandchildren are sick with these bugs, I mentioned to him that he needn't go around shaking everyone's hand. This was mischaracterized as sneaky! My only motive was to protect the health of our Essay Contest Chairman. (Glad I could clear this up.)

Jenn Wenquist

Barry did get a chance to explain to our speaker, Jenn Winquist, about the $2,500 first prize towards college. This year's topic is: "How my education is the key to a successful future." As an Aloha High School counselor, she can help us spread the word around about the scholarship.

Again, I don't want to beat up on dead horses but, a nice picture of Jenn with Wally's arm about her because he's known her since she was 12, appears on our web site located at: www.Beavertonoptimist.webs.com.
Speaking of pictures, our newest member Joan invited her friend, Marcia Paige, to visit us Thursday so I hope everyone shook her hand and made her feel welcome. Her picture can also be seen on our web site conveniently located under the caption, "Photo Gallery." That album is titled Aloha's Homeless Kids because that is what Jenn spoke about. You may also look at the other albums if you want. Marcia sat next to Susan who won this weeks raffle and was probably surprised at Susan's little victory dance over her win. At least Susan was more gracious than Joe who insisted upon being paid his winnings from the week before last which I accidentally forgot because of our celebration of Vern's 90th birthday what with the cake and all.
Vern thanked everyone and was pleased to report that the balloons were still flying. Dick had to sing happy birthday to himself and Marv made everyone sing to him and I think they were a little disappointed about the lack of balloons for them.

Dick seemed very pleased last night at the CPO 6 meeting where it was announced that Washington County was the only county in Oregon to be awarded $2,000,000 by the federal departments of Transportation and Housing and Urban Development and will also get funds from Metro to study and come up with plans for the economic development of our Aloha-Reedville area. It will be a three year project with the Town Center on 185th and TV Hwy coordinating with Hillsboro on transportation and housing and BIKE paths and this is Commissioner Dicks area. This was just approved two days or so ago and the County staff is already swinging into action. They need lots of community input.

If you were to be uncertain about upcoming events, did I mention the helpful Calendar section on our Club's web site maintained by Wally located at www.Beavertonoptimist.webs.com. You can even look up info on the club's Essay Contest on that very same web site.

Jenn brought a list of needs for the homeless students at Aloha High which I'll attach as a PDF file if my printer cooperates. To reach her to offer help with supplies or perhaps as a tutor her email is jennifer_winquist@beaverton.k12.or.us.

Happy Birthday Vern!

2010-10-28T22:21:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful celebration we had today in honor of Vern Williams's 90th birthday. Vern is a charter member of the Beaverton Optimist Club and has been with us since February 2, 1967. Please enjoy our slideshow of the party. Slideshow courtesy of Alan Zehntbauer.

A busy Saturday in pictures

2010-09-18T18:54:00.000-07:00

Will & Jeannie Moton and Joan Andersen-Wells ran our food booth at the Farmer's Market today.

Proceeds are donated to the Candlelighters to benefit children with cancer.

And on to the Beaverton Parade. Gene Grosse was color guard and Cmdr. Marv Doty and his American Legion led today's Beaverton Parade.

Vern Williams drove Washington County Commissioner Dick Schouten in Vern's classic car. Oh, and Conner Moton marched as part of the Beaverton High School Band.

Photos by Alan Zehntbauer.

BeaBull from August 26

2010-08-27T09:59:00.000-07:00

After our Pledge of Allegiance, Chaplain Wally gave our invocation and wondered what happened on this day in 1939? He mentioned something about sports. Sheriff Steve ran our raffle and Joan won and will collect $7.00 next Thursday. Bob Arneson claims everyone shook his hand. What’s the point in having secret greeters in this overly friendly club? Wally also seeks our blood for his blood drive.

I accidentally looked over the shoulder of this gal in the grocery checkout and she was viewing this picture in a magazine of two apparently naked people covered in blood. I couldn’t stand it and asked what was going on and found out we were dealing with vampires. Sorry Wally, but this picture may stay with me for some time. Anyway…back to history.

My radio reminded me that only five years ago Katrina wiped out New Orleans. Ninety years ago today, the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was signed, granting women everywhere, in the states, the right to vote. So what did Wally pick to remind us about in 1939 you might ask? Television that’s what! A baseball game was broadcast to someone for the first time who must have had a set. (I’m thinking an older fat man who owned his own ball club perhaps?)

Since we’re talking history here: Beaverton History Center

Located at 12412 SW Broadway, our new
center will open its doors on July 31st.
Hours are noon to 4pm Tues, Thurs & Sat.
Our first exhibit is about the Atfalati-Kalapuya natives who were here a long time before Augustus Fanno and Lawrence Hall arrived in 1847. Learn about how they lived, what they ate and see some of the stone tools and hand woven baskets that they made. All this and more are on display.

Lillian has arranged for Washington County’s Sheriff to come talk next Thursday probably about our upcoming levy to have patrols drive thru our neighborhood. Bob Primrose announced he was on the way to the hospital to welcome a new granddaughter this morning. I tried to match him with my granddaughter due on the 31^st.

Henry Truax drove up from Albany to share our impressions of the Pacific NW District Optimist Convention. He had agreed to be our delegate so we could vote for the Governor Elect. Bill French from our own Zone 4 Hillsboro Club won on the first vote. He had traveled around and met with 75% of our Clubs to ask for their vote. It is a four year commitment. Gay Enyeart did a masterful job of putting his name in contention for the job. And she agreed to visit Beaverton and help motivate us a bit and share her knowledge as a Past Governor.

We showed Governor Linda the brochure which Jeannie Moton designed for our Club. She would like to have Jeannie send her a copy in a format which other clubs could borrow and use as an information handout and publicity piece. International Vice President Mark Weinsoff sends his greetings to Jeannie and says they are still providing a bag of goodies to the children who have cancer at the hospital which Jeannie put together in California.

We learned that, as of the moment, we are the number one District in the West. Our Governor to be, Ed Murphy has developed a strategic plan for the District which includes forming an under 40 years old advisory board to mitigate all the grey hair he sees and to get young blood committed to revitalizing the organization. Danny Rogers, OI’s International President got a video camera to play with and there is a 5 minute You Tube tape of the Convention available. There are also pictures of Meriwether Lewis in uniform and other notables who attended the costume breakfast and evening barbeque in the park along the Columbia River.

PNW District Convention fun

2010-08-25T10:01:00.000-07:00

Pictures from the District Convention taken by Lt. Governor and Beaverton Optimist Club Member Alan Zehntbauer

Opti BeaBull July 29, 2010

2010-08-02T17:20:00.001-07:00

Facing an empty podium and missing leader, Marv D stepped up to the challenge and led us in a flag salute and invocation. Now we could eat! Since there was no speaker, I was selected to pick a raffle winner because of being too cheap to enter. I lost my concentration and selected Joe Coss as the $5.50 winner. Sheriff Steve handed Treasurer Joe the entire pot of money which he promptly stuck in his pocket. This still doesn’t seem right to me? The rest of the meeting was comprised of announcements and info sharing.

Bob Arneson reported 27 of our Scouts were over at Camp Meriwether with seven adults. There are now about 42 boys in the group and a new Scout Leader is taking over as our last Scout Master’s son earned his Eagle and is headed of to college I suppose.

Marv D and Franklin are talking about hooking up a flatbed to Jack’s new truck and entering this in Beaverton’s Parade as an Optimist float. Now all we need is PAL Club kids and Scouts and lots of candy to throw and perhaps a Commissioner or two with lots of signage.

Speaking of Commissioners, Dick has located enough helpers to man his bridge and keep traffic flowing during Bridge Pedal on Aug. 8^th. Joe Coss raised his hand several meetings ago so expect to see him as you pedal by.

Dusty says they have over 100 cars entered in the T-Hills Classic at the Rec. Center and Gary is polishing up his MG to be one of them I think.

Gary also briefed us on his second love, miniature airplanes. The Oregon Miniature Aircraft Squadron (OMAS) will be putting on an airshow off Kansas Rd at the Lewis Farms on Sat. & Sun. There is also a pond so there will be radio controlled boats as well. He will be selling his plane do to his problem with his legs.

We adjourned a bit early.

Opti BeaBull July 15, 2010

2010-07-17T09:18:00.000-07:00

After our pledge to the flag, Wally led the invocation. Then he wanted to know what happened this day in 1903? Steve collected $5.00 for winning last week’s raffle and Dave Chrisman won today and will collect $6.50 next week. Jocelyn from the PAL Club came to thank us for our donation. Bruce reminded us that on Sept. 25th our Installation Banquet is scheduled. Hopefully we’ll have volunteers who accept the challenge of leading our group to “bring out the best in kids.”

Bob P brought blank Committee Budget Submission Requests which will determine next year’s projects we want to get involved in supporting children. If there is a project you feel we need to be doing, now is the time to write it up and submit your idea. Scott Thompson and Marv Doty volunteered to help Primrose audit the books for next year.

Alan invited everyone to attend the Pacific NW Optimist Convention in Richland Washington Aug 19th – 21st. Danny Rogers, the International President will be there. For more information posted by our Governor got to: http://www.pnwdistrictoptimist.com/

This was definitely a week for birthdays! Susan Nordstrom, Barry Baxter, Tony Montez and Jackie Pasciak all had them but only Tony made it to the meeting and sang to us. Perhaps that was because he also presented the program? Tom & Megan Baxter dropped by with their daughter, probably to sing to Barry? Tony had a reconstructed video of the plane hitting birds and ditching in the Hudson which was interesting. He also tapped into Wikileaks with footage of the helicopters killing the journalists reporting in Iraq. The TV camera was mistaken for some sort of RPG launcher. Oh well…

Last week’s birthday boy was Gary Mahone and he treated us with a rendition of happy birthday on his Jew’s harp. We also learned the Vern’s 92 year old sister passed away last week. Today Bruce left early to arrange for bike helmets for children whose moms are on the WIC Program. Next week Steve Crowthers is expecting a birthday cake.

Wally and the Public Safety Chaplains invited us to an Appreciation Dessert at the Hillsboro Comfort Inn Thursday, July 22nd, 7-8:30 pm. RSVP 503-643-8686. His Chaplains are also selling tickets to the Safeway Classic LPGA golf tournament which raises money for charities. Last year’s program donated $1,000,000 for local Portland charities. It is scheduled Aug 16th thru Aug 22nd. Wally is also offering a class on communication.

Back to July 15, 1903, Franklin would have been delighted because the Ford Motor Company took its first order from a Chicago dentist for an $850 Model A with a two-cylinder, eight-horsepower engine which was the most powerful to be found in a passenger car. I thought model T’s came first!?

by Alan Zehntbauer

Photos: Top - Jocelyn from PAL says thank you. Bottom - Tom and megan Baxter and daughter.

Opti BeaBull July 1, 2010

2010-07-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

Noel led our flag pledge and Wally gave the invocation. Dick S. won the raffle. So things started out normal but we had no speaker so we turned on ourselves. It was reported that Bob P missed the last meeting because he slept in. Apparently he slept all day because he didn’t make the evening get together either. He attempted to avoid a fine by telling us about the glories of night golf at Kilarney. You hit a ball which lights up and aim it at a hole illuminated by a glow stick with the course sort of outlined by these sticks. Meanwhile, he drives around on a golf cart trying to sell you beer. You are desperately watching your ball while not walking into the lake and hoping you can get to it before it goes dark. We ignored his story and fined him anyway. He plans on bringing budgeting sheets next meeting to get even and so we can plan for next year.

Wally asked what happen on this day in 1863? Many knew because Schouten talked about visiting Gettysburg after picking up Marijke, his youngest daughter, from Cornell College. She has passed her first round of Foreign Service exams. Her older sister, Erika, is working on her master’s degree while working at a paid internship at Holly Cross Hospital in Washington DC. The parents took pity on the two girls and helped get some furnishings for their apartment.

Wally has tickets to women’s golf which the Chaplains are selling to raise money. He says the Teen Center in Sherwood is interested in our Optimist Internet Safety Program so we’ll explore together whether it will work for them. And Wally will review our web site situation and help decide whether to go with the Governor’s kind offer or muddle thru on our current site.

Patsy Ackley was able to visit this morning. It’s been awhile since we’ve seen her. Besides working overtime, she has been caring for parents and visiting the Golden Crown a known hangout for Karaoke.

Scott Thompson returned from Maui and an impending round of baseball and soccer with the kids. There was a report on Richard Hose who has joined Dusty for Poker Evenings and is getting shots in his ailing knee and perhaps has accepted a full time job where he works. Does this mean no more afternoon golf or biking with the Senior Rollers?

Jack reports hearing from Steve Wabnitz who has landed a job as a GSA looking after 40 buildings and his wife Jennifer is teaching. Jack is nostalgic for the old days when we helped run the Beaverton Parade and wants us to reserve a place in it throwing out candy to the kids with Commissioner Schouten waving and poor Vern having to get his old convertible out and driving these clowns around. Vern seemed a bit uncertain!? Anyway, it is an idea with a little polishing to get the Optimists out in the public. Now if Marv can march his Veterans of Foreign Wars behind the car…

Gary read us the Declaration of Independence or at least told us about his copies and Lillian mentioned blood drives and led us in the Creed.

by Alan Zehntbauer

Evening meeting supports PAL

2010-06-26T11:09:00.000-07:00

The evening meeting on June 24 at Chevy's to support the Police Activities League (PAL) was a lot of fun. PAL received 25% of all food revenue every time PAL was mentioned. Nice fundraiser!

Club Bulletin - June 24, 2010

2010-06-26T09:24:00.000-07:00

Bruce & Wally handle meeting formalities and I failed to win the raffle again. I was so disappointed I forgot who did. Sheriff Steve announced that today is his two month anniversary of his remarriage to Dixie. Chaplain Wally wondered what happened on this day in 1948? He also announced that on this Saturday if you eat at the Panda Express in Sherwood from 10:30 AM to 8:30 PM, 20% of your purchase will be donated to the Public Safety Chaplaincy! Let's support Wally and bring our flyers. It's located by the Target Store south of 99W just off of Tualatin Sherwood Road. (21155 SW Baier Way #113)

Lori Buffington stepped up and did the calligraphy on Joan's new member certificate so now she can be official. Now if only Bruce remembers to bring it to this evening's meeting? Tony reported that the six year old David for whom he is riding in Candlelighters has been moved to hospice and won't make it to the Sep. ride. Tony still needs donations to help the other families who have children struggling with cancer.

Gary M arranged a martial art demonstration for us this morning on the art of taekwondo, the Korean amalgamation of fighting with feet and fist. We watched Jeremy, his grandson, break wood slabs with his foot as well as spar and practice various patterns with his trainer, Master Jim Null. Jeremy has achieved 2nd degree level black belt and Jim is a level 6 black belt. The 25th of June in 1950 was the beginning of the Korean War so this was an appropriate topic this morning.

Wally wondered what happened on the 24th in 1948. The Russians blockaded Berlin cutting off rail and road access to the part of the city occupied by the western powers. This lead to the Berlin Airlift to bring in food and supplies with over 200,000 flights carrying 13,000 tons of daily necessities. It was one of the 1st major international crises. June is a tough month.