Butler Optimist Club Press Release: Optimist Banquet

Mike Hill presenting Alan Mundey with Governor’s Choice Award

Lucille Mundey receiving the Optimist of the Year Award from Linda Mareth and Mike Hill.

 Linda Mareth presenting Meghan Newsome with the Rookie of the Year Award

Butler Optimist Club officers being installed

The Butler Optimist Club held its annual awards banquet on Saturday, October 19, 2013, at 6:00 p.m. in the Youth Building at the Bates County Fairgrounds.  The theme for the evening was the “Chili Bowl.” Members were encouraged to bring a pot of chili or soup.  Voting for the best recipe was made by placing a monetary donation in a jar in front of what members thought was the best.  
 
Past club president Mike Hill welcomed the group.  Sean Cook led the pledge to the U.S. flag and Jason Lawrence gave the invocation.  After the meal, Mike Hill and Linda Mareth presided over the award presentations.  The following individuals were honored for their Optimist achievements this past year:
 
            Optimist Friend of Youth:  Wilson Tire and Sonic Drive-In
            Rookie of the Year:  Meghan Newsome
            Governor’s Choice Award:  Alan Mundey
            President’s Pride Award:  Alan Mundey
            Secretary’s Award:  Linda Mareth
            Treasurer’s Award:  Lucille Mundey
            Club President’s Award:  Mike Hill
            Optimist of the Year:  Lucille Mundey
 
After the award presentations, Theresa Evans, Optimist West Central District Lt. Governor, installed the 2013-2014 officers: President, Randy Kash; 1st Vice President, Dillon Deems; 2nd Vice President, Linda Mareth; Secretary, Meghan Newsome; and Treasurer, Lucille Mundey.  Serving on the Board of Directors are 3-year board members Darin Jones and Lynne McLain; 2-year board members Dana Arnold; 1-year board members Tyler Green, Doug McGuire and Mike Hill.  
 
After Bud Mareth led the group in the Optimist pledge, results of the silent auction were announced.  Members also participated in a pie auction and a live auction.  All money raised will go to help the Butler Optimists in supporting local youth programs.  The evening ended with music by Mike Kershner (M-Pulse).