The UW-Whitewater/Community Optimist Club kicked off their new year with a celebration on October 3 at 841 Brewhouse. Many members attended including Lieutenant Governor, Diane Matuszak. Food and laughter were shared among members, along with a few memories of the late Lou Zahn, who was an active, upbeat member who left a positive impact on the Whitewater community.

New member, Paul Waelchli was inducted, along with new Optimist board members. Al Hutchison has stepped into the role of the new Optimist president. In addition, Joyce Hutchison has taken the role of secretary, while Paul Waelchli and Duane Dickens have accepted roles as board members.

The UW-Whitewater/Community Optimist Club looks forward to another productive year of “bringing our community together to serve our youth.” The Optimist Club will be sponsoring Youth Appreciation Week in mid-November and Breakfast With Santa on December 7.

If you are interested in joining the UW-Whitewater/Community Optimist Club, please visit our blog (http://blogs.uww.edu/uwwcommunityoptimist/) for more information.