11-21-24 Meeting

We had a visit from Scout Pack 173, by Sheryl Barham and her daughter Avey. They have about 35 scouts, from k-5th grade. They usually hike once a month, and camp out 4x’s a year. They will do the decorations for El Caldito Soup Kitchen. They also prepare ‘care bags’ for the Aristocrat Assisted Living Center.

 

 

 

 

Joel Holguin talked about the annual Essay Contest . The topic this year is “How Optimism has Paved My Way to Success.” Deadline is Feb. 2, and those from 3rd grade through high school can compete.

Our speaker today was from the store Tutti Bambini (www.meetlascruces.com/Tutti-Bambini-in-Las-Cruces.html, www.facebook.com/tuttibambinilc). Jeanne Kinsella talked about this gem in our community which resells kids clothing and toys to raise funds, and then gives away money, clothing, and toys to needy youth and families. Children can choose clothes for free, and they also have strollers, shoes, car seat, and furniture. They take donations of money and clothes. They have volunteers who wash all clothing and help put furniture together (like Mike Lieberman). They try and repair all toys that need it. They even have a golf tournament to help raise funds.

 

Angie Brown reminded us to save pull tabs… She has been doing a lot refreshmenterizing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11-14-24 Meeting

We had a great visit from Andrea Holguin and Grace, from Everybody Rides with Grace. They discussed increasing the size and impact of the Reduce the Carbon Footprint event (which happened on Oct. 8) and how they continue writing grants and raising funds so they can give away adaptive bicycles. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and it is always fun to have them visit. Everybody Rides with Grace is part of Velo Las Cruces. The next event is scheduled for Oct. 4, 2025. We have contributed in the past and they would like another donation from us ($500). Adaptive bicycles are about $3,000 a piece, and they said there are over 20 people needing one.

 

 

 

 

 

Tommy Esparza gave a recap of the Optimist District Meeting, held in Las Cruces. Several of our members attended and it was a good event.

We recognized Dave Thompson, Don Wilson, Fernie Franco, and Aletta Wilson for contributions to the club.

 

10-21-24 Notice

We heard from Don Wilson yesterday that Warren Noland passed on Sunday. Warren was a very active member until just a few months ago, and had been in the club for decades. This is a sad day for the club.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10-17-24 Meeting

[Notes from Angie] Good morning. Today’s Guest Speaker was Judge Conrad Perea. He spoke of different types of Treatments for Men and Women, Veterans and family Treatment. Our Club Creed really spoke to him about having strength in making hard choices and doing the right thing. Club member Mike gave the club an update on club member Sharon Grasse. She is out of the hospital now and getting help from some of our club members. She is receiving phone calls. Club member Gary checked with NMSU Archives and the department said that they would be Happy to take our club’s Archives. We will have to discuss this at the board meeting and vote on it. Club member Frank said the Hand Ball tournament went well this past weekend.