The newly installed officers of the Jackson Noon Optimist Club are (l-r) Kim Anderson, secretary/treasurer; Chris McReynolds, vice president; Phyllis Tallent, president; and Jodean Holshouser, vice president. The newly elected officers were installed at the club's appreciation banquet held recently.

The Noon Optimist Club of Jackson held its annual installation and award ceremonies at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Jackson on Sept. 28.

Don Sievers, international vice president elect, officially installed the new officers and board of directors. Presiding over club activities for the 1998-99 club year is Phyllis Tallent, assisted by Chris McReynolds and Jodean Holshouser, vice presidents. Kim Anderson will again be serving as the club's treasurer and will also assume the duties of secretary.

Those who will serve two-year terms as board members are Lisa Craft, Patty Riesenbichler and Connie Werner. Board members who still have one year remaining on their terms are Penny Johns, Sally Pierce and Teresa Popp. Sally Pierce will serve as the club's chaplain, while Sue Jones and Beverly Nelson serve as the newsletter editors.

Jackson mayor Paul Sander addressed the club, expression appreciation to the club for its service to the community and dedication to the youth of the area. The Optimist Club sponsors the Little Indians Flag Football, girls' basketball, Safety City USA, Kids' Day in the Park, Harvest Day games for children at Pioneer Orchard, as well as numerous Optimist International programs for youth. The club has provided safety training and more than 1,400 bicycle helmets for children through their Safety City classes.

Gene and Sharee Galnore were presented certificates of appreciation for their hours of assistance and dedication given to assist the Optimist Club with the girls' basketball program and Safety City USA. Sharee was instrumental in helping club members with the development of their miniature town built in Jackson City Park. Gene assists the club with their successful basketball program by securing gymnasiums, coaches and helping with registration.

Robyn Hosp provided the entertainment for the evening with a medley of songs. Brownie Troop #20 presented a flag ceremony and Andrea Penzel, a member of the troop, sang the national anthem.

Sue Jones received the Optimist of the Year award. She has been a member of the Noon Optimist Club since 1992 and has served on the board of directors. She also has held the office of secretary and bulletin editor and has co-chaired the Kids' Day in the Park.

Jones also has taught numerous Safety City classes and is one of the organizers of the girls' basketball program.

"The club appreciates all of the time and energy that Sue has given to our club's purpose, to be a friend of youth, as well as our many projects," said Beverly Nelson, out-going president.

Other club members honored for outstanding service were Deena Allen, Kim Anderson, LaDonia Beggs and Mary Purcell. Each were presented plaques in appreciation for their service to the club and community.

Special guests for this year's event included Mayor Paul Sander, Lt. Governor Al Franke and his wife Judy, and past club presidents Geneva Hartle, Marcia Thompson, Mary Sue Oldham, Carol Weinrich, Anita Sievers and LaDonia Beggs.