Optimists celebrate with $1 million pledge

An organization that started over a cup of coffee has now made a $1 million pledge to fund childhood cancer research.

The Optimist Club of Cape Girardeau, also known as the Cape Evening Optimist Club, is a service organization celebrating its 78th year in the community. The group now sponsors Tour de Cape, Respect for Law and Youth in Government, as well as Student of the Month awards and essay contests and an annual soap box derby and basketball and soccer leagues for children.

While sitting at a cafe on Independence and Main streets, a group of men thought the town needed another service organization with a stronger commitment to the community. The club was chartered on Oct. 21, 1926, and officers were elected. The first president was William H. Kiehne.

The current incarnation of the club is led by Charlie Harrison, who has pledged her time to advocate for youth in community projects under a theme of "I believe." Other officers include president-elect Nancy Bone, vice president Mike Hurst, secretary Jody Simmons and treasurer Florence Hurst.

This year the group plans to sponsor a bowling league at West Park Lanes and has committed to raising $1 million for Optimist International, the club's parent organization, to fund research for the cure to childhood cancers.

Other plans include sponsoring oncology playrooms for children at Saint Francis Medical Center and Southeast Missouri Hospital.

The club meets at 6 p.m. every Thursday at Port Cape Girardeau Restaurant and visitors are always welcome. Individuals interested in joining the club may contact Harrison by e-mail at charlie10harrison@sbcglobal.net.