Erin Dickerson’s Prayer
1 Timothy 4:12 tells us “Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.”
Lord,
Throughout the Bible, we have examples of young people doing amazing things. David was a boy when he defeated Goliath. Jeremiah was 14 when You called him and Samuel was 12. Josiah was only 8 when he became king.
Today, as we celebrate our youth, help us to remember the amazing things our children and youth are capable of, to never doubt their abilities, to foster their creativity, and to support their passions and dreams.
Amen.
Announcements
WDTN Article and Video about CNO
KaJéza Hawkins and Trey Brown from WDTN News were at tree lot delivery day and at lunch on November 26, 2024. They took some videos and interviewed members.
You can read the article and view the video that was on TV here.
Poinsettia Sale Success: 150 Sold and Delivered!
Craig Dring thanked everyone who purchased a Poinsettia from the TOP Optimist Club. They sold 150 poinsettias and most were picked up today. CNO buys about three quarters of the Poinsettias. The profit from the sales is around $1200.
Tree Lot Update: Only 350 Trees Left!
Greg Griffin announced that there are 350 trees left on the tree lot. 60% of the trees have been sold so far. Half of the wreaths have been sold and 35 door sprays. Thanks to everyone that has or will help on the lot. What a great way to connect with the community.
Tree Lot Training: Please Save Cut-Off Tree Branches for Reuse
Gail Aiken reminds everyone not to discard the branches trimmed from customers’ trees that help them get trees into stands at their homes. We use these branches to make door sprays. Any excess is collected by Centerville Florist, who support us in return. To show our appreciation, we donate the extra branches to them for creating decorations for their customers. Please pile the branches just behind the tree will call area.
Adopt-a-Family Brings Joy to 45 Kids
Christy Gariety announced that the Adopt-a-Family program was a success, covering 45 kids. She and her co-chair, Sue Jessee, thanked all members who participated. In addition, they collected over $1,500 in cash donations that will be used to purchase food for the families.
TOP Soccer Celebrates 25th Season and Honors Coach of the Year
Greg Wasmund introduced several members of the TOP Soccer board who were present to thank the members of CNO for their continued support.
This year, TOP Soccer had 147 players participating, which aligns with their typical annual participation of around 150 players. Between coaches and players, over 650 people are involved in the program each year. This season was particularly special as it marked the 25th active season of TOP Soccer. Special thanks go to Bob and Sheila Glavin for founding this incredible program.
Greg announced that Bob Glavin has been honored as the State and National TOP Soccer Coach of the Year.
The program will start up again next August, and we look forward to another successful season.
Today is Giving Tuesday
Bill Stone, the CNO Optimist International Foundation Representative, reminds us that today is Giving Tuesday. Please consider supporting the Optimist International Foundation and its mission. Click here to donate.
President Paul Boeckman’s Eventful Return – The Bell Is Lost Again
After a two-week hiatus, President Paul Boeckman made his grand return to our weekly meeting. Eager to resume his duties, he barely had time to ring the ceremonial bell before it vanished—possibly setting a new club record for the quickest bell disappearance! It happened even before the announcements began. Fortunately, Paul kept a firm grip on the gavel, guarding it like a seasoned pro. Despite the bell’s swift escape, Paul’s good humor and leadership kept the meeting on track. Welcome back, Paul—looks like the bell missed you so much it couldn’t wait to play hide-and-seek!
Tree Lot Videos
You can view the videos that Greg Griffin showed us today. Both videos are short.
Check out the time lapse video of tree delivery day. Greg Griffin thanked Jack Langer for the footage.
Check out the video of the tree lot how it looked as the tree lot opened.
An Unforgettable Birthday Serenade for Fran Sheehan
Today, we gathered to celebrate a very special occasion: Fran Sheehan’s birthday! As is our beloved tradition, Bob Duffy took the helm to lead us in a rendition of “Happy Birthday” that could only be described as… unforgettable.
Oh boy, was it bad. Was it the holiday spirit channeled through Bob? Nope, that can’t be it—unless the holiday spirit has a mischievous sense of humor and a tin ear. Our singing was so delightfully dreadful that even the golf balls outside seemed to veer off course in protest.
Fran, here’s wishing you a fantastic trip around the sun! Thank you for all you do for our club and for bravely enduring our unique vocal stylings. The holidays feel a little extra special now—especially after that performance.
Youth Appreciation Awards 2024-2025
Paul Boeckman introduced the coordinating principal of Centerville High School, John Carroll. Carroll introduced guidance counselors who presented three CHS students with the annual CNO Youth Appreciation Award.
From John Carroll:
First, I would like to thank the Centerville Noon Optimists for providing this opportunity to present today and honor three of the most outstanding students from Centerville High School.
Since 1957, Optimist Clubs have recognized youth for their talents in all areas of our school program and their service to our community. Today, I have the honor of introducing three outstanding members of the CHS class of 2024 awarded with this year’s Youth Appreciation Award. I honestly can’t wait for you to hear about these students as I know they embody the values of the Centerville Noon Optimist Club.
All three of these young adults have an extremely strong commitment to both their school and their community. They have excelled in rigorous academic programs while also demonstrating exceptional leadership and community service.
I would like to make some introductions of guests joining us to celebrate. Please welcome our CHS administration and counseling staff:
- East Unit Principal – Jack Durnbaugh and Counselor Josh Cabay
- South Unit Principal – Jen Riegel and Counselor Beth Buck
- From West Unit Principal – Jeff Wolff and Counselor Samantha Stingley
- Centerville City Schools Superintendent Jon Wesney
For students and their guests, I would like to share a little about our club. The motto of all Optimist Clubs is “Friend of Youth,” and this club strives to uphold that motto by providing numerous activities for the youth of our community.
Examples of this support include:
- Halloween Haunted Trail
- Fishing Derby
- Oratorical Contests
- Sponsorship of Youth Clubs like Jr. Optimist and Octagon Club and many other activities
In keeping with this motto, each year the Centerville Noon Optimist Club also hosts this Youth Appreciation event to recognize young people who are outstanding citizens and actively involved in their schools, places of worship, and communities.
I am going to invite each counselor to the podium to introduce this year’s Youth Appreciation Award winners.
Madhav Verma – East unit
From Josh Cabay:
First, thanks for having us and giving us this opportunity to recognize some really amazing students today.
It is always difficult to choose a student to honor at this event because we have so many good kids at CHS who go above and beyond to help our school and community, but this year, someone made my choice pretty easy.
It is my pleasure to introduce Madhav Verma, a truly exceptional student whose achievements extend far beyond the classroom. Madhav is not only an outstanding scholar, consistently excelling in well, pretty much any class he decides to take, but also a dedicated individual who has made a remarkable impact in our community.
Through his extensive involvement in community service, Madhav has shown an unwavering commitment to making the world around him a better place. Whether it’s volunteering over 800 hours at Kumon, tutoring and managing about 150 students, working with Operation Smile to raise funds that provide essential surgeries for children and young adults with facial deformities, helping them lead more normal lives, or mentoring younger students in our district through Chembuddies – a club that helps elementary students get excited about chemistry, Madhav approaches every opportunity with passion and a genuine desire to help others.
Along with keeping up with all of his classes and all of his volunteer work, Madhav is very involved in clubs and academic organizations in the school. Just to mention a few because he has a very long list – Speech and Debate, Science Bowl – where he is a captain and competed at the regional level, and Elk Connectors – where he helps Freshman students find their own path to success in high school.
We are incredibly fortunate to have someone like Madhav in our community, whose hard work, kindness, and dedication inspire those around him. Please join me in recognizing Madhav Verma for all of his incredible contributions.
Madhav spoke:
I’m very grateful to be here today. I’ve moved around a lot throughout my life. I first came to America in 2016, but I went back and forth several times before returning again just as I was about to start high school. When I came back, I didn’t know much about how things worked here or what was expected of me as a high school student.
I’m incredibly thankful for my teachers, friends, and family who supported me through those challenges and helped me find my way. They’ve given me so many opportunities, and I couldn’t have done it without them. Thank you.
Cha’Miah Phoenix – South Unit
From Beth Buck:
Determined, resilient, forward thinking, and empathetic are all adjectives to describe Cha’Miah Phoenix. I’ve known Cha’Miah for the past four years as her school counselor, and during this time, I have witnessed her grow into a self-assured and reflective student, ready to take on the next chapter of her life.
Academically, Cha’Miah has always sought to challenge herself. Enrolling in rigorous courses such as Honors AP Psychology, Honors AP Government, Honors AP Statistics, and Wright State University courses, Cha’Miah has consistently maintained an impressive GPA well above a 4.0.
Cha’Miah’s journey is one that inspires and highlights her diverse interests and leadership abilities. As a varsity football cheerleader and student council representative, she has shown her ability to work collaboratively and inspire those around her. Her role as President of the Black Cultural Alliance speaks volumes about her dedication to promoting inclusivity and understanding within our school community. Furthermore, her passion for language and culture is evident through her involvement in both the Korean and French Club at CHS. Outside of school, Cha’Miah has somehow found the time to intern for a criminal defense attorney and job shadow a Patient Care Technician and nurse.
Cha’Miah’s commitment to service is truly commendable. Cha’Miah is an Elk Connector and on the Care Team, where she mentors and supports younger students. Her work with Operation Smile and Sending Sunshine reveals a deep-seated empathy and desire to make a positive impact in peoples’ lives. However, it is her volunteering at Miami Valley Hospital that she finds most rewarding. Spending four hours a week there, Cha’Miah has not only provided comfort to patients but has also gained valuable insights into the medical field and about herself.
Cha’Miah’s experiences thus far have not been without its challenges. She has bravely navigated through struggles, emerging stronger and more self-reliant. Her journey of self-discovery has taught her life lessons about resilience and the importance of self-confidence.
Cha’Miah’s career goal is to be a lawyer one day, where I know she will advocate for others and make a positive lasting impact.
Cha’Miah, I’m so proud of you and I can’t wait to see all that you’re going to accomplish. Just like you said in your college essay, YOU ARE ENOUGH!
Please join me in congratulating Cha’Miah Phoenix!
Cha’Miah spoke:
I’m very grateful for the opportunity to speak to all of you today. Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. While these are challenges I face in my day-to-day life, they don’t define me—they’re just a part of who I am, and I’ve learned to embrace and accept them.
I’ve moved around a lot. My first language isn’t English. My father was in the military, so we lived in Japan for a time. Afterward, my mom and I moved back to Ohio, and since then, we’ve lived in many different places.
Despite these challenges, I’ve never let my circumstances hold me back or serve as an excuse not to strive for greatness. Even with limited opportunities, I’ve worked to create something meaningful. This is the same message I share with my elementary school students: Embrace what you have, because even if you come from humble beginnings, you can create something truly remarkable.
Lexie Lehman – West Unit
From Samantha Stingley:
Every year, we have the unique privilege of recognizing one of West Unit students at this event. When I think of service, character, and optimism, Lexi immediately was the only student in my mind. Simply put, Lexi is a wonderful example of what a commitment to humility, kindness, and character look like.
What you should also know about Lexi is I have had the privilege of watching her grow from a more timid freshman to a thoughtful and eloquent senior. I can honestly say that every conversation and interaction that I have had with Lexi over the last four years has been positive and affirming for me, highlighting that today’s young people are on the right track. She has spent the last two years working with our Early Childhood Education program at Primary Village North as well as taking dual credit college courses. She recently came to me with the proposition to graduate early, this December, which she was more than able to do with her academic record. She is set to spend a significant portion of her final semester of high school on a mission in Central America, returning just in time for prom and graduation.
While most of our students will eventually become mature, responsible, and thoughtful citizens, I am thoroughly convinced that Lexi has already evolved well ahead of her peers. True, she’s a funny, personable, outgoing teenager, but she also possesses a maturity, integrity, and selflessness that is so rare for her age. She is just an outstanding individual, and a great representative of Centerville High School
Lexie spoke:
I want to sincerely thank everyone for this award. It truly means the world to me. When people think of the Optimist Club, they often think of positivity and encouragement. For me, this award represents so much more—it embodies the belief that hard work truly pays off.
I also want to share how much my faith means to me. My faith is what drives me and keeps me going, no matter what. It’s inspiring to see how prayer and faith are valued, and it touches my heart deeply.
John Carroll’s Closing Thoughts
From John Carroll:
In closing, I would just like to say that it is a joy to work with all the students at CHS. The three students honored today have set themselves apart during their time at CHS. I am sure you will all agree that their futures are very bright! Might I insert a gratuitous plug and state that you would all make outstanding Optimist members in the future! If your journey returns you to the area keep the Centerville Noon Optimists in mind!
I want the three of you to know that, when I asked counselors who we should recognize, your names were offered without hesitation! I hope you accept that as a huge acknowledgement to who you are and what you have meant to our school and community. Congratulations and thank you!
President Paul’s Quote of the Week
“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” – Abraham Lincoln
Welcome Guests
| Guest | Guest Of |
| Alisha Murray | Mike Bevis |
| Erin Giffin | Ken Peacock |
New Member Readings and Inductions
| Name | Sponsor | 1st 2nd 3rd Reading or Induction |
| Brandon Ward | Donna Huss | 1st Reading |
Happy Bucks
| Member | Reason |
| Andy Higgins | His mother-in-law just turned 97 and finished crocheting him a six foot black-and-gold Pittsburgh Steelers blanket. |
| Stephanie Llacuna | She encourages everyone to remember about giving Tuesday. If you are looing for a place to donate, she said the Therapeutic Riding institute is always accepting donations. |
| Stephanie Llacuna | Her harp ensemble, the Harps of Grace, will be playing a holiday concert this Monday, December 9th at 7pm at Heritage Christian Church. |
| Don Stafford | He was happy that the UD Flyers won a pretty big game at the Maui tournament last week. |
| Julie Walling Noeth | A couple of months ago David Duncombe won 50/50 twice in a row. She asked how and he said that he always buys 8 for $5 and that we should all give a little more when we can. |
| Vida McDowell | Thank you to whoever brought the outdoor heater to the tree lot. It really helped with how cold it was over the weekend. |
| Paul Boeckman | He and other CNO members went to the funeral service for David Duncombe. He was truly a fine member of the greatest generation. David Ladd did a great job with the service. |
Sergeants at Arms
| Member | Infraction |
| Paul Boeckman | $25, Missed one of the UD basketball games at the Maui tournament last week. It was the game they won, so should he be banned from the tournament? Karl Frydryk was deputized and held a fine auction and said Paul would have to match. Karl won the auction at $25 and Paul matched it. It was EPIC! |
| Larry Lynde | He was wearing a fake name badge. Did he lose his real badge? |
| Don Kelley | He tried to get into the wrong car even after he was told it was not his car. |
Club Membership Anniversaries
| Member | Joined | Years |
| Roberta Taylor | December 6, 1995 | 29 |
| Paul Boeckman | December 9, 1994 | 30 |
| Roland Rapp | December 10, 2002 | 22 |
| Amy Creech | December 10, 2023 | 1 |
| Tia Papp | December 10, 2023 | 1 |
| Tom Novak | December 13, 1990 | 34 |
Birthdays
| Paul Bowell | December 3 |
| Fran Sheehan | December 3 |
| Beth Hall | December 4 |
| Joan Gruss | December 5 |
| Tia Papp | December 5 |
| Nancy Lehren | December 5 |
| Bill DeShurko | December 6 |
| Matt Somerlot | December 7 |
| Sarah Umbreit | December 7 |
| Jeff Umbreit | December 8 |
| Spencer Miller | December 9 |
| Patrick Arehart | December 10 |
| Megan Dalton | December 10 |
| Penny Culhane | December 11 |
| Erin Dickerson | December 12 |
| Arline Danial | December 14 |
| Dave Mitchell | December 15 |
| Bill Stone | December 16 |
CNO Donations – Since 2013
Click here to see a summary of donations the club has made since 2013
Thank You Notes Received
CLICK HERE to see the Thank You Notes received this week
Links to PowerPoint and Pictures
CLICK HERE to see the PowerPoint Slides from this week’s meeting