DOWNEY - Outgoing Optimist Club of Downey President Meredith Perkins was saluted for his leadership and commitment to the youth of the community at the club's annual installation dinner, which was held last week at the Rio Hondo Event Center.The event was attended by members of the Optimist Club and board members of Soroptimist International of Downey. Perkins, whose term ends September 30, is a former Downey mayor who has maintained a leadership role in community organizations such as the YMCA and The Arc of Los Angeles and Orange Counties. "Meredith worked very hard this year, and as a result, it was a very good year for the Optimist Club and the many programs we support that benefit Downey's youth," said incoming President Greg Waskul. He presented Perkins with a special plaque commemorating his highly successful year as president. "We want everyone to know what an incredible job you did, Meredith," Waskul said. "We are all very thankful for the tremendous effort you made on behalf of our members and our community. You took a sincere interest in each of us, and that we will never forget." Treasurer Steve Allen reported that the club's golf tournament made 30 percent more profit in 2012 than in the previous two years, a performance that Perkins said was made possible because of the excellent work of golf chair Mark Sauter. "Mark and his committee brought in many new golfers this year, He spearheaded a most successful tournament which allowed us to fund activities for the youth of our community." Club Board Member Roy Acker installed the new officers, who also included First Vice President Tom Burney, Second Vice President Bert Wootan, and the club's continuing board members. Waskul was also honored as Optimist of the Year by Perkins and presented with a framed scroll signed by Optimist International President Jack Creswell.

********** Published: September 13, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 22