The "Manhattan Optimist Club Bulletin" Vol. 2026 #15 1-14-26
VOLUME 2026 JANUARY 14 NUMBER 15
President Kelly Karl welcomed the membership and guests and Jean Klassen presented a reflection. The flag salute followed.
Heather Peterson introduced Marcia Rozell, Director of Visit Manhattan. She is an avid outdoors adventure seeker who loves promoting Manhattan to the visitor. As the Director of Visit Manhattan, she leads the day-to-day activities of Manhattan’s lead tourism organization. Visit Manhattan is a division of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, and its activities are funded by transient guest taxes through a contract with the City of Manhattan.
Marcia reminded everyone about the Visit Manhattan magazine that is available in many locations as a travel guide for Manhattan visitors. The latest one can be downloaded at: Request a Visitors Guide | Manhattan Convention & Visitors Bureau or a paper copy can be requested. They have been utilizing the term “Manhappiness” in their promotion efforts.
“America 250” as well as “Kansas America 250” promotions have started to appear in the media. Manhattan and Riley County also will have events scheduled for the celebration. A city and county proclamation has been issued to let everyone know of the upcoming event. Some events will occur around our Kansas Day celebration. America 250 - Manhattan, KS A committee of about 30 is planning a local birthday party for the USA, however it will be held on an alternate date which won't compete with established fourth of July events. They are considering Flag Day, June 14th as a celebration day. A time capsule is also planned and they are seeking donations of small items to be placed in the capsule. Selection of items will be curated by the Historical Museum staff. They also would like to place a mural on a building. Johnny Kaw, in the City Park, will wear an Uncle Sam Hat during the celebration. On July 4th, buildings around the community will be lit up in red, white, and blue. Many other events are also under consideration.
Marcia also noted the FIFA World Cup competition held in 16 locations, with Kansas City as one location hosting six matches. The fan base will be traveling over the country to different locations, thus Manhattan hopes to attract some of those travelers. In addition, some residents of Kansas City may want to escape the city and perhaps have a relaxing vacation in Manhattan. The Chamber has a FIFA display on their window to help let everyone know of the upcoming event. They also are planning a “ManHATtrick!” promotion. A “hat-trick” is when one player scores three goals in a single soccer game. They are encouraging restaurants etc. to do promotions in groups of three as Manhattan's “ManHATtrick!” Manhattrick 2026 World Cup
GUESTS: Our speaker, Marcia Rozell.
Last year as president, Greg McCune pushed to recognize our club as an Honor Club. We have just received that recognition from Optimist International.
February 5th is Optimist International Day. Celebrate by wearing something with the Optimist logo.
There is a QR code available at the door during our meetings for ordering Optimist Merchandise – T-shirts, hats, sweatshirts etc. Also, a Link below:
companycasuals.com/ManhattanOptimistClub/start.jsp
February 7th is the Community Nonprofit Fair where all the nonprofits will be set up to share their information. This is an event where we can get the word out to others about the Manhattan Optimist Club. We need a couple of volunteers to attend the event and meet people and talk about our programs. The event is from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Let President Karl know if you can assist at the event.
Also on February 7th, later in the day, is the Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl for Kids Sake opportunity. Contact Ashley Urban for further information and to join the team.
February 26th is the Chamber's hype (Young Professionals of MHK) Love MHK non-Profit Happy Hour 5:30-7:30 pm. Heather and Sophia will be looking into attending and sharing our Club's mission with that group.
The Social Committee is working on setting a date in February for the Club to attend the Museum of Art and Light.
Gary Lloyd has been asked by Vern to participate in the GFC Radio hour March 2nd at 10:30 at Eagle Radio and talk about our organization as it was recognized as the Civic Organization of the Year. Gary is a new member and it would be nice to have a seasoned member with knowledge of the organization's history to accompany him.
Meeting adjourned with the Optimist Creed.
SAVE THE DATE: March 28th is the annual Spaghetti Dinner.
JANUARY 21 – MORNING MEETING: Program: Youth of the Month – Marlatt/Oliver Brown Elementary
JANUARY 28 – NOON MEETING: Program: Sharolyn Jackson, Kansas State University Extension Specialist, Topic: “Stay Strong – Stay Healthy Program”
