Optimist Club of Petersburg raises funds for youth programs

From left to right are Optimist Club member Steve Malleck, president Warren Bechthold, members Allan MacIsaac and John Gutscher at the Community Bottle Drive in Petersburg Oct. 18. Diane Danen photo

By Diane Danen

The Optimist Club of Petersburg hosted its Community Bottle Drive on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bechthold Home Improvements.

Club members were on hand throughout the day, collecting bottles and cans, any items with a deposit at the time of purchase. Club president Warren Bechthold joked that they tell participants to “go home and get hydrated” so they’ll have empties to donate at their next fundraiser.

The bottle drive is held three times each year, in October, January and May. The club uses all proceeds from the event for youth programs and other community initiatives.

Fo’ Cheezy Food Truck was on hand to support the event and offer up a delicious selection of grilled cheese sandwiches. The Optimist Club would like to thank them for their generous support.

The Optimist Club is now busy preparing for its Youth Pumpkin Giveaway, taking place on Saturday, Oct. 25. Herrle’s Country Farm Market in St. Agatha has generously donated pumpkins for the event. Local youth are invited to stop by Bechthold Home Improvements at 1239 Notre Dame Dr. in Petersburg from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. to pick up a pumpkin to take home and carve. Participants will have the opportunity to submit a photo of their carved pumpkin for a chance to win prizes. More details will be shared at the pumpkin giveaway.

Looking ahead, the Optimist Club invites families to join them for Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 13, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Petersburg.