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Health & Fitness

Optimist's Club Independence Parade

Well it’s that time of the year again when the Optimist Club of Menomonee Falls takes on its biggest annual community event, the Independence Parade on July 3rd.  After just completing my annual week at the popcorn wagon and helping out at our 2nd Annual Softball Outseam Tournament I begin taking my turn at the cotton candy machine.  Tomorrow many Optimist Club members will begin the shifts of cotton candy making and popcorn popping.  I will then return on Wednesday to take my post at the staging area lining up just a portion of the many units participating in the parade. 

This is a big year for the Optimist Club as we celebrate our 40th year and have sponsored the Independence Parade since 1982.  This year we honor 40 local war veterans from Menomonee Falls who have served in the many difference branches of service to fight for our freedom.  Please show them your gratitude as they pass by your area.

This parade does not go on without cost.  We incur $17,000 in expenses to put on this annual event and hope it provides families who come out to watch it with the best parade experience ever.  As the parade comes through Optimist Club members will be selling cotton candy, popcorn, and balloons to help cover some of our expenses.  We will also have our bucket brigade walking the route collecting donations.  Please consider making a purchase or donating.

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After the parade the Accompany of Kids will be performing in the Schumann Stadium prior to the fireworks.  Please stop by and enjoy their great entertainment.

If you've ever wondered what the Optimist Club is or its purpose; we pride ourselves in "Bringing out the Best in Kids."  Every school year we highlight amazing students each month from Menomonee Falls High School, North Middle School and local parochial schools.  This year we gave out $13,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors.  A few of the many programs we sponsor are the Distinguished Young Woman Scholarship Program, Tri Star Baseball and Basketball, Punt, Pass, & Kick Contest, Oratorical & Essay Contests, Fishing Derby, Magic Show, Post Prom, Holiday Drop & Shop, Respect for Law, and John Weaver Do the Right Thing.  If you have any interest in finding out how your child can benefit from these programs please feel free to let me know. 

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This year we also gave out $35,000 in donations to numerous organizations such as MFHS Student Council, MF Junior Indians, MF Angels, Badger Girls State, and Menomonee Falls Little League just to name a few.

Well as I wrap this up I personally would like to wish everyone a safe and wonderful Independence Day and thank all those men and women who have served our country then and still are now.

SEE YOU AT THE PARADE!!!

 

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