Len Stephens teaches children safety hand signals at the Optimists de Sandoval’s Bike Rodeo at Homestead Village Shopping Center last month in Placitas. Left to right: Len Stephens, Angelo Tortorelli, Titus Ortiz, James Madueña, Natory Tortorelli, Troy Tortorelli

Optimist Club hosts activities

—Fran Hawks
Board member
Optimists de Sandoval

Eileen Romero, Placitas resident and employee of Placitas Elementary School, was the first-prize winner in the Optimist Club’s raffle to raise money for playground equipment in Placitas. Romero won a free overnight stay and dinner for two at the Tamaya Resort. Congratulations to Eileen! and we thank all who purchased tickets and donated prizes to this worthy cause.

The bike rodeo on April 19 emphasized bike maintenance, safety equipment, and safety tips. Several bikes were given to children through Peanut Butter and Jelly. Thank you to Tom Ashe and the Placitas Chamber of Commerce, who have donated funds for two bikes. The children were asked to write an essay on "Why I need a New Bike.” The winner of the girl's bike was Carolyn Mackley of Bernalillo and the winner of the boy's bike was Alex Blanton of Placitas. Cyclecave of Albuquerque donated the safety equipment. Frank Hawks and Len Stephens hosted this event for area kids. 

The Optimist Club will host its one-week summer camp again this year. The camp will be July 7 through 11 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the San Antonio Mission Community Center. Many fun activities are planned, at a cost of $25 for one child, $20 for the second child in the family. For more information, please contact Fran Stephens at 867-3077. Flyers about the camp will be sent home with Placitas Elementary School children.

Optimists de Sandoval works for kids and families. We meet on the first and third Mondays of the month at the San Antonio Mission Center at 7:00 p.m. New members are welcome. For more information, contact Elaine Sullivan at 771-1171.