Optimist Club of Bastrop, Louisiana

07/18/2026

Today’s Optimist Club of Bastrop meeting featured an outstanding and informative presentation by Ryan Daniel with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

Ryan shared updates on the continued development and success of Bussey Brake, along with other important information regarding wildlife management, conservation efforts, and outdoor recreational opportunities that benefit our region. His presentation provided valuable insight into one of Northeast Louisiana’s premier outdoor destinations and the positive impact it continues to have on our communities.

We sincerely appreciate Ryan taking the time to speak with our club and answer questions from our members.

Pictured (left to right): Sheriff Mike Tubbs, Ryan Daniel, and Alan Bankston.

Thank you to all who attended another great Optimist Club meeting as we continue to learn from leaders who are making a difference in our community.

07/11/2026

🇺🇸 An Informative and Inspiring Optimist Club Meeting! 🇺🇸

The Optimist Club of Bastrop was honored to welcome Mike Walsworth with the Louisiana Lieutenant Governor’s Office as our guest speaker Friday.

Mike shared an informative presentation covering a variety of topics, including updates on legislative matters, Louisiana’s ongoing beautification and cleanup efforts, tourism initiatives, and other important issues impacting our state. His insights were both educational and encouraging.

As a special keepsake, Mike presented each member and guest with a commemorative Louisiana America 250 lapel pin celebrating Louisiana’s role in the 250th birthday of the United States. He also generously presented the Optimist Club with a donation to support our scholarship fund, helping us continue investing in the future of our local youth.

In appreciation of his time and commitment to serving Louisiana, Club President Brian Shoemaker presented Mr. Walsworth with a token of appreciation on behalf of the Optimist Club of Bastrop.

We also extend a sincere thank you to all of our guests who joined us for Friday’s meeting. Your presence helped make it a wonderful gathering of fellowship, learning, and community spirit.

Thank you, Mike Walsworth, for your leadership, your generosity, and your dedication to making Louisiana an even better place to live, work, and visit! 💙💛

07/04/2026

🇺🇸 Land of Opportunity. Home of Hope. 🇺🇸

This Independence Day, let us pause to reflect on the blessings of freedom, the courage of those who fought to secure it, and the responsibility we share to preserve it for future generations.

May we celebrate not only our nation's independence, but also the spirit of unity, service, and optimism that makes America strong. Together, we can continue building brighter communities, helping our neighbors, and creating opportunities for our youth.

As fireworks light up the sky, may gratitude fill our hearts for the freedoms we enjoy and the heroes who made them possible.

❤️🤍💙 Happy Fourth of July from the Optimist Club of Bastrop! 💙🤍❤️

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." — Eleanor Roosevelt

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07/03/2026

🇺🇸 A Fresh Symbol of Freedom, Just in Time for Independence Day 🇺🇸
As we prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, members of the Optimist Club of Bastrop had the privilege of replacing the worn American flag that proudly flies over our courthouse square with a beautiful new one.

It was a simple act of service, but a powerful reminder that our flag represents the sacrifices of those who came before us, the freedoms we cherish today, and the responsibility we all share to leave our community stronger for the next generation.

The Optimist Club is honored to help care for this symbol of our nation and our community. We extend our sincere thanks to every club member who volunteered their time to ensure Old Glory continues to fly with the dignity and respect it deserves.

As you gather with family and friends this Independence Day, may we all pause for a moment to look up, appreciate the flag that waves above us, and remember the blessings of living in the land of the free because of the brave.

From all of us at the Optimist Club of Bastrop, we wish you a safe, joyful, and blessed Fourth of July! 🇺🇸❤️🤍💙

“Promise Yourself… to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.” — Optimist Creed

07/02/2026

The Optimist Club of Bastrop was thrilled to welcome Dr. Glen Melton as our speaker at our recent meeting, and he certainly did not disappoint.

Dr. Melton captivated the audience with exciting details about the upcoming 10th Anniversary Chemin-a-Haut Trail Run & Walk, a milestone event that continues to bring energy, enthusiasm, and community spirit to our region. From scenic trails to the growing number of participants each year, he painted a vivid picture of why this event has become such a beloved tradition.

He also delivered an engaging and insightful update on the state of forestry in Northeast Louisiana, shedding light on its critical role in sustaining our local economy, preserving natural resources, and shaping the future of our region. His passion for the outdoors was evident throughout his presentation.

Thank you, Dr. Melton, for sharing your expertise and inspiring our club with your dedication to healthy living, outdoor adventure, and the forestry industry in Northeast Louisiana. We truly appreciate you.

Pictured (left to right): Brian Shoemaker, Optimist Club of Bastrop President; Dr. Glen Melton, speaker; and Kristi Powell.

07/02/2026

Registration is now open! This is one of the best trail runs in Louisiana! JOIN US!

06/22/2026

Happy Father's Day from the Optimist Club of Bastrop!

Today we celebrate the fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, mentors, coaches, and father figures who make a difference in the lives of our children and our community every day.

Thank you for the lessons you teach, the example you set, the encouragement you give, and the love you share. Your guidance helps shape the leaders of tomorrow and strengthens our community for generations to come.

Wishing all fathers a day filled with love, appreciation, and time spent with those who matter most.

💙 Happy Father's Day! 💙

06/08/2026

🏈 Optimist Club of Bastrop Welcomes Beekman Charter Football Coaches

The Optimist Club of Bastrop was pleased to welcome representatives from the Beekman Charter School football program as guest speakers at Friday’s meeting.

Pictured left to right are Brian Shoemaker, Optimist Club President; Coach Greg Hill, Head Football Coach at Beekman Charter School; and Coach Micah Griffin, Offensive Coordinator.

Coach Hill and Coach Griffin shared exciting updates on the upcoming football season, discussing team preparations, goals, player development, and the continued growth of the Beekman Charter football program. Their passion for mentoring young athletes and building a strong culture both on and off the field was evident throughout the presentation.

The Optimist Club appreciates Coach Hill and Coach Griffin taking the time to visit and provide an inside look at what promises to be an exciting season for the Beekman Charter Tigers. We wish the coaches, players, and supporters a successful and memorable year ahead!

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05/15/2026

🎓✨ The Optimist Club of Bastrop is incredibly proud to recognize two outstanding young ladies as recipients of this year’s Optimist Club Scholarships!

Congratulations to Brooklyn Avery of Prairie View Academy, recipient of the Doug Higginbotham Scholarship, and to Cori Guice, recipient of the Optimist/Buddy Henderson Memorial Scholarship.

These scholarships represent much more than financial assistance — they honor hard work, determination, character, leadership, and the bright futures ahead for these exceptional students. We are inspired by their achievements and excited to watch them continue to shine in the next chapter of their journeys.

The Optimist Club believes deeply in investing in the youth of our community, and these young women are wonderful examples of the talent, promise, and heart found right here in Morehouse Parish.

Pictured presenting the awards is Optimist Club President Brian Shoemaker. The beautiful plaques were graciously furnished by Optimist Club member Glen Hendrix of D & H Sporting Goods, whose continued support of the youth of our community is sincerely appreciated.

Please join us in congratulating Brooklyn and Cori on these well-deserved honors. We are so proud of you both and know you will continue to accomplish amazing things! 💙💛

04/28/2026