The Breakfast Optimist Club of East Fort Worth will celebrate the accomplishments of outgoing President Debbie Koennecke and her team while welcoming the club’s new leadership for 2026–2027.

The evening will feature keynote speaker Dale Petroski.  Dale is a former president of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, former Vice President of Marketing for the Texas Rangers, and former Assistant White House Press Secretary for President Ronald Reagan.

Petroski was also involved in the preparation of one of President Reagan’s most famous speeches, which included the historic line, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall.”

The 2026–2027 Governor of the Texhoma District, Tasha Sheehan, will officially install the club’s new officers during the evening.

The celebration promises an evening of recognition, leadership, fellowship, and community, with an expected attendance of at least 45 guests. Members are encouraged to invite friends, prospective members, and community members interested in learning more about the Optimist mission.

Members of neighboring Optimist Clubs have also been invited to participate in the celebration.

Event Details

Date: October 1, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Shady Valley Country Club, 4001 West Park Row Drive, Arlington, TX
Cost: $10 per person

*The evening includes hors d’oeuvres, dinner, dessert, and a Champagne toast.

Register Online: https://eastfortworthoptimist.org/events/

Payment will be accepted at the door by cash, credit card, or check.

The Breakfast Optimist Club of East Fort Worth invites members of the community to join this special evening and celebrate the club’s commitment to leadership, service, fellowship, and optimism.