The Optimist Club of Eden Prairie has elected Jim Allen as its president for the 2009 - 2010 year. Allen succeeds Bruce Balfanz, the Optimists’ current president.

Other officers elected were Vice Presidents Ryan Affolter of New Hope and Michelle Wallin of Minneapolis, Secretary Rocky Lhotka of Eden Prairie, and Treasurer Gary Lambert of Chanhassen.

Installation of the Eden Prairie Optimist Officers and Directors was held on Monday, Oct. 12, at Camp Eden Wood in Eden Prairie.

Allen and his wife Andrea have been residents of Eden Prairie for 15 years. Allen has been owner/operator of a construction business for the past 22 years. He has been a member of the Eden Prairie Optimists since 2006 and an active member of the annual Christmas Tree lot committee.

“The primary challenge for our club and the Optimist organization is to encourage new members who wish to become Optimist volunteers. New members will assure new ideas and new youth programs,” said Allen. “The activities and programs we support will continue to serve the youth in Eden Prairie and prepare them for the future.”

The Optimist Club is a civic organization with an emphasis on programs that benefit and recognize the youth of Eden Prairie. The club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at the Chanhassen American Legion, 290 Lake Drive E., Chanhassen. Visitors are always welcome. Men and women interested in learning more about becoming an Optimist volunteer can contact Allen by e-mail at jallen@comcast.net.