HAFFORD HAS APPRECIATION OF OPTIMISM

Growing up in an inner-city neighborhood can teach a child to appreciate the services provided by groups such as Optimist Clubs, as Bob Hafford can well ~attest.

Hafford, president of the Cape Girardeau Optimist Club, hails from the Bronx borough of New York City. He said his primary reason for becoming an Optimist was to reciprocate the kindness he received as a youth.

"A lot of the guys I grew up with could have been helped by groups like us," said Hafford. "I made it through, partly because of strong parents, and being an Optimist is my way of paying back society."

Hafford, who works for Procter & Gamble, was transferred from Cincinnati to Cape Girardeau in 1983. He joined the Optimists shortly after.

In addition to serving as president for two years, Hafford has worked on fund raisers and Youth Appreciation Week. He is also a resource for Junior Optimists.

One of the most noteworthy club activities in which Hafford takes part is the operation of a fund-raising stand each year at the SEMO District Fair.

"I take the whole week off from work to run the stand," he said. "Everyone calls it my annual week to become a carny."

Hafford said he enjoys his involvement with the club because of the outlook of its members.

"Like most of the people here," he said, "I like the philosophy of Optimism. It's upbeat people feeling good about themselves and others."

Hafford will serve as lieutenant governor of Zone 15 next year.

Hafford and his wife, Margo, have two children, Jackie, 22, and Greg, 20.