Collector's Edition #1, Year 2 October 2000

Message From the President

Congratulations to Past President Rick and last year's Board. Our club has grown in size and experience. Making "Honour Club" and having a successful year presents a solid foundation from which to build.

A warm welcome to Andy Friyia and Paul Weeks who were inducted to the club on September 21st and Mark McGugan who was inducted at the NOW breakfast on September 30. Our thanks to Lieutenant-Governor Len Egan for performing the service at both of these meetings. I look forward to serving this year as your President. As I outlined at the induction of your new Board, we will be targeting four main object­ives this year:
1. Repeat as Honour Club
2. Maintain our existing projects and add at least one new event.
3. Develop on the Optimist slogan for 2000/01: "Growth through Communications"
4. Have Fun

Already we have had a great kick-start to the year. Inside Oakline you will see profiles on 8 new members. I look forward to our October 19 dinner meeting when these Optimists officially join our club. At this meeting the 2nd London Group of Scouts Canada will make a presentation. In addition, we are fortunate to have well known Londoner, Jim Etherington, speaking to us on the 2001 Summer Games. Don't miss it!

Optimist Bill Chantler and his committee have the wheels in motion for next month's hockey tournament on November 18-19. This is an event, which the club has taken on and should, outside of Bingo, be our largest fundraiser of the year. Please contact Bill to help out.

My thanks to Pat Moffatt, Fred Fickling and the B.N., Doug McMaster for continuing their leadership of our Bingo program. It continues to be a major money raiser and an integral part of our club financing.

Optimists Bob Moldowan and Don Draper do a great job putting this newsletter together and their talents are most appreciated.

On September 29 I attended our Safety on Wheels event at Westdale Public School. Optimist Don Draper ran a superbly organized and beneficial session. Doug Mackay, Pat Moffatt and my wife, Janine, also worked the event. Pat even managed to recruit from the community and gained a worker, Richard Hooper, who Pat is now sponsoring to the club. Way to go Pat! It was however the excitement, interest and intensity of the 150 children which made this a worthwhile project. They had some fun, learned safety and had their bikes inspected. In conjunction with the teachers, parents and the London Police safety liaison officer, a coopera­tive team effort was led by the Oakridge Optimists. Congratulations to all. Please take time to introduce yourself to our new members. Review our correspondence and this newsletter and decide how you can help to make us a stronger club.

Jim Easton

OAKOGRAPHY

Ron Fisher has been a member of the Oakridge Optimist Club since 1989 when he was recruited by Bob Stark. Like a number of our people, Ron served as an assistant coach on his son Jeff's T-­Ball team which was coached by Bob. Ron has spent a total of 8 years on the Board of Directors including 2 years as President.

Ron has coached his son through 11 years of baseball including 3 years on competitive teams. He is a past member of the baseball committee with duties including convenor, vice-chair and chair. He has been the LDBA representative and has conducted coaching clinics. When not busy with Optimist duties, Ron has volunteered for a number of organizations including the Salvation Army, Kidney Foundation, Arthritis Society, Block Parents and the Medway Community Association. The primary social passion in Ron's life is no, not that Golf! Ron has worked for the Government Store (LCBO) for 29 years in a variety of positions that have taken him from Windsor to head office in Toronto. He still maintains his home in London but he is working out of Toronto on a supply chain project. I may be a little off here but I have it on good authority that this is a nine month project that will be completed sometime in 2003 or 2004. Ron has one son, Jeff, who is 20 years old and is going to Fanshawe College preparing to enter an architectural technology course next year. You only have to talk to Ron for a few minutes to know how proud he is of his son's accomplishments at his carpentry job and at school.

Ron has a few great memories of his Optimist years. He enjoys fond memories of the summer of 1989 when he helped Bob Stark coach T-Ball and takes pride in the high school scholarships that became a reality during one of his terms as President. Thanks to the idea and help he got from Doug MacKay and Bruce Pope. His funniest recollection is of Don Boos coming to a nominating committee meeting courtesy of a police officer after having gotten a close look at a sidewalk. His only regret is missing so many Optimist functions while he is in Toronto. That is our regret as well. Thanks for all of your involvement and we look forward to lots more in the future.

Success is rooted in optimism:

"I have not failed. I'vejust found 10,000 ways that won't work." - Thomas Edison

"Optimism: The doctrine that everything is beautiful, including what is ugly, everything good, especially the bad, and everything right that is wrong... It is hereditary, but fortunately not contagious." Ambrose Bierce

"The optimist proclaims that we live in the best of all possible worlds; and the pessimist fears this is true. -- James Branch Cabell

Sept 21 Dinner Meeting Report:

A separate room at the Mandarin Restaurant served as a comfortable setting for a magnificent feast and the final duties of President Rick and the 1999/2000 Board of Directors. Len Egan and his wife Dolly were honoured guests. Len was on hand as Lieutenant Governor to officially induct the new Board. Eating at the Mandarin, with its delectable selec­tion, is like being a "kid in a candy store". Amazing that any business could ensue after we dined so well but much did in fact happen. Following is a summary:

1. Guest, Rick Evans, Past Pres. of the Downtown Club made a presentation. He had been in charge of security at the Canada Wide Science Fair. He thanked the Oakridge Optimists for their monetary contribution and presented a thank you letter to Don Draper for being on duty at the Fair.

2. Induction ceremony of the new Board. Lt.-Gov. Len explained to Secretary Bill Chantler that his position was next to the president in importance and workload. No pressure Bill!

3. Past President plaques were given to Doug Mackay, Don Draper and Rick Gillespie. For each person the members who followed as president expressed gratitude.

4. President Rick honoured Peter Hegler for his outstanding term of office as Lieutenant Governor in 1998/1999. He had previously been awarded a plaque for "Distinguished" service and was given the nameplate by Rick.

5. To introduce the club's newest Life Member, President Rick outlined a plethora of past ac­complishments and service completed by one of our members. The cat was out of the bag when Rick said this person had been president in 1992/1993. Randy Brewe Was presented with a framed document, which recognizes his signi­ficant service to the community. Randy indicat­ed he was very proud to be a member of the Oakridge Optimist Club. This honour is one small way we can all thank and congratulate Randy for his past efforts.

6. President Rick thanked Lt.Gov Len for his assistance during the past year. Len was most pleased to receive one of our new club shirts.

7. Incoming President Jim Easton outlined his ideas for the coming year. (See Jim's President's Message). We can all anticipate another great year ahead packed full of service opportunities, fun and fellowship.

N.O.W. Breakfast Report - Sept 30

Shaking hands with official greeters- Ted Melchers, Andy Friyia and Peter Hegler was the first indication one of the 28 in attendance had that this was going to be a well-organized and friendly occasion. The full course $6.50 breakfast was worth coming for - it ranked with what you might get at the Hilton or Sheraton. Guests were Lieutenant Governor Len Egan and incoming Lt.­Gov. Jackie McGrenere along with her Optimist husband, Marty.Program included:

1. Update of the Hockey committee by Opt. John Preston.
2. Introduction of the Hockey Committee, Optimist members and guests.
3. Induction of new member Mark McGugan by Len Egan. Mark will be a Call Captain this year.
4. Len Egan gave a brief history of Optimist clubs and the work they do.
5. Pres. Jim Easton and Lt.-Gov. Jackie McGrenere spoke briefly of their plans for the coming year.

Pres. Jim has suggested that informal breakfasts be held during the year. It offers an excellent chance to keep up-to-date on club happenings and for committee chairs to find help for the various projects we do. Most of all, the morning meal seems to be an ideal time to simply enjoy good company and relaxed conversation. Not a bad idea Jim!

Bicycle Safety Rodeo - Sept.29

The day was custom ordered for this event held at Westdale School. The $300 budget for the day covered:
1. Orange juice for the children ($60)
2. Safety on Wheels T-shiits for teachers and non-Optimist workers. ($115)
3. Bike and activity oriented materials offered as draw prizes ($120)
4. Administration costs (pencils, copying) ($5)

Purpose was to provide feedback to the Grade 1-6 children about upkeep and care of their bikes. It also teaches safety (signalling and how to approach a stop sign) and give children a chance to test their agility while pedalling through the 5 courses set up on the tarmac. Thanks to Sil Brecevic and 3M for the donation of tape. Bicycle inspectors were Pat Moffatt, Richard Hooper and Jim Freure. Richard had his tool kit so that any minor adjustments could be made on the spot. A nice touch! Working very capably on the courses were Beth Freure, Jim Wood, Jamie Draper, Linda Stevens, Janine Easton, Doug Mackay and police safety liaison officer for the school, Ian Norman. Helping with the registration and distribution of drinks, Always Buckle Up Children pamphlets and certificates were parents, Suzanne Stuckey, Erin Rau and Donna Kovacs.

With the assistance of principal, Janice Reid this successful rodeo was truly a partnership between the Oakridge Optimist Club, parent and community volunteers, and the City of London Police.

Os kee -Wee-Wee

Sunday, November 5th. - The Club has pur­chased 50 seats for a final regular season CFL game between the Tiger Cats and Calgary at Ivor Wynne Stadium. This could be a Grey Cup preview as both these teams are leading their divisions. The same Camel Coach luxury bus that took us to Detroit in January has been booked. Round trip ticket is only $30. Ticket face value is $26 so this is a great deal! You are in­vited to bring family, friends and neighbours as your guests. The bus leaves from Thames Valley Golf Course at 12:30 p.m. For those interested there will be an informal breakfast at the Golf Course starting at 10:30 am. All are welcome to attend one or both of the above. Call captains will be in touch with you shortly. For more information or to reserve your spot call Jim Easton, 641-0798.

Meet the Newest Members

The following have had their applications for membership approved by the Board of Directors (see new club list for addresses, phone number and spouse's name if applicable)
1. Jack Beattie - is a teacher at South Sec.School.. He has 3 children, Sarah (20), Libby (18) and J.D. (16). Jack has served on the Oakridge Hockey Committee for 10 years and has been president of the Forest City Diving Club and also of the Gymkips.
2. Hal Fraser - is an assistant plant manager with Sterling Trucks. He and wife Lizabeth have two children, Eric (5) and Holly (2). Hal is most interested in being involved in community service and specifically youth activities.
3. Tim Firth - is a logistics manager with 3M Canada. He and wife Brandie have two children, Andrew (9) and Cameron (8). Tim has served as Chapter Pres. And National Director of the Can. Credit Institute. He is particularly interested in the hockey and baseball programs.
4. Bob Caron - is a programmer at U.W.O. He and wife Patricia have two children, Paul (10) and David (7). Bob has served as VP of London Minor Football. He has an interest in all our sports programs and adds football as an extra.
5. David Peach - is an office administrator with The Associates. He and wife Cathi have two children, Kyle (11) and Jonathon (8). David has taken on the important job of chairing the Hockey Committee this year.
6. John Preston - is a branch manager with CTI Equipment. He has three children, Morgan (19), Mathew (16) and Scott (16). He has been Director of both the London Sports Council and Greater London Hockey Association. He has a continuing interest in all the Oakridge sports programs.
7 Vince Giannantonio - is the owner of Furniture Distributors on 1003 Hamilton Road. Vince and his wife, Brenda are very much looking forward to the fellowship/social functions offered by the Oakridge Optimist Club.
8. Richard Hooper - is the Service Manager at the Masonville Canadian Tire Store. He and his wife Christine have three children, David (24), Sharon (21) and Shannon (18). Richard has previous Optimist experience with Westminster Park where he had been Sec. -Treas., VP , President and Life Member. One suggestion he has is that we consider developing a computer website for youth.

"Under the B" Means Bingo Bucks

During the October Directors' Meeting the following funding requests were approved:
1. Jump Rope for Heart (school program) - $90
2. Oakridge Sec. Sch. Developmentally Challenged class to participate in a program offered by the Special Abilities Riding Institute. - $330
3. Oakridge House League Novice Hockey team sponsorship - $295
4. Execulink to maintain the Oakridge Optimist Website managed by Peter Hegler. - $127.42. This is one key source of information available to youth and their parents about the programs our club offers-thus it is eligible to draw funds from the Bingo Account. If you are not acquainted with the fine work Peter has done you should visit the site at http://www.execulink.com/~oakridge/optimist.htm
5. P.E.A.C.E. Program - $1500
6. 2nd London Scout Group Committee - $1450

Youth in Education:

One activity this citywide committee organizes is a visit by a prominent Canadian to address school children and interested members of the community. This year it has been arranged for Nancy Greene to be the guest presenter. Yes you probably remembered that Nancy was a champion Olympic skier but did you realize that she was voted Canada's Female Athlete of the Century. The program is twofold:
1. 9:30 - 11:30 p.m. Presentation for schools at Centennial Hall. They will need volunteers fbr this to act as ushers. It will also be a chance to be there for free. For information on volunteering oontact Jim Braddon - 659-7457
2. 7:00 p.m. Anybody can attend at Centennial Hall forafee of $12.

Dates for Your Calendar:

October 19, 2000- Dinner Meeting at Thames Valley Golf Course (7:00 p.m.) Speaker is Jim Etherington

November 02, 2000- Nancy Greene at Centennial Hall. School session at 9:30 a.m. and community session at 7:00 p.m. ($12)

November 02, 2000- Directors' Meeting at Oakridge Arena (7:00 p.m.)

November 05, 2000- Breakfast at Thames Valley Golf Course (10:30 a.m.) and Bus trip to Hamilton for the Tiger Cats Game against Calgary. Busgoes at 12:30 p.m. ($30)

November 16- Dinner Meeting at Thames Valley G.C. 6:00 p.m. for live broadcast of the CFPL Sportscall show followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m.

News from the Zone

1. London's Newest Optimist Club The Optimist Club of Stoney Ridge - London was formed on Sept. 27th. You may have seen the photo and article, which appeared in the North London Beacon (Oct 6 Ed.) and highlight­ed this group, made up of more than thirty women who wish to promote youth programs in their community. The Oakridge Optimists extend our congratulations and support to President Jennifer Jolliffe and her colleagues.

2. North London Optimist Euchre Tournament. Saturday, November 18, 7:30 p.m. at the CAW Hall, 606 First St. Entry fee is $l0/person. Contact Gary Collins - 451-5399

Humour Section

Hallowe'en Quickies

1. What do you call a person who puts poison in another person's corn flakes?
- A cereal killer

2. Why did the vampire subscribe to Vogue?
- He heard it had great circulation!

3. What's a cold, evil candle called?
- The wicked wick of the north!

4. Why wasn't the vampire working?
- He was on his coffin break!

5. What's a vampire's favourite feast?
- Fangsgiving Day dinner!

6. What do goblins mail home while on vacation?
- Ghostcards!

7. What's fast food to a vampire?
- A guy with really high blood pressure

8. Do zombies eat pop corn with their fingers?
- No. They eat the fingers separately!

9. How do you know a ghost is lying?
- You can see right through him!

10. What do you call a skeleton that refuses to help around the house?
- Lazybones!

Celebrations

Happy Anniversary

Vince&Brenda Giannantonio -Oct.11
Rick&Dana Harriss -Oct.13
Dave&Cathi Peach -Oct.11

Happy Birthday

Ab Chahbar - Oct
Steve Cochrane - Oct 13
Kevin Heslop - Oct 5
Richard Hooper - Oct. 1
Bruce Pope - 12

Optimist Club of Oakridge Acres

Board of Directors 2000/2001

President - Jim Easton (641-0798)
V.P (Youth) - Steve Cochrane (657-8865)
V.P. (Ways & Means) Kevin Heslop (472-2627)
Secretary - Bill Chantler (641-6483)
Treasurer - Craig Rath 673-6403)
Past President - Rick Gillespie (641-2815)
Director (1 yr.) - Peter Hegler (4714928)
Director (1 yr.) - Doug Mackay (473-5885)
Director (1 yr.) - Rick Harriss (473-2412)
Director (2 yr.) - Sil Brecevic (657-8803)
Director (2 yr.) - Mike WQIowich (473-0769)
Director (2 yr.) - Fred Fickling (472-1062)

THE OPTIMIST CREED

PROMISE YOURSELF

To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.
To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble

OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL

A New Optimist International Year

The International President for 2000/2001 is Robert L. Garner. His home club is the Optimist Club of Miami-West Kendall, Florida. During his address to the Convention in Reno, this past summer, he stated that "Optimists are people who believe that through positive action in their communities they can create a better tomorrow." He, like other presidents has established his own mission (see logo) but he also recognizes that from our "humble beginnings in 1919" there has prevailed a central theme in the organization - "a passionate desire to make our communities and the world a better place for our youngest and most vulnerable citizens."

A Reminder!!!!!

If you have not already done it, annual dues payments should be sent to treasurer, Craig Rath, 417 Coombs Ave., London ON, N6G 1S3. It's a bargain at $65 because you get one of the new club shirts upon renewal.

· Dinner meetings for the Oakridge Optimist Club are on the 3rd Thurs. of each month at Thames Valley Golf Course - 7:00 p.m.

· Board of Directors Meetings are on the 1st Thurs. of each month at the Oakridge Arena - 7:00 p.m.