Message from the President
I had the pleasure in
April to attend the 50^th
anniversary party held
by the Byron Optimist
Club at the Hilton
Hotel. Our very own
Linda Hegler and
Sylvano Brescevic were big winners in the soup slurping contest.

Byron was our parent club back in 1957. In all 5 members and 5 guests from our club helped Byron celebrate this milestone. Congratulations Byron!

On April 10th Bob Litvinchuk made a presentation to the Board of Directors regarding the uniforms for the competitive hockey teams. I have heard many comments from past and present members. I will be bringing one of the new jerseys to our April dinner meeting. The board wants feedback from the membership before making a final decision.

Hockey has been in the news recently with the conditional application to the OMHA, the moritorium on any movement, proposed changes to GLHA structure and the resignation of the GLHA board and the retirement of its executive director. Once again, we will provide an update at the next dinner meeting.

Our subsidy of public skating was a great success and roller blading is set to begin this week. Thanks to Kevin Heslop for his hard work.

Rick Gillespie

Oakography
Randy Brewe joined the Oakridge Optimist club in 1984 and has spent the vast majority of his time as a member of the Board of Directors in every position except Secretary/ Treasurer. He has been a Director, Vice President twice and president in 1992/93. In all, he has spent 13 of his 16 years in the club on the board.

He has coached baseball and soccer, was the bingo chair for 6 years, spent 4 terms putting out a newsletter, coordinated the Youth in Government program for 5 years, worked on the Learn to Skate program and spent many years on the Soccer committee as Chair and Treasurer.

He will celebrate his 20th wedding anniversary with his wife Cathy on May 31st this year. He has two children, son Chris 17 years and daughter Jen 14 years. He has worked for the provincial Ministry of Finance for 19 years and is presently a Senior Field Auditor.

When he is not working or spending time on Optimist business he likes to operate radio controlled planes or fly the real thing. He holds a private pilot's license, curls, golfs and likes to run 10K races. His goal is to get his pilot instructor's license.

Favourite Optimist memories include the Louisville convention (no further details provided here but I have heard a few stories over a beer after bingo), the bus trip to Detroit where the group returned minus one father in law, running the beer tent at Delaware raceway when one Optimist threw a drunk over a fence and in general the pranks and events during the Harness and Reneboog terms as President. After our last dinner meeting I think I can appreciate that one.

Randy has had an event filled 16 years in the club in terms of hard work and fun times.

Our dinner meeting, March 23^rd, gave past presidents, no longer in the club, a chance to reminisce about their achievements and experiences when they were members of the Oakridge Optimist Club. When Tom Walton had the floor he said "there were a couple of stories I can't even remember" (sounds like Yogi Berra). There were a couple of tales that we'll choose not to remember in this, a somewhat politically correct bulletin, but summarized below are some of the activities recalled during the "sharing time".

Peter Chapman: 1982 Stories of the garage sales we used to have come up every so often and Peter reviewed how it really involved a large number of club members and established an esprit de corps. He described Bob Stark's truck generously donated to pick up donations for the sales as "The Pride of the Fleet". Was this a touch of sarcasm?

Jim Wettlaufer: 1981 Recognized Bob Harris as the supreme innovator in dreaming up fund raising schemes. Starting our involvement in Bingoes 22 years ago and Dragon Boat Races were fondly mentioned. Then there were baseball tournaments in Oneida and an infamous hockey tournament in Thedford. Jim remembered the referee stressing there was to be no fighting and it was him who was knocked out cold by one of the Thedford players later in the game. Apparently Fred Fickling took care of matters by chasing the culprit from the arena.

Tom Walton: 1972. He joined the club in 1966 "because of baseball" Tom took some ribbing about the time he "wiped out" the white fence located at the far east entrance to the golf club property after a dinner meeting. You see it was the practice of many members to stick around after dinner meetings, play cards, chat and have a few extra beverages. The exact circumstances of the accident were something else Tom did not remember well. He did have vivid memories of our participation in a Chili contest. Our approach was to make the chili hotter than any other club's. Apparently we won on that score. Tom recalled the time we hosted a minor hockey team from Sweden. There is an orange horse in the display cabinet at Oakridge arena which was presented by the Swedes. He also enjoyed our involvement in Optimist curling bonspiels.

Bob Harris: 1978 The many friends made while an Optimist was highlighted by Bob. He stressed the importance of the Optimist Creed in helping him get through tougher times. He had the Creed posted on his bathroom mirror.

Chuck Dungey: 1973. Chuck said he used his involvement to help him raise 3 boys "I couldn't control". He cited the influence of Tom Bishop for getting him involved and the work of Joe Ecclestone in running the oratorical contest. Many early members coached in the sports program and Chuck was no different. He coached hockey with Tom Walton.

Don Boos: 1987 Don was quite modest in his presentation but few have worked harder than him to activate programs suggested by Optimist International. Some of his fondest memories were of International Conventions he has attended. Jim Coleman referred to him now as the "Lord of Rodney"

Jim Coleman: 1991 Jim echoed the sentiments of many in saying "Optimism affects your entire life and your outlook on things". He joined the club in a search for social involvement. He did not mention it but few have served at a higher level as Jim became a District Governor one year. He enjoyed, more, talking about the time a stove was dropped on Mahogany Rd. during the garage sale pickup. The elements were all over the road. Guess we didn't earn much money on that contribution!

Bob Renneboog: 1989 Involvement in club projects equals fellowship. The bus trips to Detroit, the chilli contest (a trophy was won), selling raffle tickets, the Mad Hatter's Ball and Pub Night were all mentioned.

Greg Harness: 1988 He told of another fund raiser when we sold firewood - small bundles of really nice Northern White Birch. Greg remembers because they were not big sellers and he still has 8 boxes of the bundles. Anybody want some wood?

This was an evening full of nostalgia and shenanigans. It was fun to hear of the many projects, some more successful than others, with which our club has been involved through the years. One had to wonder - Why are some of these people not still members of the club? The fellowship and service to our community were obviously important to them. We could benefit from their experience and should do all we can to invite them back.
 

Thursday, April 20^th- Regular Dinner Meeting at Thames Valley Golf Course. Once again an excellent dinner was offered by the chef. During the business section President Rick showed members competitive hockey team jerseys which have been suggested by the Hockey Committee. They differ from the traditional shirts in that flashes of grey and black appear on the lower right and left sides. They are still predominantly red and white. More an issue was the continued naming of the team - Oakridge Outlaws. On the shirt shown this team name was quite evident. There was an overwhelming sentiment that this team name carried with too many negative connotations and was inappropriate. As well all in attendance were surprised that the Optimist name and/or logo was not present - There was agreement the name at least should appear.

President Rick showed members new mugs (Like soup mugs) and pilsener type glasses (with handles) that have been purchased by the club. These will no doubt be treasured by future guests and others who may receive them as prizes or awards.

Past President Don Draper conducted club elections for the 2000/2001 Optimist year. All but the position of president were filled on this occasion. Watch for further coverage of the slate of officers in the next newsletter.

Teen Roller Blading
During the winter months Optimist Kevin Heslop was instrumental in setting up family ice skating at Oakridge Arena. With the absence of ice he has organized a Roller Blading program for youth in the community. The following advertisement appeared in the Spring 2000, SPECTRUM, Recreation Activity Catalogue.  You may want to drop by the arena some Friday night to see another great program offered by our club.

Science 2000
Our club has, in the past, supported the London and District Science Fair. This year the event was held at Wheable Adult Ed. Center April 7^th - 9^th. Top entries from this Fair are invited to be displayed at the Canada Wide Science Fair which is in London from May 13 to May 21, 2000. Activities are in the Alumni Hall Auditorium and there will be participants from all provinces. You may be interested in simply going with your family to see the fine work done by these young scientists aged 12 to 19.If you have the time and inclination to volunteer the co-ordinator is Sue Schofield 661-2111, Exten 86732 or email sjshofi@julian.uwo.ca

The last few bingo "flings" have been very lucrative for us. Remember, we need ten workers at least and when there are more it lightens the work for all. The last date April 29^th, produced earnings of about $1850.

Following are the dates for future bingoes.

May 30, 2000 - 6:15 pm (Teams 3 & 4)
June 17, 2000 - 6:15 pm (Teams 1 & 2)
July 14, 2000 - 9:45 pm (All teams)
August 13, 2000 - 6:15 pm (All teams)
September 02, 2000 - 9:45 pm (All teams)
September 24, 2000 - 6:15 pm (All teams)

During the April Directors' Meeting funding from the Bingo Account was approved for:

Canadian Cancer Society (in memory of Larry Fisher) - $50.00
Walk Against Drugs - $25.00
Children's Safety Village - $1000.00
Carling Heights 11^th Annual Golf Tournament - $100.00 Members attending this event will be subsidized to the tune of $20.00 ea.
London Blizzard Sledge Hockey Program - $200.00
 

Safety on Wheels - An OI Program
This program is intended to promote youth safety regarding all forms of "wheeled" activities. These include bike riding, skateboarding, in-line skating, riding the school bus, and driving and riding in automobiles. Whether from bike, bus, or car, each year, approximately one of four Canadian children receives accident-related medical attention, resulting in combined medical costs of $14 million. This program provides viable projects that address contemporary safety issues. Over 1,400 clubs (U.S. and Can.) participated last year.

Bicycle Safety - The Oakridge Emphasis
On Tuesday, June 13 (9:00 - 11:00 a.m.) we will hold a Bicycle Safety Rodeo at Notre Dame School, just east of the arena on Valetta St. Plans are to set up various courses which test:

Balancing at a slow speed
Circle riding
Maneuvering around obstacles
Braking and steeringTurning with proper signals

Each bike will be given a safety check and the children are tested on general safety knowledge. In past years we have done this initiative in partnership with the Notre Dame Parent Group. If you are able to assist that day, please contact Don Draper (471-1925) or Kevin Heslop (472-2627)

Optimist Walk Against Drugs and Crime
This event took place on Saturday, April 29^th (11:00 a.m.) - from Western Fair. Participants met at the corner Ontario & Dundas St parking lot to walk to Harris Park. Everyone was welcome, especially youth groups. Pledge forms were also available with funds going to Children's Safety Village. This was a wothwhile project which all Optimist clubs should consider supporting in the future.

Celebrations
Happy Birthday to

Rob Stevenson - May 6

Happy Anniversary to

Ted and Patti Riquinha - May 4
Steve and Chantal Cochrane - May 4
Jim and Janine Easton - May 10
Randy and Cathy Brewe - May 31

Congratulations to Eric Riley who had a very successful year as coach of the Clarke Road S.S. Trojans hockey team. They were finalists in the city high school playoffs and won the W.O.S.S.A. championship. Quite a feat in a very competitive area of the province.
 

April Humour

The Sparrow

Once upon a time, there was a nonconforming sparrow who decided not to fly south for the winter. However, soon the weather turned so cold that he reluctantly started southward. In a short time, ice began to form on his wings and he fell to earth in a barnyard, almost frozen. A cow passed by and crapped on the little sparrow. The sparrow thought it was the end. But then the manure warmed him and defrosted his wings. Warm and happy, able to breathe, he started to sing. Just then a large cat came by and hearing the chirping, investigated the sounds. The cat cleared away the manure, found the chirping sparrow and promptly ate him.

THE MORAL OF THE STORY

1. Everyone who shits on you is not necessarily your enemy.

2. Everyone who gets you out of shit is not necessarily your friend.

3.And, if you're warm and happy in a pile of shit, keep your mouth shut!
 
 

Visit to the Doctor

A woman accompanied her husband to the doctor's office. After his checkup, the doctor called the wife into his office alone. He said: "If you don't do the following, your husband will surely die."

1. Each morning, fix him a healthy breakfast.
2. Be pleasant and make sure he is in a good mood.
3. For lunch, make him a nutritious meal.
4. For dinner, prepare him an especially nice meal.
5. Don't burden him with chores as he probably had a hard day.
6. Don't discuss your problems with him.
7. And most importantly, have sex with him several times a week and satisfy his every whim."

On the way home, the husband asked his wife what the doctor said to her.

"You're going to DIE" she replied.
 

Upcoming Meetings:

Wednesday, May 31, 2000 at East London Optimist Hall. Guests will include London Chief of Police Al Gramolini and RCMP Assistant Commissioner Al Hutchison. Cost is $11.00 per person or $19.00 per couple. This will replace our May dinner meeting and should qualify as an official interclub meeting in our achievements this year.

Board of Directors 1999-2000

President Richard Gillespie 641-2815
Vice President
Youth David Gilmore 663-9057
Vice President Ways & Means
Kevin Heslop 472-2627
Past President Don Draper 471-1925
Treasurer/Director Jim Easton 641-0798
Secretary Steve Cochrane 657-8865
Director Rick Harriss 473-2412
Director Eric Riley 472-2025
Director Michael Hoy 471-2712
Director Max Davis 472-9890
Director Peter Hegler 471-4928

Hockey Chair Bob Litvinchuk 474-0255
Baseball Chair Joe O'Neill 641-8441
Soccer Chair Jim Harkin 474-1074

Next Board of Directors Meeting

Thursday, June 1^st, 2000  7: 00 p.m. - Oakridge Arena

Calling List (Updated Feb. 10, 2000)

Team #1
Call Captain
Mike Wolowich (Paula) 473-0769
Fred Fickling (Sheila) 472-1062
Linda Hegler (Peter) 471-4928
Peter Hegler (Linda) 471-4928
John Innes (Carol) 680-7293
Doug McMaster (Joyce) 243-2263
Ted Melchers (Kim) 473-4149
Bob Stark (Leone) 471-5408
Phil Stumpf 679-1539
Bill Tyssen (Cathy) 472-5387

Team #2
Call Captain
Craig Rath (Lisa) 673-6403
Sil Brecevic (Candace) 657-8803
Bill Chantler (Pam) 641-6483
Steve Cochrane (Chantal) 657-8865
Dave Fawcett (Karen) 471-5859
David Gilmore (Jennifer) 663-9057
Rick Gillespie (Mary Anne) 641-2815
Rick Harriss (Dana) 473-2412
Kevin Heslop (Lisa) 472-2627
Alex Poulette (Karen) 672-9596
Rob Stevenson (Donna) 690-0185

Team #3
Call Captain
Dave Kelday (Cathy) 471-2916
John Cameron (Lorraine) 471-4737
Max Davis (Alice Ann) 472-9890
Jim Easton (Janine) 641-0798
Michael Hoy (Mary Beth) 471-2712
Doug Mackay (Judy) 473-5885
Pat Moffatt (Barbara) 657-1147
Bob Moldowan (Patti) 471-0057
Bruce Pope (Mary Ann) 473-2133
Eric Riley (Dana) 472-2025

Team #4
Call Captain
Scott Hessel (Joanne) 641-7870
Randy Brewe (Cathy) 471-7154
Ab Chahbar (Ahlam) 657-1424
Don Draper (Pat) 471-1925
Doug Finlay (Cathy) 657-9078
Ron Fisher 641-2388
Jim Foster (Marie) 472-8347
Ross MacDonald (Svetlana) 657-7117
Ted Riquinha (Patti) 472-6416
Norm Smith (Barb) 473-0899

Please report any errors or omissions to Don Draper (471-1925)
don.draper@sympatico.ca
 

Backwoods High Tech

Backup - What you do when you run across a skunk in the woods
Bug - The reason you give for calling in sick.
Byte - What your pitbull done to cusin Jethro.
Chip - Pasture muffins that you try not to step in.
Terminal - Time to call the undertaker.
Crash - When you go to Junior's party uninvited.
Digital - The art of counting on your fingers.
Diskette - Female Disco dancer.
Fax - What you lie about to the IRS.
Hacker - Uncle Leroy after 32 years of smoking.
Hardcopy - Picture looked at when selecting tatoos.
Internet - Where cafeteria workers put thier hair.
Keyboard - Where you hang the keys to the John Deere.
Mac - Big Bubba's favorite fast food.
Megahertz - How your head feels after 17 beers.
Modem - What you do when the grass gets too high.
Mouse Pad - Where Mickey and Minnie live.
Network - Scooping up a big fish before it breaks the line.
ROM - Where the pope lives.
SCSI (pronounced scuzzi) - What you call your week-old underwear