michigan district

Members are vital to an Optimist Club, the Michigan District, and fuel our youth programs that “Bring out the Best in Kids.” Membership is critical in raising funds which support these programs, and providing leadership for our

organization at the club and district levels.

Retaining members is a challenge. Drops in membership are expected, but how much? Is this within our control? Reasons such as a change of address, death, non-payment of dues, are a reality. Clubs can work alongside members who may have a short term financial situation. Are these members contributing to the benefit of the club in other ways? Can the club afford to carry this member for the short term? Clubs do need to be

fiscally responsible.

We cannot take our Optimists for granted. Everyone needs to feel valued. Optimists want to accept ownership in our activities. Perhaps a member may benefit from a subtle reminder in what attracted them to Optimism. As volunteers we need to enjoy what we are doing, and feel

energized by why we are doing it.

It is a continuous journey to grow our membership. Holding “New Optimist Welcome” (NOW) events ultimately increases individual club membership. Our “Personal growth and Involvement” (PGI) program is another approach to grow in numbers, as well as

leadership skills.

The Michigan District is actively growing in building new clubs. Every new Optimist Club impacts the youth in that community with positive experiences that develop healthy, positive adults. Michigan District Optimist Chairpersons Doris Modrak (Membership), Elaine Lyon and Sue Kardasz (NOW), Michelle Kauffold (PGI),

(Continued on page 2)

Apr/May/June 2016

Opti Views Volume 36, Number 3

“By providing hope and positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in kids.”

Michigan District Optimist International Newsletter

Michigan District

Governor

Steve Sucher (248) 930-4910

[email protected]

District Secretary-

Treasurer

Maggie Rollinger

Immediate Past

Governor

Cherryl Thames

District

Governor-Elect

Monetta Foster

Assistant Governor

Region 1

Jerry Stroik

Assistant Governor

Region 2

Terry Eisen

Assistant Governor

Region 3

Tom Longhway

Assistant Governor

Region 4

Juanita Bell

Inside this Michigan District Issue

Michigan District Governor Steve Sucher

1

District Secretary-Treasurer Maggie Rollinger

2

New Members Listing 3

OI Foundation/ Oratorical Contest / Spouse Youth Activity

4

New Member Listing (continued) 5

Candidate Qualifications / Hall of Fame

6

Junior Golf / Leadership Development

7

Governor-Elect Monetta Foster / Meetings and Convention

8

District Calendar / Michigan JOOI District

9

International Convention

Childhood Cancer Campaign 10

3rd Quarter District Conference Registration

11

Optimist Creed / Newsletter Information

12

www.MichiganOptimists.org

Membership - Right Here! Right Now!

OptiViews - Michigan District Pg. 2 Apr / May / June 2016

Pat Rabaut Miller and Charlie King (New Club Building), and Bob Schiller (Club Fitness Advisors) are happy to present at your club gathering with ideas and insights that

results in excited and active new members.

As Governor, my goal for every local Optimist Club is to earn the distinction as an Honor Club. The requirements to reach this level are: 1) Complete at least three service projects in one Optimist fiscal year; 2) Submit your President’s Pride

Report; 3) Recognize a Club member or local community

individual; 4) Complete and submit your Award Certification

document; 5) Grow your club by net plus one; 6) Remain

current on District and Optimist International dues.

A way to learn about growing membership and developing leadership skills is to attend events offered by

Optimist International. Here are 2 great opportunities:

• Northeast & Great Lakes Leadership Summit/Regional Conference in Niagara Falls, Ontario, April 30, 2016(http://www.optimist.org/summit/SummitOverview.cfm?

e=SUMT&m=NEGL_16)

• The 98th Optimist International Convention, June 30-

July 2, 2016 (http://www.optimist.org/e/Member/

convention1.cfm)

I look forward to seeing Optimists in our Michigan District at each of these fantastic events. Thank you for being

part of our outstanding Michigan District Optimist family.

Sincerely,

Governor Steve

(Continued from page 1)

District Finance Updates

Maggie Rollinger - Michigan District Secretary-Treasurer [email protected] or (586) 436-5613

Hello Fellow Michigan District Optimists,

It is hard to believe that we are through our second quarter already! It’s been a great year! I enjoy serving as our District’s Secre-

tary/Treasurer.

We continue to have some local clubs that are past due on their annual dues. It is appreciated that these dues be paid in full as

soon as possible, as this effects the Michigan District’s cash flow. Also, please contact either Governor Steve, or myself, to let us

know when to expect payment.

Our District has recently purchased a Mixing Board, to be used at Michigan District conferences, to assist our speakers and pre-

senters to be heard by all in attendance. This is an extra expense for our district. In the bigger picture, this purchase of the mixing

board will benefit our district, as it is common for the conference center’s our Optimist’s convene at will charge a hefty fee for

the use of conference center equipment.

We had a great time in Bay City at the 2nd Quarter Michigan District Conference, at Bay Valley Resort. Our guest speaker, Opti-

mist International Vice-President, Ann Donkers, has an inspiring outlook for our Michigan District. It was great to watch Im-

mediate Past Governor, Cherryl Thames, present the awards for her 2014-2015 Optimist year to club members, and leaders in our

Optimist family.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions. I’m happy to help! See you at the Double Tree, in Dearborn.


WelcomeWelcome New Members... Welcome to our Team !

Optimist volunteers continually make this world a better place to live. There are over 70,000 individual Members who belong to more than 2,400 autonomous Clubs. Optimists conduct 65,000 service projects each year, serving six million young people. Optimists also spend $78

million on their communities annually.

Welcome to all our new team members to the Michigan District that were added between 09/01/2015 and 11/30/2015. Sponsors are listed in italics.

ALPENA

Amy Lewis Beckie Thomson William Mott Sanford Mott

AUBURN HILLS Diane Baldwin William Johnson

Clarence Bennett Henry Knight

Sue Jackson William Johnson

Bill Jezdimir Stephen Sucher

Donna Johnson William Johnson

Julie Kelly William Johnson

Angel Lau William Johnson

Samantha Mariuz Thomas Tanghe

AUBURN HILLS-NOON Lisa Calice Karen Adcock

Sylvia Clark Brian Marzolf

BATTLE CREEK Andreas Gikas Miller Jacob

Gerald Johnson Angie Gresly

BATTLE CREEK/HARPER CREEK David Linville David Jaques

BAY CITY

Jill Armentrout Jo Ellen Strieter Joni Klepser Mary Klepser Thomas Klepser George Klepser

Austin Popour Becke Popour

BFT-MASON Betsy Collins Donald Kill

John Kelsey Scott Robinson Mary Kelsey Jamie Robinson

BIRMINGHAM Dolores Greer Early Scott

BRIGHTON Shaun Bhajan Laurie Humphrey Brian Meyers Tim Oetbring Renee Pettengill Lois Todd CARDINAL-SKIDWAY LAKE Jeff Kuhn April Mason

Daniel Seefeld Janet Smith

CENTRAL MACOMB William Konrad Pat Rabaut Miller

Aaron Monacelli Teresa Edwards

CENTRAL DETROIT Bruce Samarian Stacia Little

CHARLOTTE

Barbara Thiel John Thiel

CLARKSTON AREA

Steven Franey Nicole Smith David Johnson John Merz Diane Kaszeta Susan Brady Jessica McDonald Carol Grubba John McDonald Tom Grubba Sean Mueller Donald Brose

Nicole Smith Robin Brose

CLINTON TOWNSHIP AREA

Malita Barrett-Fields Margaret How-

ardGRAND RAPIDS-KENT

Peggy Barber Kathleen Margo Justin Michalski Harry Margo Bob O'Callaghan Harry Margo

HARTLAND

Schlueter Katie Barbara Mattioli Schlueter Lindsay Jan Sifferman

HEALTHY KIDS-DETROIT

Jusna Ali Fatima Plater Dale Johnson Fatima Plater Yvonne Parson Fatima Plater Anjil Smith Fatima Plater

HOLLAND

Michele Chaney Dorothy Darling Bill Huizenga Jim Barry Carol Kragt Wilma Vanloo

JACKSON

Vischer Michael Alan Miltich William Patterson Alan Miltich

KALAMAZOO-BFT

Linda Bley Laurel Jefsen Mark Newhouse Nancy Flipse

LAPEER

Myles Burrough Josh Burrough Eric Mann Josh Burrough Douglas Roberts

DEARBORN

Michel Adams Steve Quinlan Reggie Besst Steve Quinlan Mike Bewick Lori Divis John Cascardo James O'Connor Danene Charles Hannah Hawthorne Abe Mashhour Hannah Hawthorne Glen Meleyko Steve Quinlan Joe Murray Steve Quinlan Jack O'Riley James O'Connor Manual Packnet Barry Hawthorne Heather Quinlan Steve Quinlan

Cristy Rankin Ray Patrick Dalal Sareini Barry Hawthorne Chris Schultz Barry Hawthorne

Gary Woronchak Steve Quinlan

DETROIT-GREATER NORTHEAST

Kimberly Wade Flossie Shannon

DOWAGIAC

Nicole Romo Sandra Hoger Ted Yoakum Steven Grinnewald

EAGLES-EMU

Audrey Dorman Taylor Wagner Cheyenne Giles Taylor Wagner Allison Hoag Taylor Wagner Abbie Minsker Taylor Wagner Kevin Moore Taylor Wagner

FARMINGTON HILLS-BFT

`Jan Corrigan Anna Durham Dan Mosher Thomas Neal Meghan Rhinehart Roxanne Fitzpatrick Marcia Rodeheffer Leslie Rebtoy

FLUSHING AREA

Kenneth Sharp Bill Martin

GRAND BLANC

Ben Clevenger Cathy Lane

Susan Jackson Jane Murphy

GRAND RAPIDS-KENT

Peggy Barber Kathleen Margo Justin Michalski Harry Margo Bob O'Callaghan Harry Margo

HARTLAND

Schlueter Katie Barbara Mattioli Schlueter Lindsay Jan Sifferman

HEALTHY KIDS-DETROIT

Jusna Ali Fatima Plater Dale Johnson Fatima Plater Yvonne Parson Fatima Plater Anjil Smith Fatima Plater

HOLLAND

Michele Chaney Dorothy Darling Bill Huizenga Jim Barry

Carol Kragt Wilma Vanloo

JACKSON

Vischer Michael Alan Miltich

William Patterson Alan Miltich

(Continued on page 5)

New members added between 12//01/2015 and 02/29/2016 (for any errors or omissions check with your club secretary).


When Optimist members, and Clubs, contribute to support the Optimist International (OI) Foundation, they are, with that gift, strengthening clubs throughout OI. Just one of numerous ways to contribute in support of OI, the Dime-A-Day fundraising program, for 365 days, provides a minimum of $36.50 for each Optimist that chooses to participate! That adds up when local clubs see the vision, and understand that Optimist International grants, and funding, can BE THE difference in providing for a child!

Those Optimists that participate with Dime-A-Day giving will receive the exclusive 2016 Dime-A-Day honor pin. Wearing this pin encourages other Optimists to connect with our cause, which is to build resources to benefit children. For checks written to the Optimist International Foundation, please include your club number, and member number. I will

gladly add your name to our growing list of 2016 Optimist donors.

Would you consider joining the prestigious President’s Club, with a cumulative annual gift of $250, and be recognized as an Optimist truly committed to the mission of Optimism? At this level you will receive a lapel pin, and the Limited Edition Collector’s Plate, in appreciation for your generosity.

Our Optimist “Fish Bowl’ raffle is, by far, one of the most successful fundraising efforts at our Michigan District Conferences. I ask for your club’s participation in donating a new item, or gift basket, representing your community, to be given as a raffle prize at our 3rd Quarter gathering, in Dearborn. This is a prime chance to showcase YOUR club, and YOUR town! The true winners are the children, and families we serve. Thank you!

Foundation Supports Optimists! Barry Burnham - Michigan District Foundation Representative

[email protected] or (586) 703-4435

A BIG THANKS to the clubs who agreed to host an Area Contest. Thank you for stepping up! Most of the local club contests have been held in late February or March, due to the Easter holiday and Spring break. The five area contests will take place in April, with the Michigan District Oratorical Contest coming up on Saturday, May 7th, at our 3rd Quarter Michigan District Conference.

The five local areas hosting Oratorical contests are:

Area One—April 16 at 10:00 a.m., Ogemaw heights High School, West Branch. Contact is Charles Snyder ([email protected])

Area Two—No area contest. Please notify me at [email protected] if there is a club that has held an Oratorical contest

Area Three—The Breakfast Club of Kalamazoo (BOCK) is willing to host an area contest if any other clubs in Area Three have held a local Oratorical Contest event. Contact Dan Mill, BOCK Optimist Club, at (269) 720-1914.

Area Four—April 23rd, 9:00 a.m., at Seaholm High School, 2436 West Lincoln, Birmingham, MI, 48009. Contacts are Co-Chairpersons Cherryl Thames (248) 506-5118),

[email protected], and Tom Longhway (248) 568-5608, [email protected].

Area Five—To be hosted by the Dearborn Optimist Club. The contact person is Lori Divis ([email protected]). Please check with Lori for date, time, and location.

The National Association of Secondary School Principals, and the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals have endorsed the Optimist International Oratorical Contest, and have made their staff counselors aware of this competition. In areas of Michigan which do not currently have community based Optimist Clubs, students have contacted Optimists about this opportunity to compete. The Breakfast Club of Kalamazoo (BOCK), recently hosted

students from Albion, MI, at BOCK’s Oratorical Contest.

Only one winner from the Michigan District will advance to the Northeast Regional Contest, to be held in St. Louis, Missouri on Thursday, June 23, 2016. The World Finals of the OI Oratorical Contest are planned for Friday, June 24, 2016.

With any questions regarding the Optimist International,

Michigan District Oratorical Contest, please contact me.

Optimist Oratorical Contest Joette Kunse—Michigan District Oratorical Contest Chair

[email protected]—(248) 620-2984

3rd Quarter Meeting Spouse / Youth Activity Barb Sucher - Chairperson - [email protected]

Meet me on Saturday, May 7th,

9:45 a.m., in the lobby of the Doubletree

Hilton, in Dearborn. We will carpool to

the Arab American National Museum

(arabamericanmuseum.org), which is

about 10 minutes from the hotel. The

museum strives to foster a better under-

standing and appreciation for Arab, and

Arab American culture, through educa-

tion, and presentation of the arts.

After our museum tour we will

gather at a nearby Mediterranean restau-

rant to enjoy a group luncheon.

Ticket price is $8/adult, $4/seniors,

and $4/children (age 6-12), and can be

purchased at the museum. Lunch is at

your individual expense.

Please be aware that no video cam-

eras , flash photography, or food or drink

is allowed in the museum.


Welcome new members…. (continued) Michigan District

KALAMAZOO-BFT

Linda Bley Laurel Jefsen Mark Newhouse Nancy Flipse

LAPEER

Myles Burrough Josh Burrough Eric Mann Josh Burrough Douglas Roberts Pat Coulter

MICHIGAN INT'L ENTREPRENEURS-DETROIT

Airlene Gross Carrol Glispie Carolyn House Lawrence Calfee Tracy Shaw Nolie Jackson Adrienne Watts Cathrine Tilles

MIDLAND

Gina Devereaux Megan Miner

MOUNT CLEMENS

Douglas Hirvo Carolee Schmid Luisa Michelotti Carolee Schmid

MT. PLEASANT

Jason Andrus James Binder Sarah Huyser Heather Graham Kelley Scott James Binder David Wolf Julie Gronda

NEW DETROIT UNITY- DETROIT

Gloria AndersoGloria Benberry Norris Bouler Darralyn Bowers Joan Clark Edwin Cole Johnny Collins Terrye Embry Deitra Covington John Dandridge Lynda Dandridge Ronald Dickerson Jr Terrye Embry Thomas Dorsey Terrye Embry Betty Etheridge Eugene Franklin Francine Guice Gregory Guice Tracey Hamilton Sue Hamilton-Smith Terrye Embry Jacquelina Holt Zelma Hughes Lois Jones David Joseph Mary Knox Jeanette Smith

Thomas Labonty

Peter Mason Aleta Moody Edward Muirhead

Pauline Onyango

NEW DETROIT UNITY (continued)

Dolores Parham Latia Porter Linda Porter-King Fred Robinson Gwen Scales Linda Porter-King Lauren Scales Linda Porter-King Frederick Simpson Priscilla Singer Jeanette Smith Terri Vckers Chesalon Vickers Constance Vickers Earl Washington Gracie Wooten Linda Porter-King

NILES

Sebastian Boling Michelle Morse Stacy Gless Michelle Morse

OAK PARK-ROYAL OAK TWP

Christine Jensen Ron Hardy

Beverly March Dorothy Hardy

OCC AUBURN HILLS

Brandon Cooley Christine Botson

PLYMOUTH-CANTON

Jean Corbitt Pamela Batcho Pamela

ROCHESTER AREA

Kathleen Leighton Bill Staperfenne Jay Mitchell Bill Staperfenne

ROSEVILLE

Dana Freers Teresa Tomala Patrick O'Dell Teresa Tomala

SAGINAW

Andrea Fischer James Kelly Mark Fischer James Kelly

SCOTTVILLE

Donald Justice Nancy Sanford

SHELBY TOWNSHIP AREA

Robert Shelide Kevin Shaw James Swinkowski Kevin Shaw Helena Taminski Barbara Bolhuis

SHELBY

Jim Frank Eric Fox

SOUTHFIELD-LATHRUP

Eman Jajonie-Daman Carlton Orse R. Patricia Johnson Shinholster Molly

Eklund-Easley Willie Simon II Leslie Smith

Leslie Smith George Chapp

ST CLAIR SHORES

Christina Blauvelt Ronald Erney Jennifer Chernisky David Martin Heather Huber Anthony Marchiori David Martin

THE DEVELOPERS-DETROIT

Tabita Andrews Secialue Porter Rufus Bartell Secialue Porter Steven Butler Secialue Porter Nadine Holmes Secialue Porter Ponce Hunter Secialue Porter Patricia Johnson Secialue Porter Kristen Jordan Sonya Jordan Juanita Mersier Secialue Porter Monica Morgan Secialue Porter Gail Norwood Secialue Porter Anthony Williams Secialue Porter Tracey Yurko Secialue Porter

TRAVERSE CITY

Richard White

VETTS-DETROIT

Luke Brown Luquandra Robinson Thomasine Ector Debby Ector Bessie Miller McClenton Miller Jr

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Karen Hanley Bobby Ray Ivory Jr Milton Duerod Meagan Kurnat Nancy Keener Sheryl Mitchell James Orr Dena Raptis Milton Duerod Donna Schaerer Frank Turner Pamela Zajac

WEST BRANCH

Jami Dobson Charles Snyder Elizabeth Gorske Charles Snyder Phil Mikulski Lindsay Abraham Charlie Puzjak Mary Lowery Steven Schrumf Charles Snyder Ken Walters Lynn Holstine

WSU WARRIORS-DETROIT

Deshon Henderson Charles Green

(Continued from page 3)


Candidate Qualifications Hall of Fame

[email protected] or (248) 506-5118, Michigan District Immediate Past Distinguished Governor

Dear Michigan Optimists!

What an amazing celebration, with my family of Distinguished and Outstanding Michigan Optimists at our Awards Ceremony, in Bay City. I felt like Santa’s helper, presenting you the recognition which you have earned. Thank you all again for your dedication and commitment to bring out the best in kids, in our communities, and ourselves!

As Immediate Past Governor, it is my pleasure to serve as the Chairperson of our Candidate Qualifica-tions, and Hall of Fame committees. Please read on to find out how YOU can become a leader in our

#1 Michigan District.

Candidate Qualifications

We’re looking for the Best of the Best!

Men and Women who are willing to accept the challenge of leading the Mighty Michigan District ….and a team where success, work, fun and excitement are synonymous….we want YOU!

Do you have the right stuff? Are you willing to step out of your comfort zone, and positively effect the lives of children and families in your community? If “yes,” you may be a potential leader in our Michigan District, perhaps a District Governor.! Our Candidate Qualifications Committee would like to meet with YOU!

Letters of candidacy are due to the committee no later than April 1st. Interviews will be scheduled for Friday, May 6, 2016, beginning at 3:00 p.m., at our 3rd Quarter Michigan District Conference, at

Double Tree by Hilton, in Dearborn.

Michigan District Hall of Fame

Established to reward good and effective leadership, and to motivate Optimist leaders to continue in lead-ership roles…..we must recognize the rich, and diverse talent of our local clubs and preserve, nurture, and utilize YOUR vision to embrace success. Membership into the “MiICHIGAN DISTRICT HALL OF FAME” creates a momentum and energy that pervades the volunteer spirit, and inspires future Optimist leaders! Optimists may nominate themselves, or be nominated by their club President. All nomination forms must be signed by that club’s President, and be postmarked no later than April 1st, 2016. All qualifying fac-tors shall have been met prior to this date.

Candidates are evaluated regarding club participation, and that individual’s commitment of completed re-quirements for induction. The criteria for induction into the “Hall of Fame” is found in the Michigan District

Directory, and our Michigan District Optimists website, at www.michiganoptimists.org.

Please refer to Michigan District Policies—A2, District Officers: To serve as Governor Elect, one must have served as Club President, and majority/or a full term as Lieutenant Governor, or is currently serving a ma-jority of a full term as a Lieutenant Governor.


Optimist Junior Golf Season Is Underway!! Tom Longhway - CoChairperson - [email protected] or (248) 568-5608 Fred Lyon - CoChairperson - [email protected] or (586) 246-7407

Optimists, this is your shout out! For new and seasoned club members to ASPIRE TO, and STEP UP as leaders in the 2016-

2017 Optimist year! Excellent training, from inspiring Optimists awaits you at the 3rd Quarter Michigan District Conference.

Some additions are still in the works, and we’re planning all of our breakouts to be packed with information, to provide the foun-

dation for leadership growth! Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to find out more about Optimist programs, committees, and

events that can make a positive difference in the life of a child.

Save the date, May 7th, 2016, to learn more about the Optimist:

♦ Personal Growth & Involvement Advancement Module, to be presented by District Chairperson, Michelle Kauffold

♦ President and Lt. Governor combined session for current and aspiring leaders. This session will be led by Asst. Governor’s

Juanita Bell, Tom Longhway, Terry Eisen, and Jerry Stroik.

♦ “Continue the Growth SURGE,” led by Michigan District Membership Chairperson, Doris Modrak

♦ New Club Building, presented by NCB Chairpersons Pat Rabaut Miller, and Charlie King

♦ Secretary/Treasurer insights and updates, - a Q&A session led by Chairperson, Maggie Rollinger

♦ Junior Golf news and information, with Chairperson’s Tom Longhway, and Fred Lyon

Each breakout session provides detailed “how to” planning steps, which result in Optimists developing the confidence and skill

which result in outstanding events with Optimist Club’s district-wide! If you may have any questions, all of our Michigan District

Chairperson’s are eager and available to help YOUR CLUB plan for success. Please reach out to any one of us. We’re ALL on the

same team, to light the way for healthy change in the world of a child!

Plan to FINISH STRONG!

Step Up, and Stand Tall as a Leader(s)

Linda Owczarzak - Leadership Development Chairperson [email protected] or (734) 395-8313

What: Michigan District Jr. Golf Tournament

Where: Metamora Golf and Country Club (www.metamoragolf.com)

When: June 20-21, 2016 (the Monday and Tuesday following Father’s Day)

Who: Boys and Girls, ages 10-18

If you are planning a local Jr. Golf Qualifying Tournament…...WE MUST KNOW the name of your Club and chairperson (with contact information), and the date of your Tournament. Please email to [email protected] an estimated number of golfers you expect will advance to the Michigan District Tournament.. Your club MUST register to hold an official pre-qualifying

Tournament. Clubs need to plan NOW to set a weekend date from April 16 through June 12, 2016.

When we are notified of a local Jr. Golf Qualifying Tournament, all details will be entered on our michiganoptimists.org web-site. A few Optimist Club’s have already registered online. OI has requested that all Optimist Club’s hosting local tournaments help to defray some costs incurred by submitting $10 for each participant to Optimist International.. Each club will need to complete a 2016 OIJGC District Fee Report Form to identify the number of pre-qualifying golfers competing. All checks should be written to Michigan District Optimists. All noted information and documents are available at www.optimist.org. Just go to Programs: Optimist Junior Golf, then How to Qualify for Championships, choose by Location, or Date (June 20-21, 2016),

and to District Tournament Details.

We will be hosting a Junior Golf breakout session at the 3rd Quarter Michigan District Conference, in Dearborn. Please contact either Fred, or Tom, and we’re glad to help your local Optimist Club plan a successful Junior Golf Championship for

2016!


We’re Halfway There! Debbie Berry—Meetings and Convention Chair

[email protected]

It’s time to assess where you and your club, are in Optimism, and perhaps adjust the roadmap for the remainder of the 2015-2016 Optimist year. Are you meeting your membership goals? Are you working to build a stronger, more vibrant club to further the

impact you can have on youth in your community?

The Michigan District Optimist Leadership Team works hard to combine talents, and plan timely breakout sessions at our quarter-

ly district conferences.

Just around the corner, our Michigan District 3rd Quarter Conference, in Dearborn, promises to provide excellent training. for Optimists interested in New Club Building, the upcoming Jr. Golf Competition, Personal Growth & Involvement (PGI), Michigan District leadership, and building club Membership. Our afternoon session will be dedicated to the Michigan District

Oratorical Contest. It will be exciting to cheer on the winners of our local Oratorical contests!

Mark your calendars for May 6 & 7, 2016, at the Double Tree Hilton, in Dearborn. Encourage your local club members to at-

tend and take part in training for future leaders in our #1 Michigan District.. See you there!

Whew!!! The Second Quarter Michigan District Conference is now behind us. I salute Governor Steve, and his team, for a job well done. I’d also like to thank everyone who attended my breakout session, “Catch A Rising Star,” especially each Optimist

that signed the “I Am In” membership pledge. Let’s keep the momentum going.! I’m looking forward to our

district’s Leadership Summit, to be held in Niagara Falls next month, and our 3rd Quarter Conference, come May. A simultaneous push is gaining speed in planning this summer’s officer training for our 2016-2017 Optimist year, which starts October 1st. Several positions are still available to work with my Executive Team. I want to encourage you to take a step in faith. Perhaps you have served on a previous Optimist Executive Team, and would like to pursue a new challenge. Step forward. I

welcome you! The chosen theme for my upcoming year as Michigan District Governor is “Fostering Growth.” The three

goals for my administrative year are :

1.) To increase visibility and recognition of our local Optimist Club’s through Marketing. For some reason, Optimist Club’s are

still the best kept secret.

2.) Strengthen our local clubs from the inside out. What is your WHY? What stirs your soul in your work to serve the children of

your community?

3.) Growing our clubs. With every new Optimist member, at least 30 children’s lives will be Optimistically touched. Our

Michigan District goal is to build to 100,000 members by 2019!

In Donald Dunn’s inspiring book entitled Chicken Soup for the Volunteer Soul, he encourages us to list our dreams and talents, find a volunteer project that best fits our personality, and make a commitment to what we wish to accomplish. It is important that we have confidence in knowing we are making a difference. Balance is key in prioritizing our goals. Stand back, and feel

ownership in creating positive change for children, and families. This is the cornerstone of why we do what we do.

Monetta Foster, Ed.D. Governor-Elect

[email protected] or (248) 505-1584 Michigan District 2015-2016


Michigan District Optimist Calendar

Michigan District Annual JOOI Convention April 16th - Clawson High School

Northeast & Great Lakes Leadership Summit/Regional Conference April 30th - Marriott Gateway on the Falls

6755 Fallsview Boulevard Niagara Falls, Ontario, L2G 3W7

Third Quarter (Apr - June) Michigan District Meeting

May 6-7, 2016 - Double Tree by Hilton 5801 Southfield Expressway, Detroit, Michigan 48228

98th Optimist International Convention June 30-July 2, 2016 - Quebec City Conventions Centre, Quebec, Canada

Fourth Quarter (July - Sept) Michigan District Convention

August 12-14, 2016 - Lansing Radisson 111 N Grand Ave, Lansing, MI 48933

JOOI Michigan Governor’s Report Matthew Jackson - Michigan District JOOI Governor

[email protected]

The Michigan District JOOI community is up to big things this year! Currently, our focus remains on uniting the members of JOOI clubs to diversify, and build strong and lasting connections. To do this, our board members are each assigned clubs to interact with. Board members keep in touch with JOOI Advisors and Members statewide. Our goal is for every JOOI member to have the best experience possible!

Recently, we held our annual Winter JOOI Conference, at Clawson High School, in Oakland county. Club members from throughout our state had a full day of activities. New friendships developed among JOOI members who’d never met before this conference. Board members hosted various breakout sessions that were focused on leadership. A unique activity , we all had the fun opportunity to take part in a Zumba dance class! It was quite the sight watching our Michigan District JOOI Advisor, Rocco Romano, dancing right alongside us!!

Coming April 16th, we will hold our Michigan District Annual JOOI Convention, at Clawson High School. We will elect our JOOI officers for the upcoming 2016-2017 Optimist year, including our own JOOI Michigan District Board, and Governor! It’s exciting to watch JOOI members rise in leadership skills, and have the confidence to accept the responsibility as a JOOI dignitary.

As the current JOOI Board of Officers, we understand and appreciate what a life changing, and life growing, experience JOOI members can realize. Our JOOI forward focused vision can build the game-changers and deal-breakers of tomorrow. The positive attitudes of JOOI members throughout Optimist International will pave the way for generations to come.

As JOOI Governor, I appreciate the energy and momentum each JOOI member has contributed to our purpose of making a difference!

Thank you to everyone for your continued support of our Michigan JOOI District!

OptiViews - Michigan District Pg. 10 Apr / May / June

Re-Connect with your “Why Optimism” in Quebec 2016 Dave Fried—Michigan optimist International Convention Ambassador

david.t.fried.civ@,mail.mil

Optimists worldwide will meet and exchange new ideas at the 98th Optimist International Convention, from June 30 to July 2,

in Quebec this summer.. Our Michigan District Hospitality Suite is funded through the sale of Michigan District Hospitality

Pins, and generous donations from Michigan Optimists.. Donation levels begin at $25 (Bronze pin), $50 (Silver pin), and

$100, or more (Gold) pin. All individuals, club and corporate donations will be recognized at the Convention. Checks can be

written to Michigan District Optimists, with the word “Hospitality” on the memo line.

Online Registration for the OI Convention opens soon. Click on www.optimist.org, for “Early Bird” registration at $250.

“Early Bird,” with 3 meals included, is available at $381. This does not include room fees, or transportation. The annual “Old-

Timers Breakfast,” Appreciation Luncheon, and President’s Banquet events bring Optimists together from countries far and

wide. The Michigan District Hospitality Suite is a longheld tradition at the Optimist international Convention. As Michigan

District OI Convention Ambassador, I encourage your support of this opportunity to show Optimist’s everywhere our heart for

“Bringing Out the Best in Kids.” Donations may be mailed to “Michigan District Hospitality,” at PO Box 4241, Centerline, MI

48015. Come and join us in celebration of our own Immediate Past “Distinguished” Michigan District Governor, Cherryl

Thames, 2016-2017 Governor-Elect Monetta Foster, and her upcoming year of “Fostering Growth,” and current Michigan

District Governor, Steve Sucher. This is an exciting time of exponential growth in our #1 Michigan District. Be part of it!.

Childhood Cancer Campaign Jim Walker—Co-Chair, [email protected]

Jerry Kelley—Co-Chair, [email protected]

First off, I’d like to thank every local Optimist Club in our Great District of Michigan which support the unique and creative fundraising efforts of our Michigan District Optimist Childhood Cancer Campaign. Our Michigan District Childhood Cancer Committee is busy year-long planning fundraising activities, which annually kick-off in June. This year, a new, exciting Walk for Childhood Cancer will take place on Saturday, June 25, at Sky Line High School, in Ann Arbor. This will now be the fifth community in Michigan to

sponsor a fundraiser walk to love on children with cancer.

We are also proud to announce the Optimist Club of Muskegon Heights will host a “West Side Walk” in the beautiful downtown area on Saturday, June 18. Club President Willie Minor said his club is gearing up for a spirited

competition of West vs. East. Updates to follow!!!

In 2013, according to stats given by the American Childhood Cancer Association, nearly 12,000 children under age 15 were diagnosed with cancer. This disease is the second leading cause of death in children younger than 15 years. Accidents precede cancer here. While large corporations and organizations donate millions of dollars toward cancer research, our goal is to reach the children of local communities. Our focus, with the Michigan District Childhood Cancer Campaign, is to continue to support camps which serve children with cancer, and to continue to give sick children hope through our Bravery Beads work. If you may not be familiar with the Bravery Beads vision, whenever one of our (CCC) children endures a procedure or a test, they receive a Bravery Bead, or beads, to add to their bracelet, necklace, or their collection of beads. This magnificent Bravery Bead program builds children’s courage, and a sense of looking to the future in knowing the fear they have overcome. Additionally, through our Childhood Cancer

Campaign, we look to donate Beanie Babies, iTunes cards, and gift cards, books of reflection, and DVD’s, provided by Optimist International, which guide families through “The New Normal” in their lives.

All local Michigan District Optimist Club’s that have sponsored activities, programs, or events in support of the Childhood Cancer Campaign in this 2015-2016 year are eligible to receive compensation. The Michigan District Childhood Cancer Campaign Grant Program, recently established, can reimburse funding to local clubs, for CCC programs. All documents for this grant are available at www.michiganoptimists.org. The minimum to submit for reimbursement is $500, and maximum is $1,000. Please submit applications no later than July 1, 2016.

In the effort to raise funds which support the Michigan District Childhood Cancer Campaign, we ask all local Optimist Club’s to sponsor community events to support children with cancer. One possibility is to form a team of friends, family, co-workers, members of other community-based service clubs, and more to walk in one (or more0 of five (5) upcoming fundraising walks in and around the tri-county area this spring and summer. Individuals, corporations, organizations, families, and more are welcome to submit donations earmarked for the fundraiser walks, to:

Michigan District, Walk for Childhood Cancer 3556 Cloverlawn, Ypsilanti, MI 48197


OptiViews is published quarterly for $5.00 per member, per year, by the Michigan District of

Optimist International, 19812 Rosedale, St Clair Shores, MI 48080

Michigan District Optimist International 19812 Rosedale

St Clair Shores, MI 48080

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 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.

VISIT OUR WEBSITEVISIT OUR WEBSITEVISIT OUR WEBSITEVISIT OUR WEBSITE: Michigan District : Michigan District : Michigan District : Michigan District www.michiganoptimists.orgwww.michiganoptimists.orgwww.michiganoptimists.orgwww.michiganoptimists.org or the Optimist International Website at or the Optimist International Website at or the Optimist International Website at or the Optimist International Website at www.optimist.orgwww.optimist.orgwww.optimist.orgwww.optimist.org

“By providing hope and positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in kids.”

michigan district

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