2008-2009 Governor's Message

 

Oklahoma Friends of Youth:

The theme for the new Optimist Year is "Give me 'Five' for the Kids." The idea is to high-five everyone you meet, and seek five new members for each existing member. By increasing the number of active Optimists, we can touch and help the lives of more children, especiallly those who really need our help.

I look forward to working with all the clubs throughout the year. We have a splendid opportunity to expand Optimism in Oklahoma and really make a difference in the lives of children we reach--and bring out the best in kids.

Guiding the Oklahoma District this year is a dedicated team to aid me in working with your Clubs. It starts with my Assistant Governor, Leonard Casey (also a past Governor), and our Secretary/Treasurer, Larry Rahmeier. And, all the committee chairs are filled by willing members ready to serve your clubs. We stand ready to assist you with any special requests. Please use this web site or the Oklahoma District Directory to find the person best to serve your club needs. Feel free to call on us to make your wishes known. During the year I plan on visiting and working with each club in the District.

The promotion of optimism starts with you and me. Together we can make optimism grow in Oklahoma for a brighter future for our youth. I ask each Club to make a commitment to add six members on their roster during the year. This grow our district by over 180 members. Each member will help your club do its great work--strengthening all our clubs.

Optimists, please keep in mind that: (a) We are all sharholders in Optimist International and in particular, the Oklahoma District; (b) our profits are our membership and youth activities; and (c) our dividends are the number of youth we will reah this year.

I also ask each Club to send as many members as possible to your District Conferences and Convention for special training. Or, just attend to know what other Optimist Members are doing to make their clubs successful. Please make note of the special dates for our District Meetings on our calendar page on this site. Plan to attend, make new friends, and enjoy optimism.

In Optimism,

Tim Pate, Sr.
2008-2009 Governor of the Oklahoma District of Optimist International