Fellow Optimists, Former Optimists, and Family Members of Optimists:

It was a hot and humid day in June of 1919 when delegates from 11 Optimist Clubs gathered in Louisville, Kentucky to officially organize the International Optimist Club—known today as Optimist International. As we look forward to the celebration of our 100th Anniversary as an organization, Optimists around the world are making plans for a Centennial Celebration to be kicked off at our 100th International Convention to be held in Ottawa, Ontario from July 8-10, 2018, and to culminate at our 100th Anniversary Celebration to be held in Louisville from July 1 to 3, 2019.

I have agreed to volunteer my time to write a special Centennial Book in honor of our 100 years of Optimism and I would sincerely appreciate your help in gathering information—Right Here, Right Now!!! Although I am using original documents, newspaper articles, the Of Dreams and Deeds book written in 1966, the 75 Years of Optimism in Canada booklet, and similar sources, I would sincerely appreciate receiving additional information from our members, former members, and families of members that would be of general interest to those who read the book. Information and supporting material (such as photos or news articles) can be sent to:

CentennialBook@optimist.org

Suggestions regarding the type of information that may be of interest to readers include:

-Info regarding the original Optimist Club(s) in your District;

-Notable Optimists from your Club or District.

-Famous participants in Optimist programs.

-Significant milestones in your Club or District.

-Biographical info on Past International Presidents, International Vice Presidents, International Board Members, Top Governors, etc.

-Interesting stories regarding youth programs and community service.

-Info re JOI and our Signature Programs.

-Info regarding the Opti-Mrs.

Thank you all for your assistance and Happy New Year!!!

Dave Bruns