I S S U E
8
7 T H
J U N E ,
2 0 1 4
Caribbean District News Desk
VOTE
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Service Projects
3
Service Projects
20
Letters
26
Conference: A Spe- 28 cial Review Housekeeping
34
Stay connected
36
Contact Us
16
JULY 10 10--12
PAGE
2
Page intentionally left blank
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
3
SERVICE PROJECTS
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
4
10-12 July, 2014 96th Optimist International Convention
THERE IS STILL TIME Our block at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas is filling up fast; please encourage your delegates to stay in our block and to reserve their room as quickly as possible. Our rate is $119 a night with the resort fee waived & free parking, once the block is full, current average rates at the Caesar’s hotel over our convention nights are averaging $239 per night PLUS the resort fee. http://www.optimist.org/e/member/convention1.cfm
Affectionately known as "America's #1 Success Coach," Jack Canefield will be joining us at the International Convention. One more reason not to miss this event!
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
5
oc of ste. lisi “Lending A Helping Hand”
T
he Optimist Club de Ste. Lisi is pleased to announce that we have successfully presented a much needed donation to Principal Ms. Laura Francis of the Canaries Primary School on May 20, 2014.
In keeping with our mandate “Bringing out the best in kids”, this donation is an opportunity to serve the children, and support the future leaders of our community. President Al gave a short overview of the Club and its activities and encouraged the excited children to remain focused on their work and not to be discouraged.
Mr. Al Elliot (current President) along with Mr. Kevin Haywood (Second Past President) and Ms. Lana Lawrence (Secretary) made the presentation which was shipped from Barbados by our sister clubs.
The donation included of books, pens and markers.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
6
knutsford circle “Labour Day Activity”
H
istory was created in Jamaica on Labour Day, May 23, 2014 when three Optimist Clubs and other interest parties came together to build the first plastic bottle room in Jamaica for the Torrington United Early Childhood Institute.
On Labour Day, the OC of Knutsford Circle, OC of North St. Andrew and the Royal OC of Kingston partnered with teachers of the school, parents, community members, church members, well-wishers and children to make the plastic bottle room a reality.
Approximately 47 people participated beginning at 7:00 a.m. The core set of participants worked with weapons of mass destruction – knives, ice-picks, binding wire, lighters and lit candles while the contracted professionals worked with their tools - electric saw, hammer, nails, tape, screws, etc. We were all engaged in various kinds of work, cutting binding wire in accordance with specified measurements, cutting bottles, punching bottle caps with hot ice-picks, and stringing bottles with binding wire. Yet, the day was incident free!
At mid-day we settled down to a sumptuous meal of rice and peas, baked chicken, tossed salad, water melon and juice, which was preIt all began when PP Valerie of OC North St. Andrew learnt of pared by the school’s cook in the Environmental Club established at the Torrington United the school canteen. Early Childhood Institute by the OC of Knutsford Circle. PP Valerie showed President Una of Knutsford Circle a picture on the internet of a house made from plastic bottles and wondered whether the Clubs could partner to make good use of the plastic bottles collected by the Environmental Club by After the framework of the building was completed, there was making a plastic bottle room for a school. And thus, the idea of an air of anticipation, and much excitement and jubilation to making a plastic bottle room at Torrington United Early see the first length of bottles being installed on the building Childhood Institute was born. frame - history was indeed in the making. We designed as we carried out the work of coordinating which color bottle cap should go on to which bottle, and so on, in order to have a pleasing effect when it was all complete. As the evening drew to its close, we joined hands and hearts together to completely Thousands of plastic bottles ‘bottle up’ the building before dark. At the end of it all everywere gathered used by the chilone felt a sense of achievement, though very tired. It was indren on a daily basis. There was deed a historic day, which was productively spent. much excitement among the parents and guardians as they washed and removed labels from bottles for many days. In Special thanks to: fact, it took them 3 months and Mr. Chad Needham, a recent graduate of the Caribbean one week to wash 5,844 plastic School of Architecture, Utech, who did the design concept bottles in preparation. drawing of the plastic bottle building.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
7
knutsford circle “Labour Day Activity� Mr. Wesley Walker of Dontech Construction Limited, and to his wife PP Gloria, who contributed time and effort in sourcing and preparing the lumber and arranging to have the construction of the framework for the room commence prior to Labour Day.
The two professional workmen contracted who worked throughout Labour Day to complete the building of the framework to accommodate the bottles, all at no cost to the Clubs. PP Gloria, who also contributed all the thatch which will be used for the roofing.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
8
knutsford circle “Read Across Jamaica Day 2014”
A
nnually in Jamaica, the month of May is celebrated as ‘Child Month’ and this year, May 6 was observed as “Read Across Jamaica Day”. Organizations across Jamaica were encouraged to observe May 6 by reading to children in as many schools as possible or wherever children may gather on that day. By so doing, adults set the example for children to develop the habit of reading and to read as much as possible on a daily basis.
The Club was happy to participate in this activity and in keeping with one of the purposes of Optimist International: to aid and encourage the development of youth, in the belief that the giving of one’s self in service to others will advance the wellbeing of humankind, community life and the world.
The Optimist Club of Knutsford Circle participated in the ‘Read Across Jamaica Day’ when President Una spent time with the children of Torrington United Early Childhood Institute, reading to them. Three stories were read to the children and they were asked questions about the stories. Of course, they were very anxious to tell their own stories and were given time to do so. There was much fun and laughter. It was truly fulfilling spending quality time with the children on that day.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
9
96th Int’l Convention JULY 10 10--12
“
VISIT http://www.optimist.org/e/member/convention1.cfm
While you are there…Listen to an Italian serenading you while floating in a gondola through the Venetian's Grand Canal Shoppes for a relaxing and entertaining experience.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
10
oc of st. thomas “Labour Day Activities�
T
L
abour Day saw us going to the Saunders Basic he Princess Margaret Hospital and in particular the School where we were destined to retile a classroom. children's ward has been a constant stop for the OptiWhen we got there and started to remove the tiles we mist Club of St. Thomas. Be it just to read, treat the realized that we were in trouble. More tiles were needed than children at Christmas or just popping in to see them is always we had bargained for but being the Optimists that we are, we a pleasure. set to work with the assistance of Mssrs. Freddie and Houslin.
Children, nurses and parents expressing thanks. This year we wanted to do more and so the members of zone five (5) decided to embark on a walkathon to address some of their needs. On March 15, 2014 at 6 a.m. we stepped out and it was a fun morning for those of us who dared. With money raised, we bought a microwave, some clothes, trays, cups and other things. These were handed over on Saturday May 31, 2014. What a way to finish Child's Month. In attendance were Optimists from St. Thomas and President Pamela from Optimist Club of St. Mathews.
Optimist Audrey handing over utensils to patient Care Asst. Charmain this should make serving refreshments easier
The handcart posse coming from the sea with sand for the workmen
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
11
oc of st. thomas “Child Month’s Award Ceremony”
M
Optimist Tamaula and Veronica making presentation to students of the Golden Grove and Pear Tree River Primary Children and parents enjoying snacks respectively with our guest speaker retired principal looking ay 31,2014 is a day that will be etched in the minds on. of many persons and also one that will go down in history as a first for the Optimist Club of St. Thomas.
President Annesha had a vision to honour the hard working students from various schools in St. Thomas. Especially those schools in rural St. Thomas. Not only for their academic achievement but also for helpfulness, punctuality among others. Even though she is away at present, acting President Sherie, Ltg Marcia and other members decided that they would take on the challenge. So on the last day of Child’s Month May 31, we transformed our meeting place; The Morant Bay Fire Station recreation room into a conference room setting. Fourteen (14) children were awarded with a certificate , gifts and then provided with refreshments. It was pleasing to see the parents coming out to support their children. Although this was a first, it will definitely not be the last as we have decided to make this an annual event.
Parents and students listening attentively
Opt. Audrey presenting to Demisha of Rainbow Kids Centre.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
12
oc of st. john “Adopt A Roundabout Program�
We commenced beautification of the round-a-bout by planting some plants and flowers in May and there is already a welcomed transformation to the area. The second phase of the project calls for members of the Optimist Club, FedEx staff and partners to assist with the continued cleaning, landscaping and painting of the surrounding walls. Phase two continues on Saturday June 14th at 6 am.
T
he Optimist Club of St. John's has partnered up with FedEx to adopt the round-a-bout at the area known as "Buckley Line" on All Saints Road. This road is one of the most traveled main roads in Antigua with perhaps thousands of people traversing daily. The partnership promises a win-win for both organisations in which the Optimist Club of St. John's will maintain the round-a-bout in exchange for an annual financial contribution from FedEx. FedEx will benefit by the round-a-bout being referred to as the "FedEx roundabout" donning the FedEx colors and livery and the Optimist Club will benefit from the visibility with joint signage in addition an annual financial contribution by FexEx.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
13
barbados, south
central circle
“Homework Help”
“Respect for Law”
I
am happy to report that our Chairpersons for Youth Activities and Community Services, Optimists Ingrid and Philip assisted in tutoring four students from our adopted children’s home - 2 boys from The Nightengale Home and 2 girls from Lily Cot - for the just concluded Common Entrance Exam. They commenced these weekly sessions from the last week in February and ended the week before the exam and from all reports, the students were very keen and we eagerly await the results.
We also continued our monthly sessions with the children at Lily Cot; in April we had our Kite Making workshop which was conducted by VP Errol Green and ably assisted by CP Ingrid and Optimist Kimberley.
C
entral Circle had two objectives for Child Month: A presentation for Respect for Law and Staging of a movie.
On Saturday 31st May, we hosted a presentation at the Wortley Park Girls Home which was dubbed "Respect yourself, Respect the Law". The presentation was carried out by Attorney at Law, Mrs. Juliet Rose, and it was well received by the girls, as she encouraged them to set standards for themselves and in so doing to have respect for themselves. She urged the girls to live by their standards and others will treat them based on the images that they portrayed. We presented the house with a suitcase of clothing, ate cake and had some refreshment. A wonderful time was had by all. Leaving Wortley Park Girls Home, we went to the Walkers Place of Safety, a mixed gender home. We INTENDED to stage a movie but experienced a technological glitch which failed us. Instead, we played play ring games, had pop corn, chips and ju
We've also increased our visibility with the creation of a Facebook account, handle central circle optimist...visit and like us!
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
14
barbados, central “Library Handover”
HANDING OVER THELIBRARY AT ST. STEPHEN’S PRIMARY SCHOOL IT IS FINISHED! WE’VE DONE IT! We’ve done it! The Reading Room is finished and was handed over to the Principal, students and Staff at Assembly on Monday, May 12, 2014 by President Toni.. Also in attendance were Optimists Vernese, Merlene and Angela. This was indeed a long labour of love but with Optimist Karen at the helm of this project, we all contributed in some way to the project, and we are pleased to see this day. President Toni presented a gift of new books to the Principal on behalf of the club. Big up Optimist Karen and her team!
The fun times...prepping, painiting, sorting... A book find…..this was from old school days of one member… CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
15
barbados, central “Respect for Law�
M
embers of the Reading Club, the Alpha Club as well as some Cub Scouts from the school were treated to a visit to the Probyn Street Fire Station as part of our Respect for Law activities.
FIRE PREVENTION AND YOU They gathered with excitement on their faces as they prepared for the visit. They were shown around the Fire Station, shown the various pieces of equipment used in firefighting, given a talk on safety, and they made copious notes. Some of the tips given by Sgt. Edwards included checking the Breaker Box in the home by flicking the switches from time to time and the correct use of the fire extinguishers and the different types of fire extinguishers available. A presentation was made to Sgt. Edwards by the President of the Alpha Club. On return to the school the children were treated to snacks. They were given Certificates of Participation and workbooks dealing with aspects of fire safety and prevention. Big up VP Alison and her team!
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
16
barbados, central “PGI with Pivp Carol”
WHO When they come to a NOW meeting what you say to them, how you put the hook into them. Whatever you do, you have to find some way to reach their hearts. Share with them briefly about your club, the District and about Optimist International. And share one or two of the projects that have made a difference to you and the community in which you are working.
P
IVP carol told the gathering at OC of Barbados, Central that in order to complete some of the levels of PGI, one needed to bring in new members. She noted that there is the Who, Why, and How of recruitment. The main thing was to bring in members who were likeminded and were willing to work with children. We were reminded that Membership of the Optimist movement was by invitation. You could invite your friends, but only if they showed a particular interest in working with children. She PIVP Carol emphasized that it is important to bring in new advised against presuming that your friend has the same fo- members to share the load to avoid burnout and to get a crosscus that you have. fertilisation of ideas, get young, old, church persons, get a cross-section of persons. Have fun so that when we work we WHO can relax too. Tell people the truth and bring them in only if they are willing to work with young people.
WHO Tell them our story about optimism and share your passion, tell them that one thing that has made a difference. Just a few sentences as people don’t have time to listen to a long speech.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
17
sunshine oc of cross club roads “Respect for Law & Beach Cleanup”
“Child Month”
As part of our Community Outreach Programme, the Optimist Club of Cross Roads visited the St. Stephen’s Basic Respect for Law School on May 26, 2014 and presented them with a cake for Sunshine Club co-hosted the children “Child’s Month.” St. Stephen’s Basic School is one of our of Marina Brewster Centre, formerly club’s projects and various activities are done throughout the Farrs Children's Home on Sunday, 18 year. MAY and as part of an ongoing "Research for Law" project, a police Optimist Club of Cross Roads Pictures taken at St. Stephen’s officer addressed the children on sevBasic School. eral topics relevant to society as well as to the adults.
Beach Clean up Nothing says team-building like a beach cleanup and have an immediate positive impact on our environment. So the members of Sunshine club took to Brownes Beach, Barbados on Saturday morning at 6 a.m. After a refreshing cleanup, members enjoyed each other’s company with some refreshments.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
18
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
19
falmouth club “Child Month & NOW Meeting�
T
he Optimist Club of Falmouth in April carried out a NOW programme called "Service Can Be Fun" where we ventured on an excursion to YS Falls and Little Ochi in St. Elizabeth. A total of 22 persons including prospective members were aboard the trip and three expressed wishes of being part of this noble movement. Looking forward to great things!
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
For Child Month we took on the task of showing the parish of St. James what Optimists do. So on Labour Day, May 23rd we ventured out to give the Cornwall Basic School a much needed facelift. We painted, brushed the property and refitted the pay area which had dismantled swings, slides and see -saw. We even did some drain cleaning. La Maison Property, Sherwin Williams along with other partners and club members rose to the task and we took on a job valued at more than JM$100,000.
DESK
PAGE
20
south circle “Child Month & Inter-clubbing”
Hampden Basic School Freezer Presentation; our first donation to the School, a new deep freeze.
Labour Day Project President Lloyd and South Circle members volunteering at the Tacky High School in St. Mary on Labour Day
Inter-clubbing to create camaraderie
Hampden Basic School Treat
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
21
barbados, north “Respect For Law�
I
n observation for Respect for Law, The OC of Barbados, North facilitated a presentation to the students of Coleridge & Parry School. The presentation was made by the Community Officer for the parish of St. Peter to the General Assembly where some 700 hundred plus children were in attendance.
Respect for self The Officer spoke to the assembly about respect providing as his basis, his belief that respect does not exist in a vacuum but rather begins with one's perception of one's self; addressing such areas as, dress, manner and attitude, the officer made it clear that in order to understand respect one must first have respect for self. Illustrating his presentation with examples to which students could relate, the Officer made it clear that an individual's path in life would be frustrating and unproductive without respect for self and others.
Respect for law The Officer made it clear that the individual's respect for justice is firmly rooted in his/her exposure to the judicial system even as they related to obeying rules and regulations laid out by school authorities and for those who enforced them. The students listened attentively to the presentation and at the end a number of them asked for permission to speak to the Officer on issues surrounding his presentation. The audience included not only 11 - 16 year old students but also adults employed by the institution. The Optimist club of Barbados North wishes to extend its gratitude to Officer Maynard of District E who kindly consented to deliver the presentation for 2014.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
22
progressive “4th Anniversary celebrations�
O
n the 27th May the Optimist Club celebrated its fourth anniversary. Members outdid themselves in observing their anniversary by participating in a number of projects.
Progressive 20/20 The club resumed its Pro-
gressive 20/20 Vision project by screening the children of Milton Lynch Primary School. The initiative entails Optimist members performing vision screening sessions to identify students who may have a vision impairment. If the screening suggests that a more detailed examination is warranted by one of the partnered Optometrists of the initiative, the student is given a letter of referral to take home to his/her parent asking the parent to take the child in for an examination. If it is deter-
Internet Safety
M
embers invited the children of Grantley Prescod Memorial, Charles F Broome Memorial and Wilkie Cumberbatch Primary Schools to the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre to be educated about good practices of internet safety. They were treated refreshments afterwards. The project was organized CP Toni Lashley.
Environmental Project
T
he club organized its Environmental activity with Ace 20/20 initiative will provide that student with their prescripRecycling Plant in Guintion glasses (examination, lens and frames) at a significantly ea, St.John. They began sponsor subsidized price of less than U$50. their journey at 7:45 a.m. to Ace with their Rural adopted families, Respect for Law (children and parents). There, they were divided ollowing a preseninto two groups and assigned the tasks of either separating tation by Officer plastic from paper or sorting paper and card into various cateJohnson from the gories (color, texture etc.) for baling. Royal Barbados Police mined that the student requires glasses, the Progressive
F
Force at the Sharon Moravian Primary School, the children were asked to depict their understanding of the message shared by use of drawing, poetry or essay composition. Entries were judged and the children awarded for their efforts.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
The group was advised that these bales would be sent to places as close as Guyana in the Caribbean or to distant places such as Korea. After this 2hr.assignment they made their way to Barclays Park on the East Coast via a scenic coastal route which took them to St.John's Parish Church. There they relaxed and had lunch and enjoyed the fellowship in the Park for a further 2hrs before returning home. DESK
PAGE
23
progressive “4th Anniversary celebrations”
Church Service
O
n Sunday 25th the Progressive OC members observed their 4th anniversary by giving thanks at the St. Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church.
Induction Ceremony During the sermon, they were told that love is shown by action instead of reciting beautiful words and so they showed their love for community by inducting thirteen (13) new
members to their Optimist family at a luncheon later that day at Divi South Winds.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
24
Page intentionally left blank
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
25
3rd QTR Conference (Antigua)
FEEDBACK Special REVIEW By Optimist Merlene Hercules
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
26
Letters Optimists All, We are nearing the end of the 3rd quarter in our 2013/14 year. Let us revisit our plans so that together we can celebrate our accomplishments. When we look at the many wonderful projects serving the children of our Caribbean District we know that Optimism is alive. Our signature programmes, CCDHH and Essay and Oratorical contests are simply amazing. Sincere thanks to Chairpersons Margaret, Jason and their outstanding Teams. The 3rd quarter conference held in Antigua was awesome, filled with excitement, fun, fellowship and leadership development. Your participation made it all possible. My sincere appreciation goes to our leadership team, Past IVP Dr. Carol Haynes, Past Governor Joseph Benfield, Governor Elect Barbara Arrindell and International Vice President Lois Philbrick. My gratitude towards the conference team ably led by Chairperson Genevieve is unending. The feedback that has been shared proves that “We’ve Got It!’’ We’ve got whatever we need. In most cases we simply need to look inside ourselves and yes we must believe. As our IVP has stated “Dream it, Believe it, Achieve it.”
President Charmaine’s Conference experience – in a few words “conference was extremely informative” My experience at my first district conference was an awesome one! I found my fellow Optimists so warm and welcoming - living the words and the essence of the Optimist Creed. The conference was extremely informative and interactive. The speakers were very knowledgeable about their topics and gave great presentations. I felt that we were being prepared to deal with every area of life. I left the conference motivated to go back and try to put my club and my life in order. I also enjoyed the fellowship which was rich and stimulating. But I had one disappointment; the time was too short. There was so much to be gained from attending. When the opportunity arises I will be attending another conference again.
Many thanks to our Communication Team Darshani and Andrea for their creativity, interesting and exciting newsIn Optimism, letters and quarterly magazines. Let us continue to give President Charmaine support to our dedicated Lt. Governors, Presidents and their Clubs for serving the youth in their respective com- Optimist Club of Anguilla munities. Optimism is a journey, it continues; we must re-energize ourselves, share our dreams, projects and enthusiasm. If longevity is our goal we must encourage others to join our movement, reduce our loss of 330 members by “each one bring one.” I invite you to attend International convention if at all possible. I also encourage you to attend 4th quarter conference as Governor Elect Barbara is installed. She is ready to take up the challenge; let us present to her a vibrant Caribbean District. Your presence would mean a lot to her and to me.
President Charmaine Rey-Richardson has been a member of the Optimist Club of Anguilla for exactly two years – joining in June 2012. With less than a year of Optimism under her belt, she took on the challenge to lead her Club. These are her impressions of her first District Conference as a firsttimer.
Yours in Optimism,
Governor Nutilia Caribbean District Governor
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
27
Letters “an experience I will treasure for all time” Director Barry and I attended this conference and what a pleasure it was to have participated. From the warm Antiguan welcome with red carpet treatment, the great hospitality, to being pampered and accommodated at every turn, it has been an experience I will treasure for all time. The scheduling of the agenda, the speakers, the quality workshops, the accommodations and the food (exercise and diet in order) the fun and fellowship, oh did I mention the "The location - Trade Winds Hotel" a must stay and excellent boutique hotel with a stellar view.
“program was well planned and executed ” I can say that the conference in Antigua was great, the largest contingent coming out of Barbados. The program was well planned and executed despite the inherent challenges.
In Optimism,
Secretary Lana Optimist Club of Ste. Lisi
The highlight in terms of the workshops were the presentations by our own Certified Trainer PIVP Carol Haynes on New Club Building - Reason we build clubs and PG Joseph Benfield on We are moving on UP - Money Matters - powerful insights.
In Optimism,
President Charmaine Optimist Club of Barbados, South
Optimist Lana Lawrence represented Optimist Ste Lisi at the 3rd Quarter OI Caribbean District Conference, which was convened at the Tradewinds Hotel, St John’s, Antigua. Optimist Lana reported that her main reason for participation was to capitalize on an opportunity to collaborate with the Caribbean District and to keep the optimism alive despite the challenges.
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
28
A Review
by Opt. Merlene
erally energetic, enthusiastic and passionate. They also work to help each member of the group to succeed. It is a team effort. Some of the attributes of this type of leadership as first enunciated by James Burns, would involve:
Idealized
influence: the leader must walk the walk
with honesty, integrity, decency and humility
Inspire
motivation: in addition to leading lives that are
beyond the leader’s charisma was important Where 29 or 30 are gathered, Caribbean optimism will always shine through and this was the programme for the weekend.
Individualized
consideration: genuine concern for the
needs and feelings of their followers
Twenty-nine Optimists from three zones and four islands came together for a wonderful weekend of optimist fun, fellowship and training.
Intellectual
stimulation: the leader challenges follow-
ers to be creative and innovative
True enlightened leadership is deeply spiritual. It We were warmly welcomed at the airport from the Immigraindicates that ultimate guidance emanates from a higher tion Officer who also happened to be the President of the St. source – God. All our actions are directed towards a just John's Optimist Club. It was awesome! It set the tone for the end. weekend! Governor Nutilia welcomed us into her home with a fabulous reception complete with We heard the group called WAR - Women Against Rape and live music from one of the Steel how we must support its efforts to eradicate that scourge bands made up of young people " called rape. Golden Sticks " from the Music GLEE CLUB PERFORMACES Academy "La Chateau D'or" The opening session was great. We laughed, some got emo- The performances from members of the Glee Club from the St. tional when they spoke, and others just cheered. Joseph’s Academy brought OPENING CEREMONIES tears to some eyes as those three We heard from some dynamic guest speakers and certified young men sang their hearts out. optimist trainers who were all willing to share their They thrilled us with songs like “I believe”, Stand by Me, Ain’t no knowledge and experience with us. Sunshine when She’s gone. From the opening guest speaker, Ms. Gail Christian, who spoke about what she called the role model definition of a Together they rendered the popular Hymn “I Surrender all” Leader: She said that leaders must provide proper guidance and quoted from Rudyard Kipling’s poem IF “Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken, and stoop and build 'em Lt. Col Edward Croft, Director of Office of National Drug and Money Laundering Control Policy (ONDCP), shared up with worn-out tools” some startling statistics about the drug trade (drug awareness We heard how the Region is in need of transformational leadand detection) in the Caribbean and how we as Optimists ership. This is a type of leadership style that could inspire could help to stem the tide and save our youth. We heard positive changes in those who follow it. Such leaders are genabout the innovative ways in which drugs are transported CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
29
A Review across our islands and throughout the world.
by Opt. Merlene
Darshani was commended for the work that she is doing with the District Newsletter .
GOVERNOR’S ADDRESS
INT’L VICE PRESIDENT LOIS PHILBRICK IVP Lois Philbrick taught us a new chant and it goes like this: Good job, good job (clap hands loudly), Good job, good job (clap hands loudly) G o o d j o b (letters spelt out) Good job, good job ( clap hands loudly) Members used this chant as often as they could to affirm one another.
Governor Nutilia shared some of the poem Don't Quit:.
IVP Lois spoke about acronym for our Motto for this year – We’ve got it!:
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will, When the road you're trudging seems all uphill, When the funds are low and the debts are high,
W - Welcome
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
E - Every member, every child deserves a reason to grow,
When care is pressing you down a bit-
each of you take responsibility for spreading the message of optimism ‘ (apostrophe) adds two words together to make one much like working together to facilitate growth and new projects makes two people or more a team
Rest if you must, but don't you quit. Life is queer with its twists and turns, As every one of us sometimes learns, And many a fellow turns about
V – Vaccillate – don’t vacillate, don’t waiver, it can also
When he might have won had he stuck it out.
mean varnish as in polish your optimist story with every person you meet.
E – Each one, just ask She noted that as she looked around the room she realized G – Get up and get going, the time to take action, it could that each of those present could have been elsewhere, but also mean goal for your personal growth and involvement that we chose to attend the conference and that showed comgoal or the goal of your club and district mitment. We may be small in numbers, but our hearts are big. Today, we meet as representatives from St. Lucia, An- O – Opportunity everyday for sharing the good news of our guilla, Antigua, Barbados. Other will join us on Skype. outstanding organization The theme for the Conference was “Give us a minute of your T - Together, work as a team time and we will make you a leader”. We declared that we were passionate about optimism and we can change the I – Invite, inclusion, it is imperative to value the time and course of our Clubs. We heard that not one cent will be talents of members, innovative ideas sought from the District coffers for this conference. Governor Nutilia was heartened to read each month about the amazing T – Today, the time to start is TODAY! projects that the clubs around the Caribbean were doing. CP CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
30
A Review
by Opt. Merlene
We were encouraged to ignite our optimist flame, start today to make a difference.
♫Walk in the light, walk in the light ♪♪
PIVP Carol dealt with New Club Building. Yes brothers and sisters, we need to keep on building clubs around the Caribbean. There are many more children waiting to be served. Saturday evening was a treat to lime at Beach Limerz at Fort James and members enjoyed it to the fullest.
♪♪Walk in the light, walk in the light of the Lord♫♫
Sunday morning coming down On Sunday, May 25, we worshipped at the Holy Family Cathedral, Roman Catholic Church, Father Lawlor in St. John's. The service was lively, the sermon appropriate as the priest spoke to us about three aspects of the commandments. We heard that: 1)
If someone strikes on the cheek we should turn the other cheek
2)
The commandments are a guide to us. We should not seek revenge against someone who has wronged us. When we dig a grave, dig two: one for the person who wronged you and one for yourself.
3)
The commandments are an invitation to live.
We were privileged to witness the handing over of a banner and gavel to the President of the Antigua Girls High School JOOI Club.
He quoted from LOVE vs Fear by Sarah Nean Bruce Wait, did you hear about Oratorical Chair Jason? Well it was time for email etiquette. He reminded us about the use of Reply to All and the damage it could cost if not used wisely. Members chimed in with their own questions and suggestions about email use. It was very refreshing and informative. God job, good job, Jason!
Fear tends to paralyse, love releases Fear imprisons, love frees us Fear wounds us and love heals us Fear avoids, love invites.
Slogans GE Barbara challenged us in groups to come up with slogans After the service we gathered on the church steps for a group that we can use. One group got creative and sang their slogan. photo, we just burst into song singing the chorus of the hymn we had just sung in church. MONEY MATTERS It was the first time many of us had heard the song. Still it Then it was time to talk with straight talk PG Joseph talking about money matters. This was a lively interactive session. just resonated with us. We heard that we should invest more and make the It goes like this: most of what we have. Above all we should enjoy ourselves. Have fun. Do everything with joy and be successful. CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
31
A Review We were advised to shop smarter; land is the best collateral we could have. He told us that we ought to keep a daily log of our expenses for a week and look at where we are spending our money, see what we could eliminate and watch our savings grow.
by Opt. Merlene FINAL WORDS
IVP Lois giving us some parting words of advice and Governor Nutilia sending us on our way with words of encouragement and ending with the final words from the Poem Don’t Quit:
Don't give up though the pace seems slow You may succeed with another blow. Often the goal is nearer than It seems to a faint and faltering man; Often the struggler has given up When he might have captured the victor's cup;
Visualize it! Visualize wealth and abundance every day
And he learned too late when the night came down, How close he was to the golden crown.
Never sway you are poor Do what you love.
Success is failure turned inside out -
Set short-term and long-term goals (put your goals as your screensaver to remind you of them)
The silver tint in the clouds of doubt,
Get organized! Be tidy and efficient!
It might be near when it seems afar;
Do your homework about investments that are covered by regulators
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit -
And you never can tell how close you are,
It's when things seem worst that you must not quit.
You cannot multitask and do anything properly. Get focused! Put another name someone you trust) on your account to stop you from shopping recklessly on things you do not need. Recognise negative trends and arrest them.
Lunch was at Optimist Evron Zacchariah’s home – a treat not to be missed. I heard many Optimists remarking on the overwhelming generosity of the Antiguan optimist during the weekend. That’s what we do as Optimists!!
Here are some gems: (Special report by Optimist Merlene Hercules)
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
32
Page intentionally left blank
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
33
Housekeeping
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
34
2014-15 LOGO DESIGN COMPETITION WINNER Three designs were submitted in response to a logo design competition held by Governor Elect Barbara and DST-Designate Jason. The objective of the competition was to have a logo designed through the input of members that would be used to create pins/ banners/ letterhead and other items for use during the 2014/15 "Step by Step" administrative year. The 2014/15 Team is pleased to confirm that the
Heather and Kenneth Walker (Sunset Liguanea) has been sedesign submitted by
August 9 – 10, 2014 4th Qtr Convention Jamaica
lected as the winner. Enormous gratitude goes out to the others who took time to submit designs. We trust that your talent can be used in some other way throughout the year and Block your calendar and prepare for a weekend of amazbeyond. ing training and fellowship:
?
Reports from current officers Let’s Welcome our OI Rep Let’s elect a new GE Witness the presentation of the 2014/15 LtGs Don’t miss the Installation Ceremony for Governor. Barbara / DST Jason and the entire “Step By Step Team”
The winning design will be unveiled at the 2014/15 Team Installation Ceremony during the 4th quarter convention (August 9th & 10th) in Jamaica. CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
35
Online Elections NOW OPEN Election for OI President Elect, two (2) OI Board Directors and Vice President is now open. Please encourage your Clubs to cast their vote online. Any Club that is in arrears of dues will become eligible to vote once the Club pays their dues. All eligible Club Presidents have received their logon and password email. If your Club President has not received the voting email, please have your President insure his/her email address is correct on the Club’s online database. http://www.optimist.org/e/member/elections1.cfm The election firm will update/email the Clubs 3 additional times during the month of June.
Board of Directors Members (2 to be elected): Judy Boyd (Urbandale, Iowa) Don Brose (Clarkston, Michigan) Sue Creswell (Reading, Pennsylvania)
Adrian Elcock (St. Thomas, Barbados) Esthermarie Hillman (Tucson, Arizona)
UR O Y T S S E A T C O V
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
36
Stay Connected Barbican Pines Optimist Club Caribbean District Central Circle Optimist Club Optimist Club of Barbados, Bridgetown Optimist Club of Barbados North Optimist Club of Cross Roads Optimist Club de Ste Lisi Optimist Club of Harbour View Jamaica Optimist Club of North Padmore Optimist Club of North St. Andrew Optimist Club of UWI, Mona Progressive Optimist Club of Barbados Rising Optimist Club of Moneague Royal Optimist Club of Kingston, The (R.O.C.K) South Circle Optimist Club St. Ann’s Bay Optimist Club Sunset Optimist Club of Kingston
Add your club’s Facebook page here Darshani@jillandee.com
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
PAGE
37
Creed
CARIBBEAN
DISTRICT
N EWS
DESK
Purposes of Optimism
To develop optimism as a philosophy of life utilizing the tenets of the Optimist Creed;
Optimist International Caribbean District
ernment and civic affairs;
to inspire respect for the law;
to promote patriotism and work for international accord and friendship among all
The Secretariat
people;
36 1/2 Lyndhurst Road, Kingston 10
to promote an active interest in good gov-
to aid and encourage the development of
Phone: 1-246-836-9005
youth, in the belief that the giving of one’s
Skype:
self in service to others will advance the
darshaniworkman
E-mail: Darshani@jillandee.com Whatsapp: 1-246-836-9005
well-being of humankind, community life and the world.
Bringing Out the Best In Kids We’re on the web! http://oicaribbean.wix.com/ caribbeandistrict#!