Looking back at 75 years of The Paris Optimist Club

Looking back at 75 years of The Paris Optimist Club

Paris holds the distinction of being the 831st club to be chartered since the establishment of Optimists International in the early 20th century. With its humble beginnings, the club started in 1949 with 22 charter members and received sponsorship from the Brantford Optimists, who had been chartered 11 years prior. Carson Luke, a former member of the Brantford group, was elected as the inaugural president. The charter presentation was a grand affair, led by Past District Governor Al Grant from London, since the incumbent district governor, Dr. Donald J. Twin, was attending an international convention in San Francisco. Under the guidance of Clarence Elliott Hamilton, a past district governor from 1927, the club installed its first set of officers. This dedicated team consisted of President Carson Luke, First Vice-President James A. Telfer, Second Vice-President J.C. Webster, Secretary George MacLeod, Treasurer Gordon Cruickshank, Chaplain Rev. Norman Brook, and Sgt-At-Arms

Skating behind the Syl Apps Arena c1970s. In the scene is the Optimist Hall & Annex. Today only the Annex remains on the left. Behind them were the Penmans No. 2 & 3 Mills, The Annex was once a sales room for Penmans.

Mervin Willson Charles E Ward, the secretary of District 15, graced the charter event as the guest speaker, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and upholding the ideals of Optimism. The formation of the Paris Optimist Club was driven by three primary motivations: a personal desire for expansion, recognizing the need for positive leadership for youth, and the commitment to being a "Friend of Youth " The guest speaker passionately highlighted the significance of providing guidance and positive influence for young people, molding their thinking for a lifetime. To symbolize the international scope of Optimist clubs, Brantford President Fred Pollard presented a Union Jack flag,

while Stan Eccles, the president of the Toronto Uptown Optimists, presented an American flag. Ray Rivers, the president of the recently chartered Galt club, presented the gavel and led the club in song.

Mayor William England of Paris extended warm congratulations to the newly chartered club and assured them of the continued cooperation of civic bodies within the town. The charter event took place at the meeting place of the Brantford Optimists and attracted Optimists and their spouses from various locations, including Delhi, Hamilton, Galt, London, Woodstock, Toronto, Windsor, Paris, and Brantford. Numerous

LOCAL HISTORY

telegrams of congratulations poured in from other clubs and international officers, including District Governor Twiss, who was en route to the international convention, and Milton Morris, the international president, along with several other Ontario clubs The celebratory evening was filled with joyous activities, including a singsong led by Pat Harvey, accompanied by Ted Foster on the piano. The entertainment showcased vocal solos by Ruth Joslyn from Brantford, captivating performances by the "Sapp Gang" with Frank Holton on the piano, and delightful comedy piano selections by Howard Kew from Delhi. Rube Page from Brantford and Mervin Willson served as sergeants-at-arms, ensuring a smooth and organized event.

Over the course of 75 years, the Paris Optimist Club has played a vital role in the community The club has contributed to numerous projects, including funding a new ice plant for the Paris arena, installing lights for the little league baseball park, and providing heaters for the Syl Apps Community Centre seats. Additionally, the club has actively sponsored various youth sporting teams. Members of the club have been esteemed participants in local parades and the Paris Fair, riding in the rebuilt McComb's ice cream wagon, which has become a symbol of recognition and pride.

Reflecting on the club's history, Wilt Dawdy (see page 16), a dedicated member for 35 years, emphasized the importance of camaraderie and the club's respected status within the town Dawdy, who

had served as president five times during his tenure, noted the personal growth and educational benefits he derived from the club. He expressed how the Optimist Club transcends barriers, welcoming members from all walks of life, and encourages active involvement based on individual availability Another member, Gerald Price, highlighted the club's commitment to family, job, and community, stating that any contribution, no matter how small, is appreciated.

In addition to fostering an active interest in good government and civic affairs, the Paris Optimist Club has organized events such as Youth Appreciation Days, where teenagers were honored as honorary mayor, fire chief, police chief, and reporter. These events have instilled in young people the importance of community engagement and working together towards community betterment The club has actively developed leadership skills and forged lasting friendships Many dedicated members have remained with the club for several years, exemplifying their commitment to its beliefs and values. Ted Cole, the sole surviving original Paris charter member in 2005, shared a humorous anecdote of his early involvement, recounting an incident where he fell through the ceiling and broke both his arms while working on the upper floor of the clubhouse.

Noteworthy for his unwavering dedication, Harry McKinnon held a perfect attendance record at Optimist Club meetings for an impressive 43 consecutiveyears Even in 2005,he

continued to pay his dues, showcasing his unwavering commitment. The club itself came into existence through a door-todoor fundraising campaign, with local Boy Scouts contributing their paper drive funds to support the Optimistproject

Throughout its history, the Paris Optimist Club faced challenges and triumphs. In 1974, the club experienced flooding when the Grand River overflowed. Despite this setback, the members remained resilient, showing their dedication by paddling a canoe in the flooded clubhouse. In subsequent years, the club successfully raised funds for significant community projects. In 1977, they raised $50,000 for a new ice plant in the Paris arena, and in 1978, $14,400 was collected to install lights in the Little League Park

Looking back at 75 years of remarkable service, the Paris Optimist Club remains a source of inspiration and support within the community. Their commitment to fostering positive leadership, embracing community involvement, and nurturing the youth has left a lasting legacy. The camaraderie and educational opportunities provided by the club have shaped the lives of its members, promoting personal growth and the development of essential communication skills. With its inclusive nature and dedication to the betterment of society, the Paris Optimist Club has transcended barriers and continues to stand as a respected organization cherished by the community