Bio: I have been a member of the Optimist Club of Des Plaines since November of 2000. It was the oratorical contest that brought me to the organization. My son Zachary, now 17, had competed in it, and as I sat through the practices that lead up to contest night I was impressed at the kindness and dedication of the people that make up this club.

Zack eventually won the local contest three years in a row, and his success inspired his sister, Adrianna, now 11, to begin competing when she was in second grade.

Once I joined, I learned that there is so much an Optimist club does. We sponsor kite flys, fishing tournaments, a golf tourney, an antidrug/alcohol poster contest, eighth grade scholarships, and contribute to a variety of causes from youth sports to the Boy Scouts.

I was asked and honored to be president for two terms, from October of 2004 to October of 2006, and currently serve as Lieutenant Governor for Zone One of the Illinois District.

Joining a service club is something I never would have considered at one time. Now I can’t imagine not being in one. My wife, Judy, was so impressed about the things we do that she joined after I became president and my son will soon become a member as well.

On behalf of the Optimist Club of Des Plaines I invite you to attend a meeting and learn how you too can be part of the organization that dedicates itself to 'bringing out the best in kids.'

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