As we enter the fourth quarter of the 2025–2026 Optimist year, I want to reflect on what has been a successful, though at times a challenging, year for our District.
Honouring Those We Have Lost
This year has brought both triumphs and hardships. We have sadly lost several Optimist members whose commitment, friendship, and service helped shape our clubs and communities. Their contributions will not be forgotten. We continue to mourn their loss while also celebrating the lasting impact they have had on the lives of others. On behalf of the CENON District, I extend our sincere gratitude to the families and fellow members who have supported us through these difficult times.
Past Governor Ted Simmonds will lead a memorial service for these members during the convention in Morrisburg, August 14–16.
Reasons to Celebrate
- We have successfully chartered two new Optimist Clubs: the Stormont Community Optimist Club and the Augusta Optimist Club. This achievement shows that the Optimist spirit remains strong and that communities continue to recognize the value of bringing out the best in our youth, our communities, and ourselves.
- Throughout the year, our clubs have continued to provide outstanding service through youth programs, community projects, fundraising activities, and volunteer efforts.
- Membership has grown in several clubs. To date, we have recruited 164 new members and lost 92 members, including 10 who passed away, for a net growth of 72 members. With these remarkable results, we remain the number one district in all of Optimist International for new member growth.
- Many new ideas and initiatives have been introduced to better serve our communities.
Finishing the Year Strong
As we approach the final months of this Optimist year, I encourage every member and every club to stay focused on finishing strong. Please continue reaching out to potential new members, supporting fellow clubs, and promoting the positive impact that Optimism has on our communities. Together, we can build on the momentum we have created and ensure that CENON District 47 remains a leader in service and growth.
I want to thank every member, club officer, Club President, Lieutenant Governor, and District Leader for your dedication, and commitment throughout, this year. Your passion and volunteer spirit are what make our district successful.
A Personal Reflection and Thank You
On a personal note, many of you are aware that I was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident on March 5, 2026. Since then, I have continued to cope with the effects of a severe concussion and significant injuries to my right leg. These challenges have limited my ability to serve at the level I had hoped to throughout the remainder of this Optimist year, and for that I sincerely apologize.
Despite these challenges, I have been deeply grateful for the steadfast support of so many people across our District. I especially want to recognize Past Governor Gord Holly, my Governor Advisor, who stepped forward without hesitation to help chair our Third Quarter Conference and has continued to support me throughout my recovery.
At one point, my doctor suggested that I step down from my role as Governor so I could focus fully on my health. When I spoke with Gord and Barb, they encouraged me not to give up on the year we had begun together. Gord reassured me that he, along with our District leadership team and membership, would help carry the load and support me through the completion of my term.
Gord, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your friendship, guidance, encouragement, and dedication. Your support has meant more than words can express. I am equally grateful to all our members who have reached out with messages, phone calls, cards, prayers, and offers of assistance. I also want to extend a special thank you to my best friend and fellow Optimist, Gerry Heaton, who has driven me to our events. Your kindness and support have helped me continue serving this great District during one of the most difficult times in my life.
Thank you for believing in me and for demonstrating the true spirit of Optimism.
Let us work together to make this final quarter our strongest yet.
Yours in Optimism,
Larry Harper, Governor,
CENON District 47, Optimist International