April 10, 2012

Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego) and his Ovation to Business Advisory Committee presented his monthly Ovation to Business award to the Oswegoland Optimist Club last night for over 30 years of service to the children of Oswego and surrounding communities through their countless charitable initiatives and donations.

Rep. Cross speaks at the Oswegoland Optimist Club meeting where he presented Club President Bob Reid with the Ovation to Business award Monday night.

“The Oswegoland Optimist Club exemplifies what it means to serve the community,” said Cross.  “The Club sponsors youth sports teams, collects food and toy donations for needy children and their families, and spearheads numerous fun activities and events for local kids throughout the year in addition to raising funds to provide scholarships for Oswego High School seniors to attend Waubonsee College each year.”

The Oswegoland Optimist Club, located at 745 Churchill Lane in Oswego, plans various events to raise money for the children of the community. The club sponsors youth baseball and softball teams, scout troops and youth groups, and donates to the YMCA and many organizations that benefit children. The club has also held car washes, raffles, fundraisers and blood drives to help local families in need.

The club’s largest initiative of the year is the Needy Family Christmas project. Last year, the club purchased gifts and meals for 107 families and over 270 children. The members of the club purchase, wrap and deliver the meals and gifts to each family.

The Oswegoland Optimist Club is also the first not-for-profit organization to receive the Ovation to Business Award.

“I am honored to accept this award on behalf of the over 110 outstanding and dedicated members of the Oswegoland Optimist Club,” said Club President Bob Reid. “We are proud to continue our work to improve the lives of children and their families in our area, and we thank the community for your recognition and support of our efforts.”

Rep. Cross is currently accepting nominations for future recipients of the Ovation to Business Award. You can find and submit the application form on Rep. Cross’ website, www.tomcross.com.  

You can nominate a small, medium or large business in the 84th district that is sustaining or growing jobs as well as involved in community service. Not-for-profit organizations are also eligible for nomination. If you have any questions, please call Lois Maguire at (815) 254-0000. 

Cross’ Ovation to Business Advisory Committee will review the applications and make award recipient recommendations.