The "Manhattan Optimist Club Bulletin": Vol. 2025 #26: 4-23-25

VOLUME 2025      APRIL 23      NUMBER 26

President Greg McCune welcomed the membership, MHS students, teachers, and other guests. Bill Wisdom shared a reflection. The flag salute followed.

Ed Klimek introduced Jamie Schnee, a special education teacher. Jamie introduced her teacher colleagues, Haleigh Jung, and John Barstow, then explained the Interpersonal Skills Class (IPS) started in 1998. IPS is a year-long class offered to students with disabilities and general education peers who are seniors. The main goal of IPS is to learn about and embrace each other’s differences to learn how to work together and make the school, community, and world a more inclusive place. Their goal is to break down the barriers and stigma attached to disabilities and make Manhattan High School a more inclusive place. Manhattan's Got Talent is a talent show the class was involved with producing and highlighted talent of students with disabilities and was completely ran by students. They also are working on a unified sports event that will be open to everyone in the high school. They have done many other activities to bring students with disabilities together with other students in the school. For the essay contest, senior students teamed up with one of the students with disabilities to coauthor the essays.

Greg McCune introduced the essay contest judges, Jeremy Allen, Jullie Brummett, Sharon Fincham, Jean Klasen, Sean Norberg, Lucas Renz, and Dale Shipps, then explained the judging process. For the first round of judging, the group divided into three pairs and the pairs judged the essays, then passed the best ones on to the final round and then they all went through them again and picked the four winners. The Manhattan Optimist Club applied for and received a $1,000 grant from Optimist International to fund the prizes etc. Each of the winners received a $200 check.

Each pair of students read their essays to the Optimist.

Outgoing and talkative all the time. Silent and calm all the time. The story of two students who seem like complete opposites but are truly the same deep down. One student who seemingly everyone knows and follows, the other you wouldn’t know a thing about. The quiet student who has brilliant ideas, but can’t always express his feelings and thoughts. The outgoing student on the inside is only thinking about what others think of him. The one thing that brought these students together, is a simple jolly rancher.

The quiet student shows up like every other day nice and calm ready to learn with nothing else on his mind. The other walks in and wants say hi to everyone and know about everyone’s weekend. When he finally reaches the quiet student, he lets out “What’s up!!” and reaches for a fist bump. Of course, the student simply gave the fist bump and moved on with his day. But little did they both know, this was the start of their friendship. That day the class happened to be going to the gym, but the quiet student wasn’t feeling like going. Luckily for both of them, the outgoing student had a bag of jolly ranchers ready to be eaten in his backpack. As the last one sitting down, eyes closed acting asleep, the outgoing student approached the other in the hopes of getting him the go to the gym. As he reached in his backpack and pulled out that jolly rancher, the quiet students eyes lit up like a firework on the 4th of July. In almost no time the quiet student was up and ready to go to the gym to hangout for the rest of class.

The jolly rancher that day was much more than just a jolly rancher. That day the students got a chance to connect and put a smile on each other’s faces. It gave the opportunity for a friendship that will last forever. Without that day and simple piece of candy, the two students would never have connected for this interview to write this very essay. Without that day, the outgoing student would never have learned what the quiet student goes through and thinks every single day but can't always express. Without that day, the friendship built today would never have happened.

As of today, the students have learned so much more than they knew about each other before the jolly rancher. Although they seem like opposites, they both enjoy watching all kinds of sports, they both enjoy listening to certain types of music, they both take pride in playing fun video games, and best of all, they both have a killer mustache. Every Wednesday when the class goes to the gym, the quiet student lays on the others backpack while he watches everyone play basketball and volleyball. The simple “What’s up” every day in class has turned into conversations that could last all day talking about what we both love to do. All just because, of that simple jolly rancher.

Santana B. & Emily A. presented:

Life presents everyone with unique challenges and the way we approach these obstacles shapes who we become. Through the process of interviewing each other, we discovered that while our struggles differ, the emotions behind them—uncertainty, frustration, and growth—are universal. One of us, Student A, faces the stress of preparing for college and balancing work at a hospital, while Student B works on building confidence and learning new physical skills. Despite our differences, our experiences in the Interpersonal Skills (IPS) class have helped us grow, teaching us that putting ourselves out there and forming connections makes a significant difference in overcoming challenges.

Student A’s biggest challenge is preparing for a future in nursing. Between working at a hospital, completing a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) course, and figuring out college applications, balancing everything can feel overwhelming. Time management is a struggle, and burnout is a constant threat. Additionally, saying no is difficult, making it easy to take on too much. On top of academic and career concerns, Student A strives to improve communication skills to work effectively with patients, even the ones who are difficult to connect with. These challenges require patience, persistence, and adaptability.

On the other hand, Student B’s challenges revolve around personal confidence and self-improvement. Learning how to ride a bike, tying shoes, and becoming better at self-advocacy may seem small to others, but they represent major milestones in Student B’s personal growth. The desire to keep up with friends and be more active can feel frustrating, especially when asking for help feels uncomfortable. Speaking up, whether in class or social situations, is another challenge, making it hard to fully express needs and opinions. However, Student B is determined to overcome these obstacles and become more independent.

We each have different strategies for overcoming our challenges. Student A leans on trusted friends and mentors, listens to podcasts and videos for guidance, and tries to reframe struggles with a fresh perspective. Learning to step back and be present in the moment has been a key coping mechanism. Student B, on the other hand, relies on teachers, siblings, and friends for support. By slowly practicing self-advocacy and taking small steps toward personal goals, Student B is growing more confident in asking for help and pushing past fears.

IPS has been instrumental in helping both of us tackle our struggles. For Student A, IPS reinforced the importance of communication, teaching how to handle tough conversations and interact with different types of people. This has been valuable in working at the hospital, where building connections with patients—especially those who are combative or closed-off—is essential. Student B, who started introverted, has found IPS to be a safe space to develop social confidence, make friends, and step outside their comfort zone. The class has shown that forming connections with others makes personal challenges feel less daunting.

Ultimately, our experiences highlight the importance of not being afraid to reach out and connect. While our struggles differ, the lesson remains the same: we grow the most when we put ourselves out there. IPS has taught us that challenges are easier to face when we’re not alone—and that sometimes, the best way forward is simply starting a conversation.

Levi S. & Sophia S. presented:

Whether it’s a quiet afternoon or a moment between busy days, we both find peace in taking walks, the rhythm of foot steps brings a sense of calm and relaxation. As seniors in high school, we’ve spent years navigating the challenges that come with growing up, facing self-doubt, anxiety, and the pressure of how others perceive us. While our struggles have looked different at times, they have also connected us, pushing us to grow in confidence and resilience. Through our experiences in IPS, we’ve learned not only to support each other but also to embrace our strengths and recognize that we are more than our worries.

One of the biggest challenges we have both faced is constant worrying and anxiety. Whether it’s over school, social situations, or the fear of failure, anxiety has often made even simple tasks feel overwhelming. There have been moments when we second-guessed ourselves, overthought conversations, or avoided opportunities because of self-doubt. However, over time, we have learned ways to manage our anxiety and take control of our thoughts. Through support from friends, teachers, and the IPS program, we’ve realized that we are not alone in these struggles. Finding healthy ways to cope, like taking walks, practicing deep breaths, and focusing on the positives, has helped us build confidence. While worrying hasn’t disappeared completely, we have learned to face our fears with a stronger mindset, reminding ourselves that we are strong no matter what challenges come our way.

Self confidence has also been a challenge through high school. Trying to fit in, or please others can be very challenging. However, having a stable and constant friend community in IPS has helped in so many different ways and made a significance impact. Student one has shared that “ they have enjoyed being in IPS because it has helped them with his communication skills and their social skills. They feel safe and can be their own self to all their friends.” Student two also mentioned their love for the class and they feel so much love, as it makes their day to walk into the class and see and the happy students. It makes all their worries and troubles go away.” The friendships we’ve built in this class have given us a sense of reassurance, reminding us that we don’t have to face our struggles alone.

Everyone faces personal challenges, but having a strong support system can make a difference. IPS has provided us with a foundation of friendship and encouragement to help us navigate the ups and downs of high school with confidence. This program has shaped us in ways we never would have expected, and we are incredibly grateful for the lessons and friendships formed.

What even is diversity some may ask? Well, diversity is the place or quality of including or involving people from a range of different backgrounds. It can be a topic that often gets overlooked, skipped, or even ignored in some places. But, it can be a topic that is highly prioritized in others. At Manhattan High School, we strive to make the school a diverse place where inclusion is top priority. With the help of Interpersonal Skills (IPS) class diversity is even more successful than it ever has been. Everyone, deals with daily challenges, but it is important to remember some people struggle more than the average person. Although my partner and I are both seniors, we have lived the last eighteen years quite a bit different.

I, (Student A), lived my life, leading up to this point like any “normal” kid. I grew up in a neighborhood with all my friends where we would run, jump, ride bikes and have fun. I enjoyed going to school, and playing on the playground. Throughout my younger life I tried every sport possible all the way from basketball, to soccer, to golf, and, even tried dance. Once I got to high school, I decided to have the best time ever and let me say it has not disappointed. But there will always be bumps and challenges we have to face. Whether that’s with sports, academics, friendships, family I bet we all have faced something. For me, it has happened to be friendships. I had to learn and overcome to be okay with doing my own thing based off my own interests and passions.

Now I, (Student B) had a completely different life experience growing up. I was never able to run, jump, or ride a bike. Even though everyone around me tried to include me, I just I knew I wouldn’t be the same as them. To formally introduce myself, hi, I’m Student B and I love SpongeBob, I have a great sense of humor and love being around people. But there is something you should know about me. I was born with a genetic disorder that has put me in a wheelchair full-time. I also have low communication skills, meaning I’m nonverbal. But, those qualities don’t define me, they are just part of my story and something I have learned to overcome. With the help of family, community, and all my friends in IPS I have have been able to live my life as close as I can to theirs. Whether that’s communicating through my talker, or laughing at SpongeBob together, we always make it work.

In the end, diversity is not just about recognizing differences, but it’s about embracing them and learning to overcome them by creating a community where everyone feels valued. Both Student A and Student B have walked different paths, but both plan to walk across that stage in May with equal respect for each other. Their experiences highlight the importance of understanding perseverance and inclusion and making it a priority.

President Greg McCune presented an award to Sharon Fincham for her service to the Optimist Club arranging Youth of the Month for each elementary school. A lot of time and energy goes into each Youth of the Month presentation. Thank you and congratulations to Sharon!

Grow Green raised approximately $7,200 for the Optimist Foundation on April 2.

A draft of the member directory was circulated for everyone to review.

UPDATE 4-30-25 THIS SOCIAL EVENT IS CANCELLED DUE TO THE GAME CANCELLATION.   The Optimist Social on May 6th is a Tailgate at KSU Stadium before the baseball game. It begins at 4:00 and the game begins at 6:00. Meat will be provided and participants bring a side dish. You do not need to attend the game to attend the Tailgate; game tickets are are available from KSU.

Baseball Tickets - Kansas State University Athletics

Jim Franke and Bruce Bidwell thanked those who worked the softball tournament parking cars and maintaining playing fields: Jerry Banaka, Bruce Bidwell, Steve Boeckman, Jack Carlson, Mike Fincham, Jim Franke, Gerit Garman, Steve Havenstein, Gary Lloyd, Mark Locke, Steve McKinzie, Clyde Scott, and Bob Seymour. Eight 8U ( aged 7 & 8) teams were involved in the one-day tournament. Besides the 115 or so players and coaches, there were a couple of hundred fans in attendance. Our members were responsible for setting and maintaining the fields and for supervising the parking of around 100-125 cars.

Kelly Karl announced May 24th is the Bill Snyder Marathon. Help is needed to guide runners on the course. This not only helps the race be successful, but also earns money for the Optimist Club. Workers will be assigned an area and need to be on site at 6:30 am until around 10:30 am.

GUESTS: MHS students, teachers, parents and other guests.

Meeting adjourned with the Optimist Creed.

APRIL 30: MORNING MEETING: Program: Youth of the Month Presentations: “Bluemont & Flint Hills Christian Elementary Schools”

MAY 7: MORNING MEETING: Program: Youth of the Month Presentations: “Ogden & Oliver Brown Elementary Schools”

MAY 14: NOON MEETING: Program: Rachel Veenstra – KSU Department of Agronomy: “Crop Judging National Champs – Again!”

MAY 21: MORNING MEETING: Danielle Dulin – Manhattan City Manager: “Manhattan City Management”

MAY 28: NOON MEETING: Phil Anderson & Tracey Anderson – Anderson- Knight Architects: “Manhattan Riverfront Project”