The "Manhattan Optimist Club Bulletin": Vol. 2025 #28: 5-7-25

VOLUME 2025      MAY 7      NUMBER 28

Students, administrators, guests and members were warmly welcomed, followed by the Flag Salute.

ACHES & PAINS: Be kind always and remember to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy each day!

PROGRAM: Sharon Fincham welcomed our school administrators, teachers, parents, grandparents, siblings and all those supporting our Youth of the Month recipients from Oliver Brown Elementary and Ogden Elementary schools. Without all this great support, who knows where we’d be. We are so thankful for all of you!

Sharon Fincham introduced us to 5th grade student, Autumn B from Oliver Brown Elementary. Her nominating teacher, Robin Whitten had the following to say: “It is with great pride that I nominate Autumn for recognition by the Manhattan Optimist Club. Autumn is a kind, hardworking student whose growth and character have been an inspiration this year. Over the past several months, she has shown remarkable dedication to improving her focus and stamina in the classroom. Her commitment to her personal growth is evident in the way she approaches her work with perseverance and a positive attitude. She consistently demonstrates a willingness to challenge herself and stay engaged, even when the task at hand is difficult. Beyond her academic efforts, Autumn is a thoughtful and compassionate friend. She is always ready with a kind word or helping hand and she treats her classmates with respect and empathy. Her presence uplifts those around her and she contributes to a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Autumn exemplifies the values of optimism, kindness and perseverance. I can think of no one more deserving of recognition for her efforts and the positive impact she has on her peers and school community.”

Her family followed up with, she is an awesome, grateful child. She is a true fashion trend, she loves her friends, playing outside and is very helpful with chores around the house. She’s a true giver.

Mike Fincham then introduced us to 5th grade student, Adeline F, also of Oliver Brown Elementary. Her teacher, Sally Lopez had this to say about her nominee. “It is my pleasure to nominate Adeline for the Manhattan Optimist Club Youth of the Month Award. As her teacher, I have had the privilege of witnessing her exceptional character, creativity and leadership on a daily basis. Adeline is a student who consistently radiates kindness. She goes out of her way to ensure that every classmate feels seen, valued and included. Whether offering a helping hand or a kind word, she sets the tone for a welcoming and compassionate classroom environment. Her creativity is another powerful gift she brings to our community. Through her artwork and imaginative thinking, she not only expresses herself beautifully but also inspires her peers to explore their own creative voices. Her artistry brings joy and light to those around her and encourages others to embrace self-expression with confidence. Beyond her kindness and creativity, Adeline exemplifies integrity and leadership. She follows classroom expectations consistently and encourages others to do the same – not by enforcing rules, but by leading by example. When she sees a concern or has a question about decisions made, she communicates with clarity, respect and maturity beyond her years. She is never afraid to advocate for what is right, and she does so with empathy and thoughtfulness. It is rare to come across a student who embodies such a balanced combination of kindness, creativity and courage. Adeline is truly deserving of recognition, and I cannot think of a more fitting recipient for the Youth of the Month Award.”

Her family added that she loves the STEM program, arts and crafts. She loves to make beaded jewelry for her family and friends. She loves music and participates in Girls on the Run and may like to be a science teacher when she grows up.

Next, Mark Locke introduced a 4th grade student, Steven P, from Ogden Elementary School. Teacher, Lauryn Peterman had this to say, “Steven as a recipient of the Youth of the Month Award is a testament to his remarkable journey of perseverance and personal growth. He embodies the spirit of optimism, consistently demonstrating kindness and inclusivity, particularly on the soccer field during recess. His natural ability to draw others into games and his infectious enthusiasm suggests a promising future athlete. Beyond his athletic prowess, Steven enlivens the classroom with his playful humor, fostering a positive and engaging learning environment. His unwavering commitment to bringing his best each day, coupled with his significant maturation throughout the 4th grade, has profoundly impacted our class, making him deserving of this award.”

Steven’s family added, he is active, athletic, and loves soccer and basketball. He likes to go camping and really likes to play FORTNITE with friends. He also likes math and recess.

Our last student, Devion M., was not able to attend this morning but his teacher, Robert Brown, did have the following to say about his nomination. “Devion very frequently models for his classmates, what it looks like to be a “Top Panther” here at Ogden Elementary, which is something we talk about a lot in the 5th grade. Devion works very hard, asks questions, is friendly and maybe most impressively, he takes advice and constructive criticism more maturely than most adults I know. He, time after time, rises above the basic expectations to ensure the success of both himself and his classmates. He takes respectful accountability very seriously and makes 5th grade a better place to be for his classmates AND his teachers.”

What a great bunch of students, we are so proud of you and wish you nothing but the best. Thank you all for making your schools a better place for your classmates, yourselves and your teachers!

The board approved $500.00 given to MHS Robotics Club who will be heading to Houston for Nationals!

Marketing Campaign is on Facebook and there have been Radio Ads. Look and Sound great, be sure to share on Facebook.

GUESTS: Administrators, staff, students and their families from Oliver Brown and Ogden Elementary Schools. Allison Muth from the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce. We welcome you all and are so happy you could join us!

Meeting adjourned with the Optimist Creed

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”