The "Manhattan Optimist Club Bulletin": Vol. 2024 #10: 12-6-23
VOLUME 2024 DECEMBER 6 NUMBER 10
President Bill Wisdom, welcomed everyone, and gave us the morning reflection/blessing and then we all joined in the Pledge of Allegiance.
ACHES & PAINS: Always be kind, you never know what others are going through.
PROGRAM: Sharon Fincham first introduced us to Danny Simon, Principal at Woodrow Wilson, Sharon Cairns, kindergarten teacher at Woodrow Wilson and Nancy Barstow, 5th grade teacher at Lee Elementary, without these wonderful teachers and administrators, we would not be able to recognize these outstanding students.
Mark Locke first told us about Onna E., kindergartner at Woodrow Wilson who was not able to attend this morning. This is what her teacher, Stephanie Koochel had to say about nominating Onna: “She always makes good choices, even when her peers are not. She shows compassion to her peers when they are struggling, and she is very respectful and caring towards teachers and peers in her classroom. Onna is kind, good natured, positive and a good student.”
Ellie’s mother added: “She is very nice, upbeat, sweet, and kind. A friend to all. She likes make-up, dolls and is a “Swiftie” – she likes Taylor Swift, we even got to see her little Taylor Swift dance! She also has a dog named Arabella who she loves. Her favorite school subjects are History and Social Science.
He is a middle child in between 1 sister and 4 brothers. He is a very caring young man; he helps with cleaning “every now and then!” He uses the blender to experiment with different smoothies. He likes X-Box, Basketball and Football. He likes Basketball the best, we wish him the best with that!
Last up, Sharon introduced us to 5th grader, Zoey G., from Lee Elementary School. Her teacher Nancy Barstow said this about nominating Zoey: “Zoey is a remarkable young lady and I have had the privilege of being one of her teachers for the past 3 years. She is one of the hardest workers I have encountered in my teaching career. When Zoey sets her mind to a task, nothing deters her until it’s completed. When she is working independently, know I can trust her to stay on task and do what she’s supposed to do. Despite some physical ailments, she never complains as she is learning to advocate for herself for what she may need in terms of self-care. When Zoey feels comfortable and trusts those that work with her, she rewards them by sharing her sense of humor – such a treat! She has quite a passion for animals and loves to share information about her goats. I look forward to every teaching time I have with Zoey; I will miss her when she transitions to 6th grade, Middle School. Keep up the good work, Zoey, You Are Amazing!”
Her mother added, she loves her animals, goats, bunnies, and chickens, all of which they show for 4-H. She loves being outside, she loves camping, music and being with her family. She is very strong, has overcome so many obstacles, but does not let anything stop her, she’s like the energizer bunny.
Many congratulations to all these wonderful students, we wish you all the very best. Keep doing what you’re doing, and you’ll all go far. We are so proud of all of you and we know your teachers are as well, keep up the great work!
CLUB STUFF/ANNOUNCEMENTS and UPCOMING EVENTS:
Tree Lot Report: Right at 99 trees, thanks to all the “extra” shifters, thanks to those bringing treats, donuts, cinnamon rolls and Chili. It has been much appreciated. Regular shifts end on Thursday but with trees left, there are volunteer spots open for the weekend. If you have a little extra time, swing by and help sell the remaining trees! Thanks in advance!
Hoop Holler and Shoot girls final Dec 18th, thank you to all those who helped!
Early Expressions Art: Friday is the day and Korey and Jim are thankful for all the assistance.
Christmas breakfast is Dec 20th, please sign up for all you have attending.
SAVE THE DATE: Special Olympics State Basketball Tournament: March 15th and 16th (scorekeepers needed)
SAVE THE DATE: Annual Spaghetti Dinner: March 23rd!
GUESTS: Welcome students, families and staff/administration from Woodrow Wilson and Lee Elementary Schools. We are so glad you are with us today.
Meeting adjourned with the OPTIMIST CREED.
DECEMBER 13: MHS Student of the Month Presentation and Adriana Beltran, volunteer and
NOON MEETING donations coordinator, Manhattan Emergency Shelter
Topic: “What’s happening at the MESI”
Coordinators: Thad Hall and Heather Peterson
DECEMBER 20: Annual Christmas Breakfast – “Welcome in the Christmas Spirit!”
MORNING MEETING Featuring Chad Pape and the Manhattan Pops Choir and a special visit from Santa! Coordinators: Mike and Sharon Fincham
DECEMBER 27: Karen and Dave Everhart, Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue Ranch
NOON MEETING Topic: “Reading to our Rescues” Coordinator: Mike Fincham