The "Manhattan Optimist Club Bulletin": Vol. 2025 #23: 4-2-25

VOLUME 2025     APRIL 2     NUMBER 23

President Greg McCune welcomed everyone this morning, Bruce McMillin gave our morning reflection that was followed the Flag Salute.

ACHES & PAINS: Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy!

PROGRAM: Sharon Fincham introduced our school representatives that were present this morning and gave praise for all they do for their students. Sharon also recognized all the parents, grandparents, siblings and anyone else here supporting their own students. Our schools being recognized this morning are Frank Bergman Elementary and Marlatt Elementary Schools.

Mike Fincham introduced us to 4th grader, James V, from Bergman Elementary. Teacher Leslie Wohler had the following to say about her nominee: “James has shown remarkable progress over the past year. He is a thoughtful and empathetic young man who is eager to succeed. James has diligently worked to cultivate strong relationships with his peers while enhancing his academic skills. He entered this school year with clear objectives for personal growth and has been motivated to reach those goals. It has been truly uplifting to witness his awesome transformation.

James’ mother followed that with “James is outgoing, funny and silly, caring and helpful. He enjoys video games, music videos, soccer and playing with his friends. He has a dog named Violet and when he grows up, he’d like to be a therapist or an architect, building hospitals and schools.

 

 

Sharon Fincham was next up with 2nd grader, Chadoy R, also from Bergman Elementary. Teacher Ashley Benson said, “What a joy to have Chadoy in my class, he is a fun-loving and caring student. He has shown much progress and personal growth. He is very helpful and has a great sense of humor. He is a real asset to our classroom.”

 

 

 

 

Teacher, Barb McClintock had the following to say about Kairi, “She is a sweet, caring and helpful student. She works hard at school and tries her very best. She cares deeply about others and really has a high level of intelligence.”

Her parents said she is compassionate, and selfless. She volunteers at the animal shelter and cares deeply about these animals. She loves to visit her grandparents’ home and ride horses and enjoy the outdoors. Kairi loves the STEM program; she has great leadership qualities and is so kind. She said, “You don’t have to be an adult to do great things.”

 

 

 

 

David Starks introduced our final student, 4th grader, Cora M, also from Marlatt Elementary. Her teacher Serena Marquez said, “Cora is an outstanding kid. First, she is kind to all her classmates. She works well in partners and groups, for example, she facilitates and leads in the peer’s activity. She also stays on task and follows directions. Next, Cora has made incredible progress this school year. Due to her focus, drive and determination, she is excelling in reading and math. Lastly, Cora is an amazing leader in our classroom. I can trust and count on her to make the right choices. She is going great places in her bright future!”

Her family added that she is always eager to help, she listens well and loves any outdoor activities. She is a huge cheerleader to everyone and loves her friends. She loves basketball, softball, volleyball, and has a blackbelt in taekwondo.

We Optimists are so proud of all of you and wish you only the best going forward. Keep up the great work and we know you’ll succeed in all you do. Congratulations to all of you!

CLUB STUFF/ANNOUNCEMENTS and UPCOMING EVENTS:

Annual Spaghetti Dinner & Silent Auction – was very successful, many thanks to everyone helping make it so successful.

Saturday, April 5th will be a workday at Optimist Park from 10:00am to noon. Please sign up and/or let Jim Franke know if you are available.

Grow Green is April 22nd!

Fundraising Committee will be meeting at Tall Grass Tap House at 5:30.

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

GUESTS: Welcome all visitors from Frank Bergman Elementary and Marlatt Elementary Schools. Parents, grandparents, siblings, teachers and administrators, we are so glad you could join us.

Meeting adjourned with the Optimist Creed.

APRIL 9: NOON MEETING: Program: Student of the Month & Jeff Sackrider, Wamego Telecommunications Co: Topic: “WTC Service Expansion West”

APRIL 16: MORNING MEETING: Program: Jared Trembley, Planning Manager Flint Hills MPO: Topic: “EV Preparation, Connect 2050, Growth of Bike- Pedestrian Trails”

APRIL 23: NOON MEETING: Ed Klimek: Topic: “Interpersonal Skills Essay Contest Awards Presentation”

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