The "Manhattan Optimist Club Bulletin" Vol. 2026 #16 1-21-26

VOLUME 2026   JANUARY 21   NUMBER 16

President Kelly Karl welcomed everyone, and Bruce McMilllan gave us our optimistic morning reflection that was followed by the flag salute.

ACHES & PAINS: Cheers to a very Happy New Year! Here’s to a great 2026!

PROGRAM: Sharon Fincham gave a very warm welcome to the Principals, Teachers, support staff, students, parents, grandparents, siblings and all others joining us this morning to recognize our Youth of the Month recipients from Oliver Brown and Marlatt Elementary Schools. Thank you all for coming this morning and thank you for all you’ve done in helping these students flourish.

Sharon Fincham introduced Oliver Brown 5th grader, Ethan P., his teacher, Robin Whitten had the following to say: “I am pleased to nominate Ethan, a 5th grade student, for recognition by the Manhattan Optimist Club. Throughout this school year, Ethan has shown tremendous growth in both reading and writing areas that have been challenging for him in the past. Although he is naturally shy, he has gained confidence as his skills have improved. He is now more willing to participate I class discussions, share his thinking and take academic risks. His perseverance and positive attitude have played a key role in his progress, and he continues to work hard even when learning feels difficult. Ethan is well liked by his classmates and is known for his kindness and quiet determination. He approaches learning with effort and resilience, making him a positive role model for others. His growth in reading and writing is a true reflection of his dedication and optimism, and he is very deserving of this recognition from the Manhattan Optimist Club.”

Ethan is top of the class in math, and his reading is getting much better. Keep up the great work. Ethan’s dad said he is shy, funny, smart and remembers everything! He loves football, he is a tackle and a defensive end, he likes to ride his bike, play all sports, play the game of RISK, and likes watching Wheel of Fortune. Ethan has 3 sisters that live in Texas and lastly, he likes his teacher!

Mike Fincham had the pleasure of introducing Marlatt 5th grader, Jackson (Jack) M. and here is what his teacher, Jenny Murdock had to say about nominating him. “Jack is a very creative and thoughtful student that has a very vivid sense of humor and inquisitive mind. He approaches challenges and uses his humor and critical thinking skills to solve problems. Using “GOTCHA” tickets he earns in class (students earn these by completing work, helping out or being caught doing the right thing), he chose to spend them on helping a teacher at school during his free time instead of spending them on tangible prizes or snacks. Although distractions sometimes get him off task, he’s always polite when corrected and works on his focus.”

Jack’s father added: Jack helps his mom around the house with cooking and cleaning, they love to bake cookies together, and their favorite cookie is peanut butter chocolate chip. They really make a good team. Jack is humorous and can be a little goofy at times, he is empathetic and caring about people around him and very analytical – overall he’s a great kid. He likes to play Nintendo, Minecraft and Mario Brothers, and he likes to collect Pokémon Cards and build things with Lego’s. He’s a Boy Scout, enjoys hiking and he and his dad participate in the Pinewood Derby where he placed 2nd in Regionals a couple years ago, they plan on entering again this year. Jack is an avid reader; he likes Harry Potter and also enjoys the Goose Bumps books that his dad enjoyed when he was a kid. Jack may want to be a video game tester when he grows up!

Bill Wisdom had the privilege of introducing Oliver Brown 5th grader, Aiden W. Sally Lopez, Aiden’s teacher, had the following to say about this nomination. “It is my great pleasure to nominate Aiden for the Manhattan Optimist Club Youth of the Month Award. As his teacher, I have had the opportunity to observe his growth, dedication and positive impact on our classroom community each day. Aiden is a student who works hard to follow classroom expectations and takes responsibility for his own learning. He approaches each school day with determination and willingness to try, even when tasks are challenging. His effort and perseverance set a strong example for his peers. One of his greatest strengths is his kindness towards others, especially in math. He is always willing to support classmates by explaining concepts, offering encouragement and celebrating others’ successes. His support contributes to a classroom environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and learning together. Beyond his academics, Aiden brings joy to those around them, he loves to make others happy whether by being funny, sharing a smile or doing something thoughtful to brighten someone’s day. He is currently working in our school Makers Space to create 3D printed models of each of his classmates’ favorite animal that have clips to allow them to be worn! His positive attitude and sense of humor help create a welcoming and uplifting atmosphere in our classroom. Aiden embodies the spirit of optimism through his hard work, kindness and desire to lift others up. He is a wonderful role model and truly deserving of recognition as a Youth of the Month Award recipient.”

Aiden likes to read, he’s a good Chess player, and a good friend to all. He likes to play outside, he likes Pokémon, Fortnite Video games, he likes Michael Jackson, and he’s involved with First Tee golf. Most of all…. Aiden would much rather give than receive.

Greg Wurst introduced our final student this morning, a Marlatt 5th grader, Josiah W. Both of Josiah’s teachers, April Hayden and Ashley Helberg made the following statement about nominating Josiah. “Josiah is a wonderful example of optimism in our classroom, his charisma, kindness and lighthearted sense of humor create a welcoming and joyful environment for everyone. Josiah approaches each day with a positive attitude, welcoming smile and has shown remarkable growth throughout the year, both personally and academically. He is empathetic, kind, courteous and has a great sense of humor. Josiah has a gentle manner that he uses to connect with peers, adults and our therapy dog, Flint. His kindness and acceptance are genuine and bring much joy to our school. He is helpful to his peers, especially in the cafeteria when helping to open sauce packets during lunch. He works hard on his assignments and schoolwork and does a great job following his schedule and being respectful and responsible. Josiah has made so much growth this school year, he shows empathy to others in their times of need. His actions foster a positive relationship with others that exemplifies the best of Marlatt’s values. His consistent willingness to support others and spread positivity makes him truly deserve this recognition.”

We Optimists congratulate all four of these wonderful students. We wish you all much success as you move onward and upward. Keep doing what you are doing, and we know you will succeed at all you do – we are very proud of all of you!

Save the date: Feb 5th International Optimist Day -wear your shirts and proudly represent our organization

Save the date: Feb 7th Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl for Kids Sake (Reach out to Ashley if you are interested)

Save the date: Feb 7th Community Non-Profit Fair @ Manhattan Town Center – we will have a table

Save the date: Feb 17th MHK IPS CLASS – Ed Klimek will speak at our next meeting

Save the date: Feb 19th or Feb 26th Museum of Art & Light – social opportunity

Save the date: Feb 26th HYPE Non-Profit Event – Looking for additional volunteers

Save the date: Mar 2nd GMCF Radio Hour-Gary Lloyd will speak (others welcome to join)

Save the date: Mar 28th Annual Spaghetti Dinner

Watch for more information about Special Olympics Basketball event as well as more information from the social committee about an event at the Light Museum coming up!

GUESTS: Welcome everyone coming this morning to recognize and support the Youth of the Month Recipients from Oliver Brown and Marlatt Elementary Schools. We were certainly happy you were all here!

Meeting adjourned with the Optimist Creed