For Immediate Release | January 16, 2017
Optimist Club to Sponsor Essay Contest for Students
The Optimist Club of Van Wert is encouraging area students to contemplate the phrase
“Chasing Optimism in the Face of Challenges” as part of the Optimist International Essay
Contest for 2017. The contest is open to all Van Wert County students who were under age 18
as of October 1, 2016.
The Essay Contest entry deadline is February 15, 2016. The Optimist Club will judge the local
students’ essays, and determine the top winners. Local winners will receive medallions along
with cash awards of 1st place ($300) and 2nd place ($150). In addition to developing skills for
written expression and winning local cash awards, participants also have the opportunity to win
a scholarship! The winning essay will advance to the district contest to compete for a $2,500
scholarship and a plaque. Students wishing to participate in the essay contest can receive
application information and find out more by contacting Andy Manz, Club Essay Chair, at
419-796-9968.
The Optimist Club sponsors many local youth programs and conducts positive service projects,
which include its annual After Prom service project, the Artrageous local event in June and the
upcoming Oratorical Contest, also held for local students. It is the goal of Optimist to encourage
students to bring out the best in each of them. To learn more about the Club or for membership
interest, please contact Ray Able, Secretary/Treasurer at 419-238-5086, or Thaison Leaser,
Club President at 419-238-9662.