Optimist Club sets Essay Contest date

VW independent/submitted information

The Optimist Club of Van Wert is encouraging area students to contemplate the phrase “Can Society Function Without Respect” as part of the Optimist International Essay Contest for the 2017-2018 school year. The contest is open to all Van Wert County students who were under age 18 as of October 1, 2017.

The essay contest entry deadline is Wednesday, February 15. The Optimist Club will judge local students’ essays and determine the top winners.

Local winners will receive medallions, along with cash awards of $300 (first place) and $150 (second place). 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 wanting 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 or amanz@brsw-cpa.com.

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, contact Ray Able, secretary-treasurer, at 419.238.5086, or Diana Cearns, club president, at 419.238.1463.