The Perry chapter of the Optimist Club International welcomed four new members to its ranks at its monthly meeting Wednesday at La Poste, and three Perry High School students received awards as winners of the club’s annual essay contest.
Bringing the club’s membership rolls to 31 were newcomers Julie Elliott, Alaina Rohe, Bob Wilson and Carissa Yanders. Optimist Club Treasurer Jason Mena presented the new recruits with membership pins and certificates.
“Chasing Optimism in the face of Challenges” was the topic of the 2017 high school essay contest. PHS junior Yordi Mena took first place, with junior Natalie Haynes capturing second and senior Eyob Gebrezgabiher taking third.
Optimist Mary Rose Nichols presented the winners with Optimist Club medallions. The essayists’ work now advanced to state-level Optimist Club competition.
