Honored for Optimistic values

Mitchel Thompson, decked out in pin striped suit and tie, appreciated the free meal and certificate at Clarkston Optimist Club’s Youth Appreciation Breakfast, but had one concern.
Would he get back to school on time?
“He always goes above and beyond,” said Principal Kathleen Leh, Springfield Plains Elementary School, at the April 29 meeting.
Optimists honored Thompson and 23 fellow Clarkston students from all seven elementaries, middle, junior, senior high, and Renaissance High schools.
“It’s one of our favorite programs,” said Optimist Roger Diederich, whose wife Sandy Diederich chairs the program.
‘One of the things we do in Optimists is recognize kids in the community,” Sandy said. “There are many great kids. It’s hard to limit schools to just two children each.”
‘We’re all about the kids,? said Michael Seltzer, Michigan District Optimist Club governor, who attended the April 29 meeting.
Students were selected based on Optimist values of citizenship, scholarship, and leadership.
“I want to thank the Optimists for all your youth oriented activities,” said Principal Vince Licata, Clarkston High School at the April 20 breakfast meeting, where the older students were honored.
“I love getting the call from the Optimists ? it’s one of the highlights of the year,” said Principal Bruce Martin, Andersonville Elementary.
? Phil Custodio