Optimists Honor Local High School Students

On Wednesday morning The Royal Oak Optimist Club honored 12 area high school students at the Youth Appreciation Awards during its annual event at the . The students were selected by their advisors and faculty from Royal Oak High, Berkley High and Shrine Catholic High for outstanding achievement  in the classroom, as well as for their activity and leadership skills in the community.

Each student was introduced by a current Optimist Club member.  Prior to the awards, the Optimists interviewed the young men and women while getting to know about their goals, ambitions and proudest achievements. The Optimists and guests, which included friends and family of the students, applauded after each presentation and Optimist Club President Shannon Jovic presented each with a certificate as well as a gift card to and flash drive.

The college choices for the students represented an impressive list from some of our area’s finest institutions of higher learning. From the University of Michigan and Michigan State to Miami of Ohio and Lawrence Tech, most have a clear goal for their future career path.  There were even a few mentions of Notre Dame, much to the delight of Jack Salter, the No. 1 fan of the Irish.

One thing is clear: After meeting these outstanding young people, the future is very bright for our local community and our country. Congratulations to all. 

Those honored were:

Royal Oak High School – Daniel Dobras, Wesley Howell,  Abigail Rogers, Paige Smith

Berkley High School – Rachel Bornstein, Erica Fox, Rachel Pernick, Francesca Simon

Shrine Catholic High School – Jess Moon, Matthew Rzepecki, Ella Stanley, Melanie Shaw