November 26, 2008 > Optimists celebrate youth Optimists celebrate youth Submitted By Marla Blowers Youth Appreciation Week is held throughout Optimism each November. Wednesday, November 12, the Newark Optimist Club honored Jonathan Custodio and Mitra Fazel from Newark Memorial High School. School Board member Jan Crocker read a Proclamation issued by Mayor Dave Smith declaring this Youth Appreciation Week, as well as commendations for each student. Lt. Gov. Denise Fullerton served as chairperson for the program. Mitra, a senior at NMHS is actively involved in leadership, peer tutoring, and working as a Washington Hospital volunteer. She hopes to become a Pharmacist. Johathan, also a senior, teaches Confirmation classes at St. Edwards and volunteers at Washington Hospital. As a member in the US Army Reserves, he hopes to become a respiratory therapist and go on to medical school.