March 22, 2011 > Newark Optimists Club honors essayists Newark Optimists Club honors essayists Submitted By Denise Fullerton Newark Optimists honored winners of their essay contest and their parents at its regular meeting held on March 9 at the Newark IHOP Restaurant. The Newark Optimist Essay Contest is part of the Optimist International Essay Contest, held yearly for youths through age 18. The topic this year encouraged young people to consider how the decisions they make today will play a role in their future. Students addressed "How My Education is the Key to a Successful Life." Winners were awarded an official medallion, a certificate of participation and cash prizes. Winners of the 2010-2011 contest: First Place - Ella Gunady, Glenmoor Elementary School, Fremont. Second Place - Melody Yee, James Logan High School, Union City. Third Place - Victoria Yuan, Challenger School, Newark. The essay of First Place Winner, Ella Gunady has been sent on to the Pacific Central District, Optimist International Essay Contest to compete for a $2,500 scholarship. For more information contact Denise Fullerton at (510) 793-6074 or promsyrslf@sbcglobal.net.