BY TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR
My apologies go out to our February Youth Optimists of the Month. We inadvertently ran the January Youth Optimists of the month in both February and March when we should have run the February Youth Optimists of the Month in our March 14, 2024, edition.
We want to ensure our Youth Optimists get the recognition they deserve for being outstanding examples in our community, so without further ado, here are the February Youth Optimists of the Month.
Prairie River Middle School February Youth Optimist
Jacey Lyon, an eighth grader at Prairie River Middle School (PRMS), is the February Youth Optimist of the Month.
“I am highly recommending Jacey Lyon for the Youth Optimist Award,” Joelene Hanig wrote in her nomination. “Jacey is quiet, but a noticeable leader among her peers. She has shown what a positive attitude looks like on a daily basis.”
“I have had Jacey in class the last two years, and she has grown into a confident young lady. The maturity level of handling organization, being prepared, and setting high attainable goals is demonstrated on a daily basis,” Ms. Hanig said. “Academically, her work ethic is strong with accurate and quality work and the desire to always do her best.”
“The respect and consideration she shows not only to her peers but also the adults here at PRMS, expresses how she values others,” she said. “I believe Jacey would be an excellent representative of what the Youth Optimist Award stands for. She is deserving of this award!”
At school, Jacey received the GPA Medal in both sixth and seventh grades and she plays basketball and softball. She also helps with community Easter breakfasts. When not in school, Jacey enjoys going on trips and outings with family, especially shopping.
Jacey is the daughter of Molly and Jerry Lyon of Merrill.
Merrill High School February Youth Optimist
Mia Ott, a Senior at Merrill High School (MHS), is the February Youth Optimist of the Month.
“Mia is a fantastic student and leader,” Ms. Alison Krohn said in her nomination of Mia. “She does what is needed of her when no one is watching and goes above and beyond to ensure success in all parts of her life. I love conversing with her because she is one of the most respectful young people I have ever met. I am proud to be her coach.”
At school, Mia is active in National Honor Society, Junior Optimist Club, Raise Your Voice Club, Leadership Club, Basketball (Captain, 1st Team All Conference, Offensive MVP), and Softball (Defensive MVP).
In the community, Mia is involved with Make a Difference Day, St. Francis Snack Shack, Totus Tuus, St. John’s Cookie Sale, St. Patrick’s Day Cookie Sale, and the Raise Your Voice Walk.
The daughter of Rebecca and Bob Ott, after graduation Mia plans to attend University Wisconsin – Green Bay to get a bachelor’s degree in accounting. After a few years of experience, she plans to apply to become an FBI Special Agent.