Optimists named Distinguished Club The Howell Optimist Club was recognized as a Distinguished Club for the 2005-06 Optimist year by Optimist International for its exceptional work throughout the community, commitment to children and continued support to Optimist International and the New Jersey Lower New York Optimist District. According to a press release, the members of the Optimist Club of Howell are dedicated to serving the youth of their community. They serve as leaders, mentors and friends to help youths achieve a more positive and productive life. They help to create opportunities for youths as they develop into adulthood and become role models for future generations. The club members have sponsored sporting events, essay and photo contests for the children of the community, made donations to many of the area's child charities, and have helped raise money for the organization's Childhood Charities Campaign, Camp Quality and numerous children's activities and programs. In addition, the Howell Optimists annually award scholarships to graduating high school seniors and computers to Howell middle schools, and have participated in a number of community events with other local organizations, including the Howell Community Alliance, Howell Police Department, Howell Youth and Family Services and the Howell Chamber of Commerce. For more information about the Howell Optimist Club, contact Joe Kienzlen at (732) 363-1346 or send e-mail to Jkienzlen@aol.com.