June 21, 2011 > Local students receive awards for optimism Local students receive awards for optimism Submitted By Denise Fullerton, Photo courtesy of Marla Blowers Meena Naderi and Alan Cordova, sixth grade students at Milani Elementary School in Newark were recognized as their school's "6th Graders of the Year" at the June 7 meeting of the Newark Optimist Club. Students were asked to write essays on "How an Optimistic Attitude Will Enrich My Life." Selection was based on content of an optimistic attitude for the future. Their teacher, Mrs. Janet Zutler, was present and proudly introduced her students.