By Steve Vockrodt, Journal-World, Lawrence, Kan. May 30--It takes all kinds to bring a community closer to its schools. That's why the Lawrence school district no longer recognizes only local businesses for creating programs to help kids.

Optimist Club of Lancaster will hold its annual oratorical contest March 13 at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, 308 Petersburg Road, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. This year's topic is "My Biggest Challenge Is..." Contestants are asked to write and deliver a four- to five-minute speech on the topic.

By Joe DePriest, The Charlotte Observer, N.C. Feb. 8--IN MY OPINION The dirt is piled high. Freshly dug from the South Point peninsula. Tons of red Carolina soil being moved to make way for new construction at Duke Energy's Allen Steam Station outside Belmont.

By Lindsay Pollard, The Charlotte Observer, N.C. Jan. 14--Doing a good deed certainly can have its rewards. But helping the Providence Optimist Club just might land you a sports car. The club is selling raffle tickets for a 2007 Honda Roadster S2000 to raise money for N.C. children's charities.

By Beth L. Jokinen, The Lima News, Ohio Oct. 11--ELIDA -- Joyce Buetner isn't much for recognition. In fact, she barely told anyone about being named Teacher of the Year on Tuesday. "I was just kind of keeping this my own little happy secret," she said.