What happens when 65 optimists from Alabama and Mississippi gather together?

“A great day enjoyed by all,” Optimist Club Alms district Lt governor Pam Marks said.

On Feb. 17, members of the Optimist Club — an organization that seeks to promote engaged patriotism and citizenship — gathered at Athens State University for the club’s Alabama Mississippi district super zone meeting.

Mayor Ronnie Marks was the guest speaker at the event, and he recognized past district governor Jim Miner for his service to the community by presenting proclamation and a key to the city.

The Athens Renaissance School robotics team shared some of their work with the visiting optimists as well, showing one of its robots. Inviting the team to show its work reflects the goals of the Optimist Club “by providing hope and positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in youth, our communities and ourselves,” according to Pam Marks.