The Malibu Optimist Club recently recognized the winners of its annual essay contest. This year’s theme was “Chasing Optimism in the Face of Challenges.” The winners, all from Malibu High School, were presented with their awards at the club’s recent breakfast meeting. Harley Rader won first place — complete with a gold medal and $300 prize — and will proceed to the district level competition; Kristina Schmidt placed second and received a silver medal and $200 prize; and Chase Kapler placed third, taking home the bronze medal and a $100 prize.