Just to note - if the connectors were positioned on the inside of the popsicle sticks, OHMs are less, and it would be .0002% more efficient (but energy would transfer into the wire, vs first having to flow through the bolt. Less likely that it'll short (heat) on the outside.)
Also, it'd be safe to put a small thumb-trigger to where it's not in an 'always closed' (on) circuit. That can be done by slipping/pivoting the contact at the top-end of the battery... but a AA battery get so hot.