LAMPMAN - With over one million members in 152 countries, Lion’s Club is the largest service club in the world. The Lampman Lions club has 17 of those members. On
Thursday, June 16 the club held their year-end windup at the Lampman Golf Club. The barbequed steak aroma filled the air upon arrival, and it was a well-deserved meal by the diligent crew.
Lion’s International began 104 years ago, with the next convention coming up in a few weeks in Montreal. It still holds the same values for peace and understanding, while helping those in need.
Lampman Lions received sponsorship from the Oxbow club on April 7, 1963, and they have been going strong ever since then. Gerry Perkowitsch is a lifetime member. He joined the organization in 1966.
Anyone can join the club, be it men, women or children. Leo’s is for the kids, and the club hopes to get something established for the youngsters in the future. It takes a great deal of work to get this done.
Over the years they have built the concession booth at the recreation grounds. They did a great deal of fundraising for the popular pool. At the rec. grounds they will replace the sand in the 150’ by 200’ sand pit and the list goes on. One of the largest fundraisers they do is the 52-draw community lottery. A draw is done every Thursday over a course of a year, beginning in October. They are hugely involved in the Lampman’s sports weekend as well, which was just held.
At the sports weekend, the Vegas draw was held, with only 400 tickets sold, so the chances were good. They had eight $50 winners, one $100 winner, one $500 winner, and the grand prize of $1,500 was won by Alina Fornwald.
It was also donation time at the sports weekend. Lampman Auxiliary and Lampman Library received $1,000. The Lampman Fire and Rescue gratefully accepted $2,000, while the Community in Blooms received $1,500. Lampman Recreation received $2,500. Every penny raised by the club remains in the community and they are happy to do that.
Like every service club, they are looking for membership. Anyone can join and meetings are held the first and third Thursdays of the month, beginning in September. They take a break during the summer months, but this does not mean they are not working on things for the up-and-coming year.
Recently a new executive was elected. While a couple stayed on in their positions, others handed over the reins to the new ones. The new executives are president Garrett Woodley, past president Edward Laverdiere, vice president Damon Sutherland, second vice president Scott Greening and third vice president Todd Fornwald. Richard Kochie remains as secretary, while Jadon Carnduff and Damon Sutherland are the treasurers. The new executive will take over in July.
There are other positions involved like directors, visitation chairperson, awards and so much more. Larry Loughren is the tail twister and is responsible for keeping everyone in line. The lion tamer, Edward Laverdiere sets up the meetings before the meeting begins.
Over the years members have come and gone, but so many of them have been loyal members and continue to come back. Gerry Perkowitsch is now a life member. He joined the club when it was new. He is in his 56th year and a highly active member. Richard Kochie is a 24-year member, also continually active in the club.
After the delicious meal, awards were given to those who never missed a meeting over the 2021-22 year. It was now time to just enjoy the social and fellowship with their lLons.
Anyone wishing to become a member can contact any member of the club. They can be found on Facebook as well. They will gladly help you out with any further questions. If Lampman is too far for you, there are clubs in other towns in the area.
