“If everything seems under control, you’re just not going fast enough.”
Mario Andretti
Dear Damascus Lions,
Wow! What a year it has been. A part of me can’t believe that it’s almost over. This will be my last newsletter article as King Lion for this year. I think I must have been going fast enough since I rarely felt that everything was under control. And it’s no wonder, we are a very active club. It has been an honor and privilege to represent you this year, for I know of no better group of people I would like to be associated with.
We have accomplished much this past year and I could fill the entire newsletter with thanks to each of you who have stepped up and helped out this year in many ways and we still have one more month to go. Each and every one of you is needed to help us do what we do – We Serve. And without your contributions of time, dedication, and spirit, we would not have the outstanding club that we do.
May activities started out with White Cane collections. Lion Wayne Marr does a great job getting us set up to collect, but we did not have enough volunteers to man all the posts for the allotted times. Even so, collections were good and we thank Lion Wayne and his management crew as well as the collection volunteers for their time and work.
Lion Mary Frances Gosnell organized a wonderful Youth Night for us where we honored the young people of Damascus and Clarksburg. The jazz ensemble from DHS entertained us with fine music and we recognized the efforts and accomplishments of our local schools and scholars.
Lion Carol could use more help with our Highway Cleanup Crew. We’ve had some bad weather breaks this spring for our scheduled pickups. If we can get another date lined up for June, please come help, even if it’s just for an hour. Especially for this job, many hands make lighter work!
Lions Martin Carr, Mary Frances Gosnell and I attended the Multiple District Convention in May in Salisbury. It was my first convention and was very interesting. We were fortunate to have the International President (The “Kingliest” Lion??) in attendance for the convention. One of the most interesting parts for me was the early morning session he did on Sunday when he did a Q & A session with those who attended.
Also in May, we held our third blood drive with Inova Blood Services. Lion Ken Cook reports that it was our most successful drive so far this year! Thanks to those who helped get the room prepared, put the signs up in town, and staffed the reception and canteen areas. We are so encouraged that we are going to do a summer drive on July 25th. This drive will utilize the mobile collection unit which will be parked at Sandy Spring Bank. Thanks, Lions Ken and Alice Denell for taking the initiative on adding an extra drive to our list. As the time approaches, we will let you know what kind of help is needed for that drive. It will be the first time we’ve done one with the mobile unit, so we’re still learning.
In keeping with tradition, we participated in the Memorial Day service at the American Legion honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom in this country. I’ve always been moved by such celebrations, and probably now even more so since Nick is currently enlisted in the Air Force. Thank goodness there were no bagpipers this year. The weather was pleasant and the ceremony was well attended. It’s good to be a part of a community that cares so deeply and continues to recognize the men and women in the service. Thank you to our own Lions Club members who have served in the military.
Still to come this month is our most profitable fund-raiser – the Golf Tournament. This is the 8th year we have done this and each one outdoes the last. This year we are going to a new location at Glade Valley Golf Club in Walkersville. We have a few more pre-registered golfers than last year so we anticipate another great tournament. Lions Bob Snapp, Mike Thornett and John Warfield know how to put together a great event!! If the weather cooperates, it’s a day that can’t be beat. Thanks to all who make this happen, both the golfers and the volunteers for the day.
We also thank Lions Tammy and Charlie Hertel for offering their home for our picnic this year. Catering will be provided by Tom & Ray’s Restaurant and we are looking forward to a fun, relaxed evening of fellowship and food.
Saturday the 11th of June is the date of the DVFD bike ride. If you are able to lend them a hand, they are still looking for volunteers to help out for the ride. Charlie & I plan to go on the ride, so we need your support! Please call Tracy at 301.356.5510 and let her know you are available to help. Bikers are morning people so you’ll have plenty of time to do other activities after the ride is over.
We will cap off our month with Installation Night at the Cracked Claw in Urbana. We will close out our year and install our new officers for 2011-12. I know that you will give them all the support and help that you can to make next year even better.
My last special thanks go to my husband, Lion Charlie Holpuch, who has supported me throughout the year as I ran out the door (again) hollering, “It’s a Lions thing, honey!”
Thank you all for what you do for the club, the community and each other. Here’s to YOU, Damascus Lions!!
Yours in Service,
~King Lion Marcia