Christmas Banquet Well Attended

The Sanford Lions Club celebrated the Christmas season Thursday, Dec. 17, with its annual holiday banquet and ladies’ night attended by almost 200 Lions, spouses and guests. President Richard Hendley presided and Mike Womble delivered the Invocation. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Tony Williams.

The Pledge, said routinely at all club meetings, was anything but routine this night as 55 fourth and fifth graders from J. Glenn Edwards Elementary School joined their strong voices to lift the national affirmation to another level. One adult was overheard saying, “It sure did my heart good to hear those children recite the Pledge of Allegiance.” They do it daily at school.

The students represented the J. Glenn Edwards School Chorus under the direction of Dr. Danny Hester. They presented a program of musical selections which was a highlight of the evening drawing a standing ovation from the audience. Dr. Hester said some 90 youngsters make up the school’s chorus and 55 were able to participate in the Lions program. They were also accompanied by teacher Rhonda Fancher and Principal Patricia Cauldron. Program Chairman Mike Womble, along with Hendley, thanked the school chorus and its leaders for an outstanding program and praised the students for representing their school so admirably.

Two new members were inducted into the club with past district governor David Martin officiating. Judy Douglas was sponsored by Betty Womble and Barry Edy was sponsored by Tim Smith. Martin gave a brief history of Lionism and its work locally and worldwide helping the blind and sight impaired.

Club song leader John Byrd led the crowd in singing several Christmas favorites. A dozen members were recognized for wedding anniversaries falling between Dec. 21 and Jan. 2. Amazingly, those married in just this two-week span represent more than five centuries of wedded bliss. Those present married at least 50 years included Hal and Esther Siler with 61 years, Clyde and Betty Womble also at 61, Jimmy and Ernestine Bridges, 59 years, Ed and Betty Paschal, 56 years, and Bill and Shirley Holt, 53 years.

Ladies night chairman Lindsay Jones and those who decorated the Lion’s Den for the evening received a round of applause for an outstanding job while Jones, with the help of Santa (Bill Schubert) and a team of elves, distributed 60 poinsettias to the ladies. Also shared were 150 homemade Christmas tree ornaments provided by new Lion Judy Douglas.

Lions Honor Veterans

The Sanford Lions Club members honored their veterans and all veterans of U.S. Armed Forces at its regular weekly meeting Thursday, Nov. 12, one day following the national Veterans Day observance. Tail twister Bob Nelson, himself a U.S. Navy veteran, called out the different branches of service and asked veterans of each to stand for a round of applause.

Nelson then went around the Lion’s Den sharing his microphone with many fellow Lions who briefly described their military experiences ranging from World War II, Korea, Vietnam and other conflicts. Russel Mann then read to the group “A Soldier’s Prayer” and Cliff Pepper led in the singing of “God Bless America.”

Roy Jernigan urged members to continue working on the Camp Dogwood ticket sales project. Every year Lions sell chances to win a new car or truck given away at the spring state convention. Proceeds support the upkeep of Camp Dogwood on Lake Norman north of Charlotte where every year hundreds of blind and sight impaired citizens enjoy camp experiences free of charge. Tickets are only one dollar and the public is asked to support this worthwhile cause when called upon by a Lion.

Guest speaker for the evening was Lee County Director of Emergency Services Shane Seagroves. He was introduced by program chairman Tom Douglas.

Seagroves heads a six-member staff in charge of all emergency preparedness programs in Lee County as well as coordinating all emergency services which covers some 700 emergency responders throughout Sanford and Lee County. He stressed that changing times have created many more threats to public safety than existed years ago.

Threats of terrorism, from both foreign and domestic sources, now are a very real part of daily life in local communities. Seagroves said, for example, that his office responded to live bomb threats four times in the past three months. Many such acts are not publicized, but they occur. Local emergency services whether it be Sheriff’s Department, police, firemen, rescue, hazardous material personnel or bomb experts stand ready around the clock to respond to any emergency. This also includes natural disasters such as storms and earthquakes.

President Richard Hendley presided and Wendell McGee delivered the invocation. Bill Schubert led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Sanford Lion Hal Siler thoroughly entertained his fellow club members at their weekly meeting Nov. 5 with a presentation of his art work spanning 46 years in the service organization.

The well-known community leader and land surveyor served many years as the club’s weekly newsletter editor and he used that canvas to showcase his talents as an artist with cartoons and caricatures of Lions and club events. It’s literally a club history in art form. Siler organized a collection of his best works and, with the help of son David Siler, developed a PowerPoint display.

The artist accompanied the presentation with humorous descriptions of each piece, the stories behind them, and tales on those depicted in the drawings. He made a fun game out of the presentation by giving away prizes to those correctly identifying people depicted in the artwork. Many subjects were old-time members from 30 to 40 years ago—some now deceased and some still active members. Some of those with the highest scores were veterans Billy Miller, Jimmy Bridges, Harry Thomas, Avron Upchurch, Bill Schubert, Bob Nelson, Clyde Rhyne, Roy Perry and others who enjoyed the memories and adding comments about those in the drawings.

Some of the late Lions remembered were Vick Keith, Sam Womble, Guy Boger, Elbert Price, Cummings McManus, J. Glenn Edwards, I.J. Morris, King More Willis, Bill Brinn, Jim Huff, Stacy Budd, Ernest Badgett, Olen Sluss, Everett Brooks, and Ed Davis, among others. Siler said one reason for developing the presentation was to inform newer members of those who came before and honor their great contributions in making the Sanford Lions Club what it is today.

Siler also presented the club a framed original of a full-page newspaper feature he created in 1963 for the Sanford Herald promoting that year’s Lee County Fair. It now hangs in the club’s exhibit hall at the fairgrounds where weekly meetings are held. Siler joined the club in 1965 and has tirelessly served in many capacities including president and secretary.

In addition to David Siler, the club welcomed special guest and prospective member Barry Eddy who was introduced by Tim Smith. Bill Freeman was a guest of Mr. Siler. President Richard Hendley presided and Siler delivered the invocation. Joe Johnson led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Sanford Lion Hal Siler thoroughly entertained his fellow club members at their weekly meeting Nov. 5 with a presentation of his art work spanning 46 years in the service organization.

The well-known community leader and land surveyor served many years as the club’s weekly newsletter editor and he used that canvas to showcase his talents as an artist with cartoons and caricatures of Lions and club events. It’s literally a club history in art form. Siler organized a collection of his best works and, with the help of son David Siler, developed a PowerPoint display.

The artist accompanied the presentation with humorous descriptions of each piece, the stories behind them, and tales on those depicted in the drawings. He made a fun game out of the presentation by giving away prizes to those correctly identifying people depicted in the artwork. Many subjects were old-time members from 30 to 40 years ago—some now deceased and some still active members. Some of those with the highest scores were veterans Billy Miller, Jimmy Bridges, Harry Thomas, Avron Upchurch, Bill Schubert, Bob Nelson, Clyde Rhyne, Roy Perry and others who enjoyed the memories and adding comments about those in the drawings.

Some of the late Lions remembered were Vick Keith, Sam Womble, Guy Boger, Elbert Price, Cummings McManus, J. Glenn Edwards, I.J. Morris, King More Willis, Bill Brinn, Jim Huff, Stacy Budd, Ernest Badgett, Olen Sluss, Everett Brooks, and Ed Davis, among others. Siler said one reason for developing the presentation was to inform newer members of those who came before and honor their great contributions in making the Sanford Lions Club what it is today.

Siler also presented the club a framed original of a full-page newspaper feature he created in 1963 for the Sanford Herald promoting that year’s Lee County Fair. It now hangs in the club’s exhibit hall at the fairgrounds where weekly meetings are held. Siler joined the club in 1965 and has tirelessly served in many capacities including president and secretary.

In addition to David Siler, the club welcomed special guest and prospective member Barry Eddy who was introduced by Tim Smith. Bill Freeman was a guest of Mr. Siler. President Richard Hendley presided and Siler delivered the invocation. Joe Johnson led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Lions Honor Volunteers

By John Byrd

Sanford Lions "Fair Appreciation Night" was held in style Oct. 29. President Richard Hendley opened the gathering, welcoming those in attendance. Taylor Batten, 2009 Miss Lee Regional Fair, led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the singing of the Star Spangled Banner by 6-year-old Allison Podlogar. Russel Mann gave the invocation.

All volunteers, friends, spouses and business participants present enjoyed a meal served by Andy Childress and the kitchen committee.

Lion George Harvey, program chairman, recognized all attendees who were involved in fair activities. All gave positive reports of how well every event and activity went. Just to name a few, Bob Jasany reported that the Lions Kitchen did well in sales with the help of many spouses and volunteers. Treasurer John Burns reported a total attendance of 22,00 with gate proceeds exceeding previous years. Teresa Dew gave a report on beauty contests. David Thomas reported on agricultural events in the arena barn as well organized and well attended.

The events were the broiler show, meat goat show and the cattle show. John Cole reported an increase in agriculture and horticulture exhibits. Lee County Extension Director Susan Condlin expressed appreciation for the joint efforts of Lions and the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service working together to continue to recognize the many agricultural aspects in Lee County. Condilin also praised the 4-H Club activity and involvement as partners in agriculture.

The group was entertained by dancers from Hooker Dance Studio and Latino dancers from the Hispanic 4-H Club who performed a Mexican Polka.

Lion Lindsay Jones introduced special guests State Rep. Jimmy Love, Sr. and Rep. Joe Hackney, speaker of the N.C. House of Representatives. Rep. Hackney commended the Lions for a job well done and emphasized the importance of volunteers not only at the fair, but statewide working together to make good things happen. He spoke briefly of activities in the General Assembly and spoke highly of Rep. Love for his performance in the Legislature.

Fair chairman Ronnie Turner commented on how pleased he was with the 2009 fair and is already looking forward to 2010. Closing remarks were made by President Hendley and a drawing was held for mums that graced the dining tables.

Many Sheriff's Department Improvements

Members of the Sanford Lions Club heard the latest update from the Lee County Sheriff’s Department at it’s weekly meeting Thursday, Oct. 22. Detective Sgt. Brandon L. Wall was guest speaker presented by Lion John Byrd who also opened the dinner meeting with prayer.

President-elect Marvin Joyner presided over the meeting while Lion Avron Upchurch led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance. Tail twister Bob Nelson shared his wit with fellow Lions, but then delivered some stirring remarks about the importance of expressing thanks and appreciation to those volunteers who help Lions during the annual Lee Regional Fair and other events sponsored by the club. The club was readying for an “Appreciation Night” Nov. 29 to honor all the wives, neighbors and friends and members of the business community whose support made the 2009 fair a success.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Department has received several state and federal grants recently that enabled the hiring of new officers and equipment to better serve citizens, Sgt. Wall stated in his remarks. One of the biggest is a$650,000 grant through the U.S. Rural Law Enforcement Act for which Lee County was the only sheriff’s recipient in North Carolina.

These funds will provide several jail improvements including a video system connected to courtrooms eliminating the need of escorting defendants physically from jail to court for routine appearances before judges. New fingerprint equipment along with two additional technicians will be acquired as will new computers for patrol vehicles, and two more patrol officers.

Sgt. Wall, a Lee County native and six year department veteran, cited numerous statistics showing improvement in many areas of law enforcement. New specialists employed in areas of narcotics, organized gang activity, and crime scene investigation has resulted in more arrests and knowledge of these criminal behaviors. The overall clearance rate of cases has improved greatly from year to year, he said.

The Sheriff’s support of programs directly benefiting citizens is positively impacting the county. These include a senior citizens contact program with the help of volunteers, a kid’s club, the reverse 911 system where citizens are contacted by telephone if a serious crime occurs in their neighborhood or community, and community watch. Sgt. Wall also urges citizens to be ever vigilant against identity theft by closely protecting important numbers such as social security, bank ID log-ins and credit cards.

Chilton, Cox, Douglas Are New Members

The Sanford Lions Club inducted three new members Thursday, Oct. 15, and recognized more than a dozen members for recent volunteer work. An informative program on the history of the Endor Iron Furnace was given by Lion Worth Pickard.
Past District Governor Dave Martin conducted the induction ceremony for new members Bonita Cox, Janet Chilton, and Robert Douglas. Their sponsors were Anne Edens and Jay Moore. Mrs. Cox is a retired educator and wife of Lion Everett Cox. Mrs. Chilton is a local realtor while Douglas owns and operates a cabinet business.
Lion Avron Upchurch, chairman of the club’s vision screening program in local schools, gave a report on screenings conducted in September at three Lee County schools in cooperation with school nurses. A total of 974 students were screened at Lee County High School, Southern Lee High School and West Lee Middle School during Health-A-Rama events.
Upchurch recognized Lion volunteers Roy Jernigan, Tommy Mann, Jr., Charles Martin, Wendell McGee, Billy Miller, Reggie Miller, Hans Niedworok, Cliff Pepper, Bucky Phillips, Ismael (Ish) Rivera, Jim Turner, John Walden, Bill Whiteman and Tony Williams. They received a rousing round of applause for their work of furthering the Lion’s primary mission of preventing blindness and vision problems.
Lion Jimmy Bridges was program chairman for the weekly meeting. He introduced old friend and fellow long-time Lion Worth Pickard who presented a fascinating history lesson on the Endor Iron Furnace located northwest of Sanford on the Deep River in the Cumnock community.
He announced there will be a tour of the historic site on Sunday, Nov. 8, at 2 p.m. with refreshments provided. While many area residents support the hard work all ready done to promote the site for a state historic park, many have never visited the furnace’s remains and the Endor preservation group hope’s this event will promote more support.
Endor Iron Furnace was built in the early 1860’s and provided a large portion of iron needed for Confederate ammunition and weapons during the War Between the States. It’s product was shipped down the Deep River and then Cape Fear River to Fayetteville to the military armory. Business slowed after the war and it closed around 1874. It’s history is interwoven with other significant developments of the time including the Egypt Coal Mine nearby and the Deep River and Cape Fear Navigating Co. which built locks to allow shipping along the waterways and finally the railroads that surpassed water transportation.
Pickard said this all provides a solid base for an outstanding state historic park that would be a significant attraction for the Sanford area. Several government grants and generous private contributions have been made to the preservation project, but much more work is needed. The project has the support of all area state and federal representatives, Pickard said.
Lion President Richard Hendley presided over the meeting. Jimmy Bridges delivered the Invocation and Bucky Phillips led in the Pledge of Allegiance.

CCCC Ambassadors Speak

By Theron Womble

Phil Bradley opened the weekly meeting by blessing the meal which was prepared by Andy Childress and staff. Tail twister Bob Nelson entertained the audience with his usual wit and wisdom and presented a gift to Walter Roberts for being the oldest member in attendance.

President Richard Hendley welcomed guest Judy Douglas, Barry Eddy, and Deter Niedworok. Roy Jernigan reminded the members that Camp Dogwood Raffle tickets were now available for distribution. The camp which is in its forty-fifth year is a recreational facility for sight impaired individuals. Tony Williams encouraged everyone to seek immediate help from their eye care professional when any changes in their vision are noticed. Blindness can occur without any pain being observed. He spoke about individuals who suffered from Macular Degeneration. Hans Niedworok led the club in the pledge of allegiance to the flag.

Program Chairman for the night was Phil Bradley. He introduced Alex Bridges and Donna Flowers who are Student Ambassadors with Central Carolina Community College. They represent the college at various events through out the year and recently assisted in the golf tournament which raised over thirty thousand dollars for the college.

They spoke of the Distance Education Program which via the internet instructs students in a variety of courses. This type of education is meeting today’s students’ needs as they were unable to attend the usual on campus form of class. CCCC is also leading the way in Green Sustainable Systems. They were first in the nation to formalize a Sustainable Agriculture Program and the first North Carolina Community College to form an Alternative Energy Technology Program; specifically the Bio Fuels Program. Both of these programs are held on the Pittsboro campus. Athletics are also growing at the college as they now participate in four sports in the Tarheel Conference of the NJCAA. The four sports are men’s and women’s basketball, women’s volleyball, and golf.

The ambassadors help with the variety of students services provided on and off campus and they are willing to help in other ways which the community needs. Just contact them through student services at CCCC.

"Splashdown!" Remembered

After a busy September, the Sanford Lions Club settled back into its weekly meeting schedule Oct. 1 at the Lions Fairgrounds with hearty thanks all around to all those who helped make the 2009 Lee Regional Fair a big success on Sept. 15-20.

Club members also were recognized for helping host over one thousand bicyclists and their crews the following week who used the fairgrounds as a night stopover on an annual ride from the mountains to the coast. The club provided a dinner and breakfast for cyclists while the Chamber of Commerce provided bus transportation for those wishing to explore other areas of the city. Lions President Richard Hendley said club members demonstrated their dedication and commitment to both the mission of Lionism and to the community of Sanford in praising all their efforts.

An update on the sick from the club was given and special condolences were paid to the family of Bob Jasany whose mother passed away in Cleveland, Ohio. The club also sent get well wishes to Mrs. Sarah Mann, wife of Tommy Mann, Sr., who has been ill and was a patient at Moore Regional Hospital.

An interesting program on the recovery mission for the Apollo 10 space module from the Pacific Ocean was given by Lion Bill Bradford who served as a helicopter pilot aboard the USS Princeton. With the assistance of grandson Gene Phelps manning the slide projector, Bradford gave fascinating behind the scene details of the 1969 recovery operation that most people only saw on their small television screens at home.

Bradford piloted an SH3 Sea King helicopter similar to Marine One used to transport presidents. They were used as submarine hunters as well as assisting NASA in the recovery of space modules after splashdown in the South Pacific near American Samoa. As pilot on a backup helicopter, Bradford had a front row seat from his cockpit on the helicopter carrier’s top deck. He captured every stage of the recovery mission with his camera from the module’s first sighting to its hoisting aboard the USS Princeton as well as ceremonies welcoming aboard astronauts Thomas B. Stafford, Eugene kA. Cernan and John W. Young. He also displayed many maps, articles and other memorabilia from his experiences working on the NASA assignment.

Lee Regional Fair Starts Tuesday

The 73rd annual Lee Regional Fair gets underway Tuesday at 5 p.m. with the official ribbon-cutting ceremony. Loads of fun and excitement are promised for the next six days until the 2009 edition closes on Sept. 20.

Sponsored by the Sanford Lions Club, the fair is one of the top events of its type in North Carolina. It showcases the outstanding agricultural economy of Lee and surrounding counties not to mention providing excellent entertainment, food, and attractions for the entire family. Backing this up are the three top statewide awards presented to last year’s fair by the N.C. Association of Agricultural Fairs and the N.C. Department of Agriculture.

Lions club members heard final pre-fair reports at their meeting Thursday, Sept. 3. Fair Director Ronnie Turner was out-of-state at another fair conducting business, but phoned in to congratulate club members on the hard work done to prepare for this year’s event. Fair Committee Chairman George Harvey presented a rundown on the readiness of each section of the fair.

Other leaders sharing reports included Lee County Extension Director Susan Condlin, Exhibit Hall Chairman John Cole, Lions Branch Club Coordinator Teresa Dew, and Avron Upchurch who discussed distribution of advance tickets available at most schools, Piggly Wiggly, and from the Sanford Area Soccer League.

The club welcomed several members of the Extension Service Advisory Committee and a number of wives of Lions who work hard every year volunteering at the fair. It was noted that many friends and neighbors of Lions volunteer at fair time and this help is greatly appreciated.

A highlight of each year’s fair is the crowning of Miss Lee Regional Fair to take place on Wednesday night. Pageants this year will cover ages from kindergarten through high school, Dew said.

Cancer Fighters Thank Lions

Lee County’s Relay for Life cancer fundraising committee is closing out its 2009 year with great success despite poor economic conditions that reduced the giving of many donors, Chair Shirley Crissman told members of the Sanford Lions Club Thursday, Aug. 13.

Crissman was joined by Crystal Stubits, committee advocacy chair, and Natalie Leary, regional manager for Relay for Life in Lee, Chatham and Moore counties. Introducing the program was Lion Glenn Stubits, also a committee member and volunteer.

The Lee County event, held at the Lions Fairgrounds and Entertainment Center, this spring raised $161,638 for research to help cure all forms of cancer. There were 45 Relay teams involving 859 participants, Crissman said. And each and every person worked very hard to remember those taken by the disease and honor those survivors who bravely fight it. The organization also pays tribute and provides assistance to familes and caregivers of cancer victims.

Leary, the regional manager, expressed the American Cancer Society’s sincere thanks to all the businesses, civic organizations, churches, schools, and families for their support. She also thanked the Lions Club for use of the outstanding fairgrounds facility and the clubs relay team which raised almost $4,000 for the charity.

Lee Regional Fair director Ronnie Turner gave a brief report on the upcoming fun event set for Sept. 15-20 at the fairgrounds. He said there will be new amusements on the midway and a number of new special attractions such as a professional lumberjack exhibition. Reports from fairs around the country indicate that people still support top quality entertainment close to home like local fairs, Turner said. Noting that the club will begin work nights this week, he urged all Lions to dedicate themselves to the success of this year’s fair. And he encourages all citizens to support this major fundraiser that helps the blind and sight impaired with local needs and medical research.

President Richard Hendley presided at the meeting and Willard Garren gave the invocation. Phil Bradley led in the Pledge of Allegiance and Song Leader John Byrd led singing of Happy Birthday to several members along with a solo entitled “Walking Up the King’ Highway.” Guest Tom Mann of Raleigh, son of Russel Mann, was welcomed.

Lee Regional Fair Around the Corner

Planning and preparation for the annual Lee Regional Fair is a year-round job for members of the Sanford Lions Club. And then about this time of year it’s time to put those plans into action and that’s the case now as the Sept. 15-20 fall spectacular is just around the corner.

Promotions for the fair have started in the newspaper, on television, radio, handbills, posters and billboards. There’s even a Lee Regional Fair page on the popular Internet social networking site Facebook. Fair Chairman Ronnie Turner and the Lions’ Fair Steering Committee promise a week of fun and excitement filled with good entertainment, good food, and good people.

After all, it takes good people to showcase an award winning event like the Lee Regional Fair. From the agricultural community comes livestock, poultry, 4-H competition, antique farm equipment, and food and plant exhibits. The Miss Lee Regional Fair pageant, along with levels for younger girls, provides a stage for the areas loveliest young ladies. There’s entertainment, cheerleading competitions and much more—all requiring the hard work of good people.

And all of this is done to make life better for fellow human beings who are blind, sight and hearing impaired and disadvantaged young people who need a hand up in life. These are the good works supported by Lions Clubs locally and around the world. Sanford Lions thank the business community and local citizens for your help and support of its projects.

At the club’s weekly meeting Thursday, July30, members heard of plans to develop a permanent country village display at the Lions fairgrounds. A working sawmill will be the first attraction erected for this year’s fair with additions planned in the coming years.

Guest speaker was Janice Holmes, volunteer services coordinator for the Enrichment Center of Lee County. She was presented by program chairman Tim Smith. Holmes outlined the many outstanding programs for seniors at the Enrichment Center located at 1615 South Third St. Innovative programs are offered in areas of education, entertainment, fitness, health and wellness.

Holmes announced that the 7th annual Boomer, Senior, and Caregiver Expo will be held at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic Center on Wednesday, Aug. 26 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. More than 100 vendors will participate with educational seminars, health screenings, entertainment and a free lunch. Holmes said volunteers are needed for this event. If interested, call the Enrichment Center at 776-0501.

President Richard Hendley presided and Tim Smith gave the invocation. Lindsay Jones led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Fishing Fun for Sight-Impaired

The Sanford Lions Club works hard all year on various projects raising funds to help the blind, sight and hearing impaired, and young people. Thursday night, July 23, members heard a first-hand account of the joy and excitement these projects bring to participants.

Helen Garrett of Sanford is legally blind. She visited the weekly club meeting and described the fun she recently had at the 2009 N.C. Lions VIP Fishing Tournament held annually at the Outer Banks. Over 500 sight-impaired citizens and volunteer helpers from across the state were hosted by Lions at Kill Devil Hills. Lee County alone sent a busload of excited guests eager to catch fish.

Garrett described how exhilarating it was to stand in the surf and feel the tug of the ocean currents as she competed for trophies and awards given out at a banquet. The guests were also treated to a barbecue dinner and fish fry during the three-day event. She thanked all Lions for providing this opportunity and especially for those who volunteered at the tournament with such duties as baiting hooks and handling the catches for participants. Garrett has also attended summer camp at the Lions’ Camp Dogwood on Lake Norman where the blind and sight-impaired enjoy many recreational activities.

“Although I’m legally blind, if not for that, I probably would never have had the opportunity to go to such places and I greatly appreciate it,” Garrett said.

She was accompanied to the meeting by Jamie Perkins, area social worker for North Carolina’s Services for the Blind. Perkins works closely with area Lions clubs to provide services to the needy and sight impaired. Often Lions will fund a need not covered by the state or the service club will direct someone who is qualified to Perkins for state assistance. Perkins said her agency’s goal is to help the sight impaired stay at home and as independent as possible and for as long as possible.

Many services that help the sight impaired are available through social services such as life skills classes, rehabilitation and jobs training and books on tape. Many assistance devices like white canes, communication aids, eye exams and glasses are provided often with the help of Lions resources, Perkins said.

In other business, Dr. Marvin Joyner reported that advertising sales for the upcoming Lee Regional Fair catalogue was successful although below figures from last year. The club’s marketing chairman thanked all members for their hard work and all business sponsors for supporting the club and fair even in these tough economic times.

President Richard Hendley presided while Bob Jasany delivered the invocation and was program chairman. Tommy Mann, Jr., led the Pledge of Allegiance and song leader John Byrd sang a spiritual entitled “I’m Standing on the Solid Rock.” The club also welcomed visitor Robert Douglas who was a guest of Jay Moore.

Vietnam War Remembered

The Sanford Lions Club received a personal account of the events and emotions relating to the Vietnam War and the impact they had on thousands of veterans like Ron Miriello who spoke to the club at two successive meetings July 9 and 16. His presentations covered a wide range of topics from training to seeing action in the Mekong Delta region to the experiences of service men and women after returning home.

The Navy veteran served on a patrol boat on the Mekong River and its many tributaries in southern South Vietnam. Miriello said their primary mission was to seek out and destroy North Vietnamese and Vietcong forces supplying weapons and occupying river communities. His yearlong tour of duty in the war zone straddled parts of 1968-69, a tumultuous period not only in the war, but also at home.

Miriello paid tribute to veterans of all wars and asked all “warriors” in the club to stand for recognition. He emphasized that the war in Vietnam was not lost by those wearing American uniforms. It was the actions of politicians in Washington that resulted in U.S. forces having to leave Vietnam. He concluded his program with a slide presentation of outstanding photos he had taken during his deployment depicting life aboard the riverboats and the dense jungle and dangers that faced them around every turn.

But, there were also photos of lovely children from villages along the river who would joyfully greet them, knowing the Americans would share their candy and rations. Miriello said if the children were not present upon their approach, it very likely meant that Vietcong were lying in wait. He said there are a number of parallels between the Vietnam War and our wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, one being the growing efforts to limit troops’ authority to return fire and protect themselves unless foes are positively identified.

Another special guest was Lions Zone Chairman James Kiser of Buies Creek who recently assumed the post and is visiting each of the eight clubs in his zone, or section of District 31-F. The past president of the Buies Creek Lions said he is urging all Lions Clubs to get acquainted with one another by holding joint meetings or sharing in project work.

George Kostrewa , chairman of the N.C. Lions Vision Van visit in Sanford July 11-12 reported on a very successful event. Lion volunteers screened 144 citizens and a number of those were referred for professional eye exams, Kostrewa said. He thanked all members who participated in the project along with Wal-Mart for its cooperation.

President Richard Hendley presided over the meeting while Bill Whiteman delivered the invocation and introduced the guest speaker. Tommy Mann, Sr. led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Dew Honored by Fellow Lions

In its 74 year history, the Sanford Lions Club Thursday, June 25, bestowed for the first time the club’s premier award, Lion of the Year, upon a female member. Honored by fellow club members was Teresa Dew who has done a yeoman’s job for Lionism since becoming the first female member in 2004.

The local service club also installed new officers for the 2009-2010 club year which included the Leo Club consisting of teenagers and presented numerous other awards. A large crowd of members, spouses, and guests attended.

Outgoing President John Walden, Jr. praised the new Lion of the Year for going above and beyond in her service to the club. “Whether it’s the Lee Regional Fair, organizing and selling tickets for fundraisers, or spearheading projects like pancake breakfasts and support for the Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Teresa Dew is always there leading others and working hard,” Walden said.

She was coordinator this year of the Day-Timer’s Branch Club which she organized after becoming a Lion. Dew often attends the regular Thursday night Lions meetings to report on or conduct business as well as the Branch Club’s lunch meetings on the second and fourth Tuesdays. In the past two years she and other Branch Club members have raised some $4,000 for Lions International projects for the blind, $2,000 to purchase new tables and chairs at the fairgrounds, and this year raised $3,800 for the Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.

Dew began her involvement with the Lions through a cooperative Habitat for Humanity project for which she worked at the time. “I was impressed with the Lions organization and their hard work and I shared their mission of helping the visually impaired, the needy, and youth in our community. So, I jumped at the chance to join when invited by Dowe Smith who sponsored me,” Dew said.

In addition to spearheading the Day-Timer’s club, Dew led efforts to expand attractions at the annual Lee Regional Fair including the beauty pageants and cheerleading competition. She serves on the Lions Fair Steering Committee which oversees the large operation. She is also active in other community affairs including serving on the board of the Christian United Outreach Center.

Dew is employed at Harvey Financial Services owned by George Harvey who also is a Lions club leader. She has two sons, Ricky, a Fayetteville fireman, and Dustin, a senior at Appalachian State University.

Sanford Lion David Martin was recognized by the club for completion of a highly successful year as District Governor of District 31-F. Martin was also honored with an award from Lion’s International for outstanding service including the chartering of three new clubs in the district. He said he was honored that his last official club visit during his tenure was at his home club. Martin praised Sanford Lions for blazing a trail of success in North Carolina noted by its producing a dozen district governors of whom he is proud to be among.

Martin then asked all new officers to come forward for the installation ceremony including those from the Thursday night club, the Day-Timer’s Branch Club, and the Leo Club.

President for the coming club year is Richard Hendley and president-elect is Dr. Marvin Joyner. Don Morton is first vice president while Nick Novosel will serve as second vice-president. Returning as secretary is Dan Hruby as is treasurer John Burns. Bob Nelson will serve as tail twister and Richard Holshouser will fill the Lion tamer position.
Members of the Board of Directors serving with the officers are Don Dollar, Bill Whiteman, Teresa Dew, and Bill Schubert.

The new slate of officers for the Day-Timer’s Branch Club includes Coordinator Kimberly Cummings, Vice Coordinator Nancy Kimble, and Tail Twister Marie Profio.

Leo Club officers for the new year are President Taylor Batten, Vice President Brianne Schlott, Secretary Brandy Gregson, Treasurer Jayne-Anne Patrick, Historian Meghan Miller, Social Director Anna Johns, and Tail Twister Steven Wright. Lion Melissa Hilliard is the liaison between the Lions and the youth organization.

More than two dozen club members were recognized by outgoing president Walden for playing various roles in the organization this past year. Also, Scholarship Committee Chairman Roy Cashion announced the 2009 winner of a $1,000 college scholarship. She is Velvet McClurkin who graduated from Lee County High School where she was very involved in academic and extra-curricular activities. She will enter N.C. State University this fall. Assisting Cashion on the scholarship committee are Mike Womble, Bob Nelson, and Jim Romine.

The evening ended on a humorous note as the annual presentation of the Motor Mouth Award went to Lion Ismael Rivera. Several past recipients, with tongue in cheek, spoke of the pride they felt upon winning the award and the proper dignity it deserves—even if it’s just a trash can painted gold which must be prominently displayed in the winners home during the coming year.

County Manager Addresses Lions

The Sanford Lions Club celebrated a successful 2009 golf tournament at its weekly meeting Thursday, June 4. Following his final report on the event, Chairman Jim Romine was honored with a rousing rendition of “He’s a Jolly Good Fellow” led by song leader John Byrd.
President John Walden, Jr. presided and Reggie Miller delivered the invocation. Jim Turner led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance. Tail Twister Wendell McGee entertained the crowd with a number of jokes.
President Walden announced that new officer installation and ladies night is scheduled for June 25 when he will pass the gavel to Richard Hendley for the 2009-10 year.
Guest speaker was Lee County Manager John A. Crumpton who was presented by program chairman Billy Miller. The county official explained the heavy revenue toll that the economic recession is taking on the county budget. The 2009-10 fiscal year budget takes effect July 1 and anticipated revenues are expected to be down drastically from the current year.
Fifty-seven percent of Lee County’s budget is derived from property taxes and the county tax base has declined, Crumpton explained. He also explained that county governments are largely extensions of state government, thus budget cuts on the state level directly impact county budgets in several major departments performing services mandated at federal and state levels. And the legislature’s budget struggles this year are well documented with deep funding cuts passing down to local governments.
Crumpton said the state is expecting counties to use their fund balances, or savings, to cover the revenue deficits and this is a burden on local governments. The state requires that counties maintain at least an eight percent fund balance for emergencies. But Lee County department heads have worked diligently to reduce expenses, Crumpton said, including eliminating 26 jobs permanently and making changes in health benefits.

Golf Tournament Big Success

The fourth annual Sanford Lions Club Golf Tournament held Saturday (May 30) at Quail Ridge Golf Course proved highly successful with good weather, good prizes, good food, and good fellowship enjoyed by over one hundred golfers and supporters.

A big congratulations to Lion Sidney Boaz for scoring his first ever hole-in-one from the seventh tee. Boaz didn't start playing golf until he was 70 and now 15 years later comes his first ace. He was playing with Walt Drury, Reggie Miller and Bill Freeman.

Proceeds from the entry fees and business sponsors will help the sight and hearing impaired as well as support medical research and disadvantaged youth.
Tourney Chairman Jim Romine thanked everyone for their participation and financial support. While players chowed down on some good home cookin from Ron’s Barn at lunch, Romine announced the day’s top foursomes and presented a truckload of outstanding prizes provided by Calloway and raffle prizes contributed by area businesses.
First flight winners were:
First Place: Kevin Bunnell, Carl Bunnell, Jack Carlyle, and Jacob Gaster with a score of 55; Second Place: David Fields, Howard Willet, Ron Minter, and Benny Walters, score 56; and Third Place: Jimmy Douglas, Tom Savitski, Tommy Clark, and Bud Jennings, score 61.
Second flight winners were:
First Place: James Williams, Vaughn Challingsworth, Gary Henry, and Phillip Deese with a score of 58; Second Place: Tommy Jones, Steve Jones, Rodney Starr, and Suzie Starr, score 62; and Third Place: Dave Martin, Ralph Sparks, John Walden, and Rod Paxson, score 63.
Third flight winners were:
First Place: Darrell Smith, Donald Lloyd, Brian Carlyle, and Eddie Thomas with a score of 61; Second Place: Wally Jones, George Kostrewa, Mark Meaty, and Glen Phillips, score 62; and Third Place: David McBurnett, James McBurnett, Steve Bordeaux, and Jimmy Cook, score 64.
Closest to the pin honors went to Sidney Boaz who aced No. 7 and Joffree Bradley and Tim Kennedy. Steve Bordeaux and Vaughn Challingsworth were recognized for longest drives.

Economist Addresses Club

The Sanford Lions Club welcomed one of the state’s leading economists as speaker at its regular weekly meeting May 28 at the fairgrounds. Dr. Michael Walden, the William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor in Agricultural and Resource Economics at N.C. State University, discussed the economic recession and answered many questions.
Recessions aren’t uncommon as America has experienced 14 since World War II, Dr. Walden said. But the reason this one is the worst is the tremendous negative impact seen in the nation’s financial sector, and it all began, in his view, with the collapse of the real estate market. Inflated housing values in recent years resulting from an easy flow of money from the Federal Reserve and risky mortgage schemes offered by many financial markets, much of which unregulated by the government, collapsed like a house of cards. The result was a free-falling economy that was as near a total collapse not seen since the Great Depression.
Over the past three years housing values have dropped an average of one-third, the longest sustained decline ever, and American consumers have lost 20 percent of their wealth, amounting to trillions of dollars, Walden said. Economists generally feel the recession will bottom out by the end of this year or early 2010 and show improvement next year. The positive news at this point is the economic free-fall appears to be over with markets declining at a slower point.
Dr. Walden said there will be much more scrutiny of the Federal Reserve and banking practices throughout the recovery period and beyond and as the economy improves there will have to be a reversal of much of the emergency government action taken this year so as to reduce the national debt and likelihood of inflation and higher taxes. Thus, a destimulation on the federal government’s part, Walden said, prompting a chorus of “ayes” from the audience.
Woody Seymour was program chairman and introduced the speaker. President John Walden, Jr. presided and Roy Jernigan gave the invocation. George Kostrewa led the Pledge of Allegiance. Club members stood for a period of silence in memory of Dr. Kenan Williams who passed away last week.
Several visitors were recognized including Marty Rowe with Lion Joe Johnson, Mark Carroll with Lion Dowe Smith, Steve Martin was a guest of his father Lion Charles Martin, and Matthew Shaw attended with his grandfather, Lion John Cole.

Lions Support Relay for Life Event May 15-16

The Sanford Lions Club and its Branch Club members are working hard this week preparing to support the annual Relay for Life for Cancer research to be held at the Lions Fairgrounds Friday and Saturday, May 15-16. And they urge all local citizens, whether touched by this dreadful disease or not, to come out and support this most important fundraiser.

The Lions Relay for Life team, spearheaded by Darlene Turner and Teresa Dew, have been raising funds for the event for months and other Lions have been working behind the scenes to assure the fairgrounds are ready for the thousands expected. Club members will be grilling turkey legs for sale with proceeds going to Relay for Life. Saturday morning, May 16, there will be a Lions pancake breakfast fundraiser at the fairgrounds. All Relay for Life participants and the general public is urged to support this project so that Lions can continue to help the blind, sight and hearing impaired, and youth programs.

These were among topics of business at the club’s weekly meeting April 30 with President John Walden, Jr. presiding. Special guest, Tony Williams, was recognized and welcomed by members. Williams led the club in 1985-86 and was district governor in 1998-99. He moved away from Sanford for a number of years, but has now returned.

Also honored by the club was its newest member, Johnny Poindexter, who received a standing ovation following his induction ceremony. Past District Governor Roy Jernigan conducted the rites which stress the club’s primary mission as a service organization whose motto is “We Serve.” Lion Thomas Douglas was his sponsor.

Poindexter and his wife, Susan, reside in Sanford. They have two daughters and two grandchildren. He is retired after 30 years with the Cooper Tools plant in Apex and now is a volunteer at the Habitat for Humanity center.

The evening’s program was a most informative report on Central Carolina Community College’s Emergency Services Training Center located at the former Lee County Airport site near Southern Lee High School in the Tramway area. Fire and Rescue Coordinator Joey Shue was the speaker and called the center one of Lee County’s best kept secrets.

Part of CCCC’s Continuing Education department, the center’s training programs serve all basic and continuing certification needs for emergency responders in the college’s three county area of Lee, Harnett and Chatham. But the outstanding site along with innovative planning and utilization of resources has turned the local center into a mecca for emergency services units from throughout North Carolina and the eastern U.S.
Police, fire and rescue departments from a wide area now come to Sanford for specialized training that they cannot get anywhere else. Also included at the facility are the school’s automotive restoration program and motorcycle safety courses which, along with emergency vehicle training, utilize the former airport runway areas.
Shue said this is generating a tremendous economic impact in the community as often hundreds of participants come from out-of-town and stay at local motels and eat in local restaurants.

Lion Ish Rivera was program chairman and delivered the evening’s invocation. John Cole led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Breakfast, Golf Tourney Approaching

The Sanford Lions Club heard reports on several upcoming events and a timely program on the United States’ relations with Iran at its weekly meeting Thursday, April 23. President John Walden, Jr. presided and the invocation was given by Roy Jernigan.

Tickets are now on sale for a Lions pancake breakfast on Saturday morning, May 16, at the fairgrounds following the annual Relay for Life benefit to fight cancer. This major Cancer Society fundraiser involving thousands of cancer survivors, family and friends begins at the fairgrounds on Friday, May 15 and will run until the next morning. The public is urged to come out and enjoy good food, fun, and fellowship while also helping fight this terrible disease.

Chairman Jim Romine gave a report on the annual Lions Golf Tournament set May 30 at Quail Ridge Golf Course. This fun event has become notable for its great prizes and delicious lunch catered by Ron’s Barn provided for golfers. Romine announced that this year’s lunch will be sponsor by ERA Ammons Realty headed by Lions Branch Club member Cindy W. Ammons. More golfers and hole sponsors are needed for the tournament. Anyone wishing to support the Sanford Lions and the many charities it aids is urged to contact Romine or any Sanford Lion for information or go to the club’s website at www.sanfordlionsclub.com.

Guest speaker for the evening was retired Army Lt. Col. John Hillen who spoke on the delicate relations now between the United States and Iran. He was introduced by program chairman John Cole.

During his 20-year active military career, Hillen served in Vietnam and in the 1970’s was an advisor in Iran where he learned about the country and her people first hand. Currently, less than half its young population remembers when Iran was a constitutional monarchy and a U.S. ally. Today the country is controlled by a conservative Muslim theocracy, but there is considerable unrest among much of the 67 million population, Hillen noted.

Iran’s drive to obtain nuclear weapons is the biggest threat, but a military option against the country would be unwise, Hillen said, instead favoring diplomacy and support of groups favoring democracy within the country. Military action would have to be massive and would create more tension and anti-American sentiment both in the Middle East and around the world. He said there are still several areas of common interest between the U.S. and Iran and these should be pursued diplomatically.

New Officers Elected for 2009-10

The Sanford Lions Club elected its 2009-10 slate of officers Thursday, April 16, at its weekly dinner meeting at the Lions Fairgrounds. President John Walden, Jr. presided over the election and presented the names of those recommended by the club’s board of directors.

New officers followed by their positions include: Richard Hendley, president; Marvin Joyner, president-elect; Don Morton, first vice-president; Nick Novosel, second vice-president; Dan Hruby, secretary; John Burns, treasurer; Bob Nelson, tail twister; and Richard Holshouser, lion tamer.

Officers of the Lions Day-Time Branch Club are Kimberly Cummings, coordinator; Nancy Kimble, vice-coordinator; and Marie Profio, tail twister. Board of Director members include Don Dollar, Bill Whiteman, Teresa Dew, and Bill Schubert. They will assume their duties July 1.

Guest speaker was Stacey Bruton, teacher for the visually impaired in the Harnett County Schools. Blind since birth, she described her responsibilities as a teacher and advocate for visually impaired students at the several schools in which she works in Harnett. She also demonstrated several pieces of equipment and new technologies used by the blind.

They included a Braille writer, similar to a typewriter, for which she is raising money to purchase more, a laptop computer with voice assisted technology, and a cell phone with similar aids. Mrs. Bruton noted that new devices for the blind, as well as for other disabilities, with the latest adaptive technologies are very expensive and help from organizations like Lions Clubs is greatly appreciated.

Mrs. Bruton explained that she and a twin sister were born prematurely in Cumberland, Md. She received too much oxygen in the incubator resulting in a detached retina. Her twin has normal vision. But her parents saw to it that she attended regular public schools and completed college with a degree in early childhood and elementary education and she is now pursuing a master’s degree in reading.

Program Chairman Preston Spence and President Walden, who visited with the teacher at school, said they were very impressed with the work they saw Mrs. Bruton doing with her students and expressed the club’s appreciation for her important work and program. She was accompanied by her husband, Wayne Bruton, who also works with persons with disabilities.

Spence opened the meeting with prayer and John Cole led the Pledge of Allegiance. Song leader John Byrd sang a solo of the Gospel song, “I know who holds tomorrow.” Several reports on upcoming events were given including a pancake breakfast scheduled Saturday, May 16, following the Relay for Life at the fairgrounds. Tickets are $5 and open to the public. The Sanford Lions Golf Tournament is Saturday, May 30, at Quail Ridge Golf Course and hole sponsors and golfers are needed.

Flea Market, Golf Tourney Work Ahead

The Sanford Lions Club is now in the midst of a busy spring season of fundraisers to benefit the blind, hearing impaired, and youth. And the public’s support is greatly appreciated.

Already underway is the weekly Lions Regional Flea Market held each Saturday through July 25 at the Lions Fairgrounds and Entertainment Complex on Colon Road and Weatherspoon St. Booth spaces are available for $15 each Saturday. Applications are available online at sanfordlionsclub.com and click on flea market. Information is also available from President John Walden, Jr. at 774-8950 and Lions Branch Club Coordinator Teresa Dew at 774-6273.

The annual Lions Golf Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, May 30, at Quail Ridge Golf Course. Chairman Jim Romine and club members are working hard to secure both hole sponsors and golfers for this popular event. Hole sponsors have their names and businesses prominently displayed on the course on attractive plaques which they keep following the event. Golfers also vie for outstanding prizes and are treated to a delicious lunch catered by Ron’s Barn. For more information contact Romine at 774-1173 or any Lion.

Sanford Lions will also participate in the annual Cancer Society’s Relay for Life set May 15-16 at the Fairgrounds. Darlene Turner is captain of the club’s team and members are participating in various activities to raise funds for cancer research and to help those battling this disease. On May 15 Lions will cook turkey legs during the main event and will serve breakfast at the fairgrounds on Saturday, May 16. For more information contact Turner at 777-6961.

Guest speaker at the club’s weekly meeting April 2 was Bill Stone, 4-H Youth Development Agent with the N.C. Cooperative Extension in Lee County. He was introduced by program chairman Hans Niedworok. Stone’s topic was public speaking as he shared tips for successfully addressing audiences. He directs a very active public speaking program for youth involved in 4-H and impresses upon them the importance that successful speaking skills can have on one’s future.

Stone shared ten tips with the club and gave excellent examples of each one. Club members had many questions and praised Stone for his presentation. Stone, who grew up in Cary, graduated from UNC-Greensboro in 2000 and began work here the following year. He earned his Masters Degree in 2006 from N.C. State. Last year he married the lovely Audrey Jo Thomas who accompanied him. She is a counselor at Greenwood Elementary School.

Canine Tracker Speaks to Club

The Sanford Lions Club learned some fascinating facts about man’s (and woman’s) best friend at its regular meeting Thursday, March 26. Guest speaker was Jim Pitts of Olivia, a professional dog tracker and trainer of dogs used to locate lost animals. He is a tracking judge and vice president of the American Kennel Club.

Accompanying Pitts was his skilled partner, Sabre, an eight-year-old Doberman Pincher whose innate intelligence and powerful sense of smell are beyond anything a human can understand or describe, Pitts said. He said the training process is much more the human learning from the canine rather than vice-versa.

He described several of the duo’s 29 successful search missions, all done without charge, but with great gratitude and appreciation of animal lovers. Most of their queries have been dogs, cats and horses. Their experience shows that animals leave a distinct “leaving scent” when moving away from their home environment and this can be detected by tracking animals. Many lost animals will remain in the general area of their home.

Such was the case of a lost Golden Retriever in the Chapel Hill area several years ago. Pitts, Sabre, and the lost dog’s owners searched a wide area, finding a likely hiding place used by the dog behind a horse barn—but no sighting of the dog. But the fresh owner’s scent in the area led the lost dog home by the next morning, Pitts said. Sabre also tracked a lost horse to a remote rural road where police found trailer tracks. Stolen by horse thieves, the tire tracks helped solve the case and return of the animal.

Pitts took many questions from club members. Asked about the Doberman’s reputation as a vicious dog, he said all breeds of dogs are a product of training and care. Just as with children, dogs will turn out the way they are nurtured and trained. He and his wife specialize in Dobermans and his wife is a three-time national winner for that breed in AKA competition. You can contact Pitts at jimpitts9@aol.com.

President John Walden, Jr. presided and Cliff Pepper opened the dinner meeting with prayer and was program chairman. Bob Edens won the half-and-half raffle which he generously donated to the club. Visitor and prospective member John Poindexter was welcomed. Updates were given on the Lions Golf Tournament May 30 at Quail Ridge Golf Course and the sales of hole sponsors and recruiting golfers. The Lions Flea Market opens Saturday, April 4, at the fairgrounds, and the club will participate in the Relay for Life event supporting cancer research May 15-16 at the Lions Fairgrounds. Support of all these events contributes to many charitable causes.

Tim Smith Joins Club

The Sanford Lions Club welcomed a new member at its weekly meeting Thursday, March 12, and heard District Governor David Martin speak on membership development. President John Walden, Jr. presided with the invocation given by Roy Jernigan and Cliff Pepper led the Pledge of Allegiance.

The newest Lion is Tim Smith who was sponsored by his father, Dowe Smith. District Governor Martin presided over the induction. Smith resides in Sanford with his wife, Donna. They have two daughters, Ashley and Devon, both of whom are students at UNC-Wilmington. Smith is a real estate broker with Interstate Companies of America. They are members of Jonesboro Heights Baptist Church.

Martin’s address on membership was timely as he related the experiences of helping organize a new Lions Club in Fayetteville this month. As he and a representative of Lions International visited community leaders in the west Fayetteville area they found them to be receptive and eager to join a club with a well-established mission and reputation throughout not only the community, but the nation and world as well.

Martin urged Sanford Lions to continue efforts to attract new members by stressing the club’s many accomplishments over the past 73 years and its support of providing assistance to the blind, sight impaired, hearing impaired, and programs for youth. From helping fund eye exams and glasses for the disadvantaged to fairground fields where thousands of youth play baseball and soccer, the club’s work has benefited tens of thousands of people in its long history, Martin stressed. And this is the message Sanford Lions need to share with supporters and prospective members.

Big events coming up soon to help raise funds for these charitable causes include opening of the Lions Fairgrounds Flea Market on Saturdays starting April 4; hosting the Cancer Society’s Relay for Life at the fairgrounds on May 15-16 with a club team participating; and the annual Sanford Lions Golf Tournament set for May 30 at Quail Ridge Golf Course. The club’s biggest fundraiser is the annual Lee Regional Fair scheduled Sept. 15-20.

Lions Plan Busy Spring

The Sanford Lions Club is gearing up for an active spring season with several exciting community events planned. And, of course, planning is already underway for the club’s biggest attraction—the Lee Regional Fair set for Sept. 15-20. Lions will be working hard to solicit the support of all area citizens for these projects that help fund the many charitable projects of the club.

The second annual Lee Regional Flea Market will open each Saturday morning at the Lions Fairgrounds starting on April 4 through July 25. Market hours are 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and anyone interested in booth space can contact any Lion. The application form is also available on-line at sanfordlionsclub.com.

The Third Annual Lions Golf Tournament at Quail Ridge Golf Course is set for Saturday, May 30, according to chairman Jim Romine. This has proven to be a fun day highlighted by outstanding prizes and gifts along with a delicious lunch for all those golfers looking for some friendly competition and fellowship. Tournament leaders are now recruiting golfers, hole sponsors, and support from the business community for prize donations.

Guest speaker for the March 5 meeting was Pete Wilberg who is an authority on a subject dear to many men—antique cars. He is known nationally for his lifelong passion of collecting and restoring classic automobiles. The New York native moved to Lee County in 2000 where he has been active in the Antique Automobile Club of America and taught a car restoration course at Central Carolina Community College. He spent over 30 years teaching math both on the high school and college levels in New York.

He has restored thousands of cars including many rare and expensive collector’s models. And there’s hardly a make or model that he doesn’t know intimately. He told many interesting stories relating to his acquisition of antique models all over the U.S. and Canada and how he turned them into collector items. His interests now are in American Motor Co. cars such as the Rambler. He drove a Rambler convertible to the meeting for display. He is the founder of the Rambler Club of America with over 12,000 members.

Lion Jay Moore was program chairman. President John Walden, Jr., presided while Roy Jernigan gave the invocation and Theron Womble led the Pledge of Allegiance. The club welcomed guest Larry Palmer who was introduced by Reginald Miller. Walden also made a special presentation to veteran Lion Tommy Mann, Sr. honoring him for completion of his 66th year in the Sanford Lions Club. The club gave him a rousing standing ovation.

Hal Siler Honored by Lions

One of Sanford’s most outstanding citizens was honored Thursday, Feb. 27, by the Sanford Lions Club as recipient of the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship. Hal Siler, a Lion for 44 years, received a standing ovation from his fellow club members in recognition of his many years of dedicated service and immeasurable contributions to Lionism. President John Walden, Jr. presented him a beautiful plaque.

The Melvin Jones Fellowship is named for the founder and longtime leader of Lions and was established by Lions Clubs International as the highest form of recognition to acknowledge an individual’s dedication to humanitarian service.

Siler has served the club as president, secretary, zone chairman, district secretary, membership chairman, tailtwister, and member of the board of directors. He has long been the club’s “artist in residence” and its diplomat and liaison throughout the community with his many other interests and roles in Sanford and Lee County. These include his many years of service with the local chamber of commerce and industrial development groups, among many others.

He and his wife, Esther, are longtime members of First Baptist Church. They have three children Tom, David and Judy.

Guest speaker for the meeting was Donald R. Belk, a regional planner with the BRAC (Base Realignment and Closure) Regional Task Force headquartered at Ft. Bragg. He presented an interesting overview and update of the massive expansion program now underway at the U.S. Army base. Some $2.8 billion in military construction is planned over a five year period creating thousands of jobs for workers in this region.

Belk said planners hope to help area counties and towns develop long-range goals for positive, sustainable growth throughout the region as a result of this infusion of federal funds. Every aspect of life will be impacted, Belk said, from workforce training to transportation needs to schools to emergency services to housing. He said Lee County’s positioning between Ft. Bragg and the Research Triangle Park area should be a positive factor in its development planning.

To learn more about the BRAC programs anytime go to www.bracrtf.com.

Special guests included Carl Harrell of Welaka, Fla., a past Lions district governor who now serves as a club development consultant. He is working with District Governor Dave Martin of Sanford in establishment of a new club in Fayetteville. Also present was Don Boudreau of the Western Harnett Lions Club who is district governor-elect of District 31-F. Charles Martin was program chairman and presented the invocation while Don Morton led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Roberts Are Crowned King and Queen

The Sanford Lions Club honored their spouses and significant others Thursday, Feb. 12, at the club’s annual Valentine’s Social Ladies Night. More than one hundred members and guests enjoyed a fine dinner prepared by the food committee staff.

The Lion’s Den at the fairgrounds was appropriately decorated with red hearts, candles and bunting. Fourteen beautiful arrangements of tulips adorned the tables and the names of guests were drawn for the flowers at the program’s end. Lindsay Jones and the decoration committee were praised for an outstanding job.

Special entertainment for the evening was provided by a group from the Festival Singers of Lee County led by Paul Kelly. They sang several holiday-period arrangements and concluded with a medley of love songs appropriate for the Valentine’s celebration.

The highlight of the evening was the crowning of the King and Queen of Hearts, an annual Lions tradition at this event where a deserving couple is picked for the honor. This year’s King and Queen are Walter and Tulline Roberts who were tapped from the audience and escorted to their thrones and presented crowns and red roses for the lady. A number of club members shared humorous stories about the couple, especially King Walter who is well-known for his sharp wit.

“I appreciate this dubious honor,” Roberts said, “but my wife really does deserve to be queen. She’s been a queen to me for 63 years,” he said with a nod and a smile to his wife. They celebrated their 63rd anniversary on Feb. 2. “I can always remember that because it’s Ground Hog Day,” Roberts said with a laugh.

Roberts has been a dedicated Sanford Lion for 33 years and has served as president, fair chairman, and tail twister. He retired after 32 years with the U.S. Postal Service when mail was transported by train. He rode the rails between Hamlet and Washington, D.C. in the mail car every work day. “That was more than a 700 mile commute daily,” he joked. Mrs. Roberts also worked 32 years with Carolina Farm Credit where she was assistant vice-president upon retirement. They have two daughters, Mrs. Penny Christian of Sanford and Mrs. Patricia Causey of Lenoir.

Tim and Donna Smith were welcomed as guests of his parents Lion Dowe and Frances Smith. President John Walden, Jr., presided and the invocation was given by Roy Jernigan. Reggie Miller led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Lions Bleed for the Blind

Members of the Sanford Lions Club rolled up their sleeves and literally bled to support programs for the blind, sight and hearing impaired and disadvantaged youth. This blood-letting occurred at the service club’s weekly dinner meeting Thursday, Feb. 5.

But it was all for a good cause. Blood samples from Lions will be entered in a DNA bank and—the good part for the club—each donor received a $20 check that was immediately contributed to Lions’ charity funds. On this night 51 club members participated meaning $1,020 was raised. More donations for the club will be taken at the next meeting which is the annual Valentine’s Ladies Night.

This DNA project is sponsored by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the UNC Medical Center. Called the Environmental Polymorphisms Registry, or EPR, scientists will use the DNA samples to look for differences, or polymorphisms, in people’s genetic material. Genetic differences can predispose some people to certain diseases or some may actually provide protection from disease.

The DNA registry will be studied by scientists for up to 25 years covering a broad range of health fields. Confidentially is assured through the National Institutes of Health, even under threat of court subpoena. Project workers said 20,000 participants are needed and they are over half-way to the goal.

Clinical staff present to secure the Lions donations included Alexis N. Bolton, Robyn D. Stephens, and Avery Harris. Bolton briefly described the research project and then paperwork was completed and blood drawn. The blood sample consisted of only a little more than one tablespoon.

President John Walden, Jr. presided and the invocation was given by Teresa Dew. Jim Romine led the Pledge of Allegiance. Program chairman was Secretary Dan Hruby.

N.C. Transportation Issues Discussed

A large crowd turned out Thursday night, Jan. 22, for the weekly meeting of the Sanford Lions Club at the Lee County Fairgrounds. Members dug into a delicious country meal of pork, collards, blackeyed peas with onions, cornbread, biscuits and apple cobbler prepared by the club’s food committee.

President John Walden, Jr. called upon Roy Jernigan for the opening prayer and Billy Miller led the Pledge of Allegiance. Ticket sales for a Jan. 31 pancake breakfast fundraiser were discussed emphasizing the need to sell as many as possible. Proceeds will go to the charitable works supported by the Lions. The breakfast will take place at Andy’s restaurant in the Super-Walmart Shopping Center on Saturday, Jan. 31 from 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Andy’s of Sanford is providing all supplies, thus all proceeds go to charity.

Lion Richard Holshouser introduced guest speaker Donnie Oldham, president of Sanford Contractors, Inc., who delivered an interesting program on transportation issues facing North Carolina. A major highway contracting firm, Sanford Contractors and others are experiencing the impact of the nation’s economic crisis, Oldham said.

Declining tax revenues and the overall state budget deficit has brought the N.C. Department of Transportation to a practical standstill in terms of letting bids on new highway projects. Many projects have completed the planning and design phases, but can’t move forward with actual construction. The Sanford U.S. 421 by-pass delay is an example of that. “The money ran out before the work did,” Oldham said.

Oldham showed a slide presentation with charts and graphs indicating the problems and proposed spending if the new federal economic stimulus package passes in Congress. While the program was promoted as an infrastructure and public works plan to create jobs, much of the proposed funding would go to non-construction programs, the contractor said.

Oldham said the economic crisis is most unfortunate for both the construction industry and state highway officials who generally do a good job in managing North Carolina’s roadways—the second largest highway system in the nation. While the DOT gets a lot of bad publicity for mistakes that are made, it must be said that most of what they do is done properly and professionally and we don’t see the good things played up in the media. One of their biggest problems is poor public relations, Oldham said.

2008 Lee Fair Takes Top Awards

The Lee Regional Fair, sponsored by the Sanford Lions Club, for the second straight year has taken top honors from the N.C. Association of Fairs for its 2008 event.
It is judged in the association’s division two which includes fairs up to 40,000 attendance.

Fair Director Ronnie Turner displayed four plaques at the club’s weekly dinner meeting Thursday, Jan.15 that were presented at the association’s annual meeting in Raleigh Jan. 7-9. “We cleaned house on awards,” Turner declared with a broad smile.

One was the Image Award which judges present to the fair that best represents all aspects of what an excellent agriculture fair should be—agriculture exhibits, entertainment, food, community participation, and all round appearance and cleanliness.

Turner said winning this award two years in a row means that other fairs across the state are now “gunning for us.” “But that’s okay, we’re just going to get bigger, meaner and better. We must keep moving up,” Turner said.

The local fair took the Agriculture Award meaning it incorporated more agriculture related exhibits than any other fair in its division. In addition, the Lee Regional Fair captured the Commissioner of Agriculture Award presented by Steve Troxler for being the best at showcasing farm products in North Carolina.

The fourth honor brought to Sanford was the Youth Award for being the best fair in terms of youth participation. Much of this is made possible by the partnership with the N.C. Cooperative Extension’s Lee County office headed by Susan C. Condlin. It entire staff and network of volunteers through 4-H and various area farm committees make up a vital part of the Lee Regional Fair.

At the statewide fair meeting, Turner was selected to serve on the board of directors of the N.C. Association of Agricultural Fairs. He said planning for the 2009 Lee Regional Fair is already underway by the Lions Fair Steering Committee. Many improvements at the fairgrounds in Sanford are being considered, but availability of funding will determine what gets done by the next fair.

Turner emphasized that even with the overall economic downturn, local fairs are considered affordable and convenient family entertainment for citizens. And the Lee Regional Fair will return this year with its best ever line-up of exhibits, shows, and rides.

President John Walden, Jr. presided and Bob Hughes delivered the invocation. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Glenn Stubits.

Dr. Hall Addresses Club

The Sanford Lions Club held its first weekly meeting Jan. 8 since the holiday season with a large group in attendance. President John Walden, Jr. presided and Avron Upchurch delivered the invocation prior to a delicious meal served by the club’s food committee led by Andy Childress. Bill Whiteman led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Several Lions or their family members who are sick were remembered and thoughts and prayers were extended to Darlene Turner who underwent surgery this week at Central Carolina Hospital. The club extended a warm welcome back to Don Dollar who has been out recovering from illness. Guest John Poindexter, who is associated with Habitat for Humanity, was recognized.

It was announced that the Lions will hold a fundraiser Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, Jan. 31, from 7 to 9 a.m. It will be held at Andy’s Restaurant in the Wal-Mart Shopping Center on South Horner Blvd. Advance tickets are $5 and $6 at the door. All proceeds will go toward the charitable works supported by Lions and the public is asked to support this cause, according to Theresa Dew, one of the organizers.

The night’s guest speaker was presented by Lion Dave Godwin. Dr. Bill Hall presented a very informative program on diabetes from both the viewpoints of a physician and as a 44-year survivor of this serious medical condition. The rapid rise in diabetes in America is alarming and also disturbing is the fact that many people have grown accustomed to the side-effects of mid-level blood sugar increases, thus diminishing their fear and concern of a potentially worsening condition.

He urges that people strive to meet the nationally recognized level of between 90-120 blood sugar before meals. Those with verified higher levels should seek medical assistance and follow a plan of diet control and medication if needed. Dr. Hall traced the history of medical advances in treating diabetes from the discovery of insulin and what it does in the body to development of shorter acting insulin and diet controls.

He said much research continues in an attempt to discover more convenient means of introducing insulin into the body. He pointed to the new glucose monitoring
devices and insulin pump implants that continually control glucose levels. Dr. Hall introduced Anah Kim, a Duke University physician’s assistant student, serving temporarily in his local medical office.