Lions Hear Pope AFB Inspector General

The Inspector General at Pope Air Force Base was the guest speaker at the weekly meeting of the Sanford Lions Club Thursday, July 29, and presented an informative program describing his Air Force career and changes taking place at the base. Lt. Col. Jonathan Shockey was accompanied by Vicki Johnson, a retired Air Force Master Sergeant who is now Chief of Public Affairs for the 43^rd Airlift Wing assigned to Pope.

Lt. Col. Shockey’s 19 years of Air Force service has carried him to many bases throughout the United States and the world as a C-130 pilot and flight instructor. That includes being among the earliest crews to fly into Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan at the beginning of that war following the 9-11 attack in New York.

But the officer now calls Sanford home as his wife, Joy, is a local native and they plan to maintain their residence here until he retires. The couple has two children and they are members of Cool Springs Baptist Church as is Lion Bucky Phillips who was in charge of the program.

Lt. Col. Shockey explained how Pope AFB was programmed for realignment under the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) law. The Air Force and U.S. Army at Ft. Bragg are still engaged in the transition process, but when completed all installation support functions and real property at the air base become a part of the Ft. Bragg Garrison under the U.S. Army. The air base will become Pope Army Airfield, yet Air Force personnel will still operate air support services for Ft. Bragg. When completed, Ft. Bragg will be home to one-tenth of the Army’s fighting force and that means that the role of the U.S. Air Force there will be more important than ever, the officer said.

President Dr. Marvin Joyner presided, citing a number of members on the sick list to be remembered and recognized Lion Glenn Jones upon his return following a lengthy absence and also Lion Billy Miller who was recently hospitalized. The invocation was delivered by Bill Whiteman and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Jimmy Bridges. Wendell McGee led the club in singing the first and third verses of the “Star Spangled Banner.”

Club to Honor 75 Years of Service to Sanford

The Sanford Lions Club will celebrate the 75^th anniversary of its founding this Thursday, Aug. 5, at the Lions Fairgrounds. Guest speaker will be Lions International President Sid L. Scruggs, III, of Vass who assumed the club’s worldwide top post a month ago in Sydney, Australia at the Lions International Convention.

Local President Dr. Marvin Joyner said this hallmark event will showcase the outstanding contributions and service made to Sanford and Lee County by Sanford Lions since 1935 when the club was sponsored by the Raleigh Lions Club. The Sanford club has gone on to sponsor eight new Lions Clubs and has produced twelve district governors from among its ranks.

Six of those past district governors have worked for months as a committee planning the Aug. 5 celebration, led by Chairman Avron Upchurch. Others are Russel Mann, Milton Somers, Tony Williams, Roy Jernigan and David Martin. Club members and their spouses and guests will enjoy a dinner prepared by Sanford’s Chef Greg Hamm amid special decorations. Banquet expenses are covered by private member contributions and not charitable funds raised by the club.

At the club’s weekly meeting Thursday, July 22, former Lee School Board Chairman Bill Tatum was the guest speaker, introduced by program chairman Charles LaRue. Tatum stressed that Lee County’s school system and its more than 9,600 students are in good shape and rank well when compared to area counties, even Wake County where some business leaders think students get a superior education. In fact, student testing data in recent years shows Lee Schools outpacing those in Wake and other surrounding counties.

Tatum pointed out the great diversity in Lee County public school students where now whites make up only 45 percent of the student population. Hispanic is second with 26.4 percent while blacks make up 22.6 percent followed by American Indian and Multi racial with 5.1 percent. Asians make up less than one percent of students. There are 24 native languages spoken by students in Lee County schools, he added.

Tatum, whose current term runs to 2012 on the school board, said he is confident in telling everyone with whom he talks that Lee County Schools provide a top quality education and operate as efficiently as any in North Carolina with the resources made available. He praised the work of all local educators from the central office staff to teachers in the classroom, saying they work very hard often under very difficult circumstances Lions President Joyner thanked Tatum for his remarks and also praised the work of everyone in education.

Teen Drivers Do the Craziest Things

Teaching teenage drivers can be a daunting duty, but there are still brave men and women who accept the challenge to mold tomorrow’s safe motorists. Sanford Lion Theron Womble is one who faced the challenge and lived to tell about it. And tell about it he did Thursday, July 8, at the weekly Sanford Lions meeting.

Womble, a retired Lee County teacher and driver’s education instructor, described what it was like to sit in the passenger seat of those driver’s ed cars with a foot inches away from the safety brake mounted on the passenger’s side. The state requires all school-age teens who want a driver’s permit and license to take the 30 hour course that requires both classroom work and driving practice. In fact, Womble said the graduated licensing process has done more to improve driving skills of teens and make the roads safer than anything else. It even requires that students maintain passing grades to remain in the program.

He said many students show no signs of having practiced driving before the course. As they learn to turn the steering wheel to round curves or the proper braking pressure, or changing lanes in traffic, the instructor learns quickly not to take an eye off the road or the results can be harrowing.

And then, as with most teenagers, things just happen. There was the time a mother had given permission for Womble to pick up her daughter for a Saturday morning driving session at a friend’s house where she spent the night. The 15-year-old hopped into the car scantily clad with a sheer top supported by spaghetti straps. Womble said he reminded her that school dress code went for driver’s ed too. She explained that she didn’t want to put on the same clothes she had worn the day before, so she just kept on her pajamas. The retired teacher and pillar of First Baptist Church clasped his wrists together, saying he could just see the police slapping handcuffs on him if caught riding around with a teenage female in her in PJ’s. She returned inside and changed clothes.

Local Lions are now engaged in work on the club’s biggest fundraiser each year—The Lee Regional Fair. Advertising for the Fair catalogue is now being solicited from area businesses and professional organizations with Lions making contacts. The public’s support of this project is very important. The catalogue lists all program events, schedules, and the many exhibit categories for which prizes and ribbons are awarded. Fair proceeds help fund the many charitable causes supported by the Sanford Lions Club, which last club year topped $31,000.

President Marvin Joyner presided at the meeting and Theron Womble gave the invocation. Lion Jimmy Bridges led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance. Richard Wallace was welcomed as a guest of Lion Ed Paschal.

75th Anniversary Plans Coming Together

Plans for the Sanford Lions Club’s 75^th Anniversary celebration on Aug. 5 are quickly taking shape now, according to Avron Upchurch who chairs a committee of past district governors from the local club that was charged with making arrangements for the historic mark. Upchurch reported on the group’s progress at the club’s weekly dinner meeting July 1 which was the first meeting led by new President Dr. Marvin Joyner.

Heading the program will be a special visit and address by new International Lions President Sid L. Scruggs, III, of Vass. Also expected to attend will be two members of the International board of directors, according to Upchurch. The ladies’ night banquet will be catered by Sanford’s Chef Paul with a reception beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Lions Fairgrounds followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. Special entertainment is also planned.

In addition to Upchurch, the committee consists of other past district governors still active in the Sanford Lions Club including Russel Mann, Milton Somers, Tony Williams, Roy Jernigan and Dave Martin. The local club has been a statewide leader in producing district governors with a dozen since 1938. The club was chartered in 1935.

Guest speaker for the weekly meeting was Dr. Angela Bright-Pearson of Sanford, a clinical audiologist who owns Bright Audiology on Carbonton Road. She described the latest technologies available to persons with hearing disorders and stressed that the number one cause of hearing loss is noise. She urged everyone to use ear protection devices when in the presence of noise such as any type of machinery or lawn care tools. Also, people are warned to reduce the volume of music, especially the use of earphones as seen with many young people.

She urges citizens to seek the services of audiology professionals who provide effective analysis and diagnosis of hearing loss problems and who will refer patients to other medical professionals if problems indicate the need. Her education includes a master’s degree in audiology and speech pathology from UNC-Greensboro and a doctorate in audiology from the University of Florida. She has taught at UNC-G and UNC at Chapel Hill and served on state audiology boards. She was accompanied by daughter, Hannah, who assisted by distributing literature to the group.

Preston Spence was program chairman and introduced Dr. Bright-Pearson. He also delivered the invocation while Bob Nelson led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance. A special guest and prospective member was Jon Joyner, a math teacher at Lee County High School who is the faculty liason with the Brick City Leo Club, a teen organization affiliated with the Lions Club. Song Leader John Byrd led the club in the singing of “America, the Beautiful,” in honor of the July 4^th holiday.

Joyner Takes Helm of Sanford Lions Club

Dr. Marvin Joyner was installed as the new Sanford Lions Club president during ceremonies held Thursday, June 24, and retiring club treasurer John Burns was honored as the Lion of the Year for 2009-10.

Outgoing President Richard Hendley had charge of the program in which he pointed out the many accomplishments of the club over the past year. He recognized committee chairmen and project leaders and all the Lions Club members who made it all possible.

Last club year’s charitable donations topped $31,000, Hendley said. Those projects included White Cane funds for the blind, $8,800; Matching Funds to help blind services, $6,000; Christmas gifts for the blind, $4,000; Camp Dogwood for the Blind, $3,000; Relay for Life, $3,000; Boys and Girls Home, $2,000, College Scholarships, $1,500; Lee County Extension Service, $1,000; Camp Dogwood Campers, $800; and the VIP Fishing Tournament for blind residents, $500, among others.

Hendley also cited Lion projects that benefit thousands of children each year including vision screening assistance in schools, the Children’s Day reading program held at the Lee Regional Fair, and providing soccer fields for the Sanford Area Soccer League and sponsorship through the Lions Branch Club of the Leo Lions Club for teenagers, and support of the 4-H program. Also, Sanford Lions collected 2,225 pairs of used eyeglasses this past year that are rehabilitated and distributed to the needy around the world.

Hendley said it was a great personal honor to present Burns with the Lion of the Year Award. He said Burns was a constant source of knowledge and support in all business matters of the club and he could not have served as effectively the past year without him. Burns, a Lion since 1987, has been treasurer since 2004 during which time a number of changes and advances have occurred with the Lee Regional Fair and club in general requiring extensive focus on finances. And Burns was honored for working tirelessly in directing the club’s budget during this period of growth.

Past District Governor Dave Martin officiated over the induction of new offiers. In addition to Dr. Marvin Joyner as president, others include Don Morton, president-elect; Nick Novosel, first vice president; Richard Holshouser, second vice president; Dan Hruby, secretary; Bob Nelson, treasurer; George Kostrewa and Ishmael Rivera, tail twisters; and Robert Douglas, lion tamer. Anne Edens will serve as coordinator of the Lions Branch Club. John Poindexter and Preston Spence were sworn in as new directors.

A number of Lions were also recognized for perfect attendance. They included Bill Holt with 22 years, Reggie Jackson with 20 years, Danny Duggins, 12, Reggie Miller, 7, Roy Cashion, 2, and Sidney Boaz, Andy Childress and Woody Seymour with one year of perfect attendance.

New Slate of Officers Elected

The Sanford Lions Club approved its 2010-11slate of new officers and heard about the fine work done by Outreach Missions, Inc. of Lee County at its weekly dinner meeting held Thursday, June 17, at the Lions Club Fairgrounds.

President Richard Hendley presented the list of officers on behalf of the club’s board of directors. It was approved unanimously by the membership and they will take charge July 1. Dr. Marvin Joyner will serve as president while Don Morton will be president-elect. First vice president will be Nick Novosel and second vice-president will be Richard Holshouser.

Dan Hruby will continue as club secretary while Bob Nelson will assume the duties of treasurer following John Burns who has held the post since 2004. Nelson previously held the post in 1988-91. Robert Douglas was selected to be the lion tamer while the tail twister position will be shared by Ismael Rivera and George Kostrewa. New board of directors appointments went to John Poindexter and Preston Spence. The Lion’s Branch Club Coordinator for the coming year will be Ann Edens.

Lion Tim Smith was program chairman and introduced Shirley Crissman, a leader of Outreach Missions, Inc. which operates two homeless shelters here, one for men and one for women. She said the shelters meet an important need for Lee County and their funding is totally dependent on the charity of area churches, organizations and individuals. As a Christian-based project where religious services are held regularly, it does not receive any government funding.

Only four area churches give to the project on a regular basis, Crissman said. She said the shelters operate with only the basics and clients are sent to them by local police, churches, and individuals. Residents must work at the shelters while also seeking employment and permanent housing. They can stay only 30 days. She said donations to Outreach Missions, Inc. are tax deductible and any and all gifts are welcome whether its cash, household supplies, furniture, etc. Residents must have proper identification.

In other business, Sanford Lions will sponsor the N.C. Lions Vision Van July 9-10 at the Wal-Mart parking lot. This free service offers several vital eye tests to screen for potentially serious sight problems. Referrals can be made to eye professionals and financial assistance is available for those who qualify. George Kostrewa is project chairman. The club welcomed two guests at the meeting including Mike Wicker who attended with Willard Garren and Darryl Sapp, a guest of Buckey Phillips.

Haire Presents Program of Old Photos

Members of the Sanford Lions Club enjoyed two entertaining photographic exhibits presented by Jimmy Haire at their weekly meeting Thursday, May 20, at the Lions Club Fairgrounds. Local attorney Woody Seymour was program chairman and introduced the well-known photographer and local historian.

The first slide program featured outstanding photos taken at the 2008 Lee Regional Fair set to a medley of popular tunes. The second presentation consisted of a large number of old images of Sanford and Jonesboro, some as early as 1908. There were scores of past businesses and landmarks that today live only on the pages of books, files of photographs, and in the minds of those old enough to conjure up memories of the thirties, forties and fifties. And for those newcomers and too young to remember, Haire accompanied the presentation with rapid-fire descriptions of each scene.

Particularly of interest were major streets and intersections where narrow two-lane roads have given way to busy four-lane thoroughfares and large structures razed years ago. The changing face—as well as name—of Endor Street that is now Horner Blvd. was among the favorites. Haire was assisted in the program by daughter Allison Haire-Burris. Seymour presented Haire a Lions paperweight in appreciation for his program.

Next weekend will bring the 5^th Annual Sanford Lions Club Golf Tournament at Quail Ridge Golf Club and it is expected there will be some spots left for golfers interested in taking part in the fun event. There will also be a truckload of outstanding prizes including new golf clubs and all accessories. And there will be not one, but two new cars as hole-in-one prizes this year thanks to Wilkinson GM dealership here and Crossroads Ford of Cary. Anyone interested in participating can contact chairman Jim Romine at 774-1173 or any Sanford Lion.

President Richard Hendley presided over the meeting. Bucky Phillips delivered the invocation and Charles Martin led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Two Cars Among Golf Tourney Prizes

The 5^th Annual Sanford Lions Club Golf Tournament is set to tee off June 5 at Quail Ridge Golf Club and there will be chances to win not just one, but two new cars as hole-in-one prizes, according to Chairman Jim Romine.

He said Wilkinson Cadillac, Buick, Chevrolet, GMC of Sanford is offering one vehicle while Crossroads Ford of Cary is providing the second. “We greatly appreciate the support of these companies and many other Sanford area businesses who are helping the Lions bring much needed services to the blind and sight impaired as well as disadvantaged youth,” Romine said.

He added there is still time for golfers and teams to sign up for the fun event and for local businesses to help by being hole sponsors. For $100 an attractive permanent sign bearing the business name will be placed at a tee for all to see and afterwards will be presented to the business for display. Interested golfers or businesses can contact Romine at 774-1173 or at jromine@windstream.net, or any Lions Club member, many of whom have been canvassing the business community for support.

At the May 13 regular Lions meeting, a special program of remembrance, honor, and history was presented by the family of Lion Russel Mann whose brother, Joe H. Mann, lost his life in Belgium at the Battle of Bulge in January 1945. To commemorate the 65^th anniversary, Russel Mann and sons Tom and Tucker along with Tucker’s son-in-law Drew Smith, last year retraced the steps of Joe Mann’s army division from Normandy in France to the Ardennes region in southeastern Belgium where he was killed by a sniper.

The journey was one of deep emotion as well as extensive research. From military records of Joe Mann’s division, to contacting survivors of his unit, to excellent records kept in Europe at local libraries and public offices, Russel Mann was able to stand at the spot where his brother gave his life while fighting for peace. They also were shown where he was interred for two years at an American cemetery.

In 1947 Joe Mann’s remains, along with thousands of other American soldiers, were returned to the U.S. and he was laid to rest in his home of Jonesboro. Five other Lee County soldiers’ remains accompanied that shipment. An outstanding photo slide show highlighted the presentation, depicting the American cemeteries and many memorials erected honoring American soldiers and key wartime sites.

President Richard Hendley presided and Russel Mann gave the invocation. Richard Holshouser led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

District Attorney Doyle Speaks to Club

Even with prison overcrowding a problem in North Carolina, the state must keep violent criminals and habitual offenders behind bars, according to 11^th Judicial District Attorney Susan Doyle. That might mean releasing some lower level inmates to make room, but the trade off is worth it, she said.

District Attorney Doyle spoke Thursday, May 6, at the weekly meeting of the Sanford Lions Club as a guest of Walter Roberts, program chairman. Doyle has been the top law enforcement official in Johnston, Harnett and Lee counties since 2007, following DA Tom Locke. The Republican is seeking re-election this year.

She outlined her goals since taking office in 2007 including cracking down on habitual criminal offenders, more aggressive prosecution of those who drive while impaired including a no dismissal policy, fighting gang activity, and initiating a more efficient worthless check program that aids local business people by making the process less time consuming. DA Doyle presented statistics supporting the positive impact these priorities have had in the 11th District.

The District Attorney is a native of Weaverville, near Asheville, and a graduate of UNC at Chapel Hill and the Campbell University School of Law. She interned in the DA’s office in 1992 while still a law student and realized that representing the victims of crime and the public was her passion. Locke hired her upon graduation and she served as an assistant district attorney until 2007 when she ran for and was elected to the top spot. She is currently vice president of the N.C. Conference of District Attorneys.

In other business, Avron Upchurch gave a planning overview of the special 75^th Anniversary celebration for the Sanford Lions to be held in August. The event will feature many invited local and area guests including Lions from the local, state and international levels. Work continues for the June 5^th Sanford Lions Golf Tournament for which hole sponsors and golfers are needed. And a special meeting May 27 to host guests and potential members was discussed. Bob Groome was extended a warm welcome back following illnesses and other sick were remembered. President-elect Marvin Joyner presided while Walter Roberts gave the invocation and Dan Hruby led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Valuable Services at t.l.c. Home Described

The t.l.c. home, Inc. in Sanford is a special place for ten special people and hundreds of their family members and friends.

Rita H. Oglesbee, executive director, described the outstanding work and services provided at this ten bed, intermediate care facility for children and adults with mental retardation and other disabilities in a program given at the Sanford Lions’ April 29 meeting. Lion George Kostrewa introduced Mrs. Oglesbee and his wife, Kathy, who has served on the home’s board of directors and is currently secretary of the board.

While t.l.c. serves all ages, all current residents are adults. Mrs. Oglesbee stressed the high quality of care ranging from the routine daily regimen to professional services offered by physicians, nurses, social workers, psychologists, physical therapists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, teachers, and vocational trainers.

Work of the direct care staff in building a trusting, emotionally supportive, and close human relationship with each resident is the top priority, Oglesbee said. Also, the community based treatment program which brings residents into contact with other people and local acitivities such as store outings, bowling and fishing adds to the total growth and quality of life for t.l.c.’s clients. She invited anyone with questions or an interest in volunteering to contact the center or visit at 1775 Hawkins Ave.

In other business, President Richard Hendley reminded members of the club’s big 75^th Anniversary celebration planned in August with visitors including state and international Lions officials. Membership promotion night May 27 was discussed as members are urged to bring potential new Lions as guests. And the 5^th Annual Lions Golf Tournament will be June 5 at Quail Ridge Golf Club with golfers and hole sponsors still needed. A raffle was held with first place winner, Worth Pickard, collecting half the pot. Second place was Don Morton who won two Shriner’s fish fry tickets and third place winner was George Kostrewa winning a free meal at the nexty meeting.

John Walden led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance while Kostrewa gave the invocation. Guests included Tom Mann of Raleigh, son of Russel Mann, and Lions Zone Chairman James Kizer of Buies Creek.

Prizes Galore Gathered for Golfers

The Sanford Lions are just one month away from tee-time for the 5^th Annual Sanford Lions Club Golf Tournament to be held Saturday, June 5, at Quail Ridge Golf Club. Golfers will take to the links at 8:30 a.m. for this fundraiser for charity.

Hole sponsorships cost $100 and are still being sought from the local business community. Sponsors’ names will appear on attractive, permanent markers on the course and will be given to sponsors following the tournament. These sponsorships make up a significant portion of the proceeds raised and your support is appreciated by the Sanford Lions.

Golfers are also urged to sign up for the event. Outstanding prizes will be awarded in three flights with nine teams to place and there will be gifts for other feats such as closest to pin, longest drive, raffle winners and many others. Anyone interested in playing or being a hole sponsor can contact any Sanford Lion or tournament chairman Jim Romine at 774-1173 or online at jromine@windstream.net. Entry forms are also available on the Lions website at www.sanfordlionsclub.com.

At the club’s regular weekly meeting April 22, members learned of the work done by the regional ombudsman for nursing and adult care facilities in the seven-county Triangle J Council of Government Region. Guest speaker was Nancy Murphy who serves Lee, Moore and Johnston counties as an advocate for the elderly and others in long term care facilities. She stressed the importance of community advisory committees who work closely with the ombudsmen and facility directors to solve issues brought to their attention.

Murphy also stressed that her job is to help work with both families of residents and facility operators to solve problems and often their assistance is sought by facility managers to ensure that all sides are represented. They are not there in a regulatory capacity, she said. The ombudsmen also conduct training at care facilities and are a source of information for families needed direction in placing a loved one in long term care. Murphy can be reached at 919-558-2703, or by email at nmurphy@tjcog.org.

President Richard Hendley presided while Ismael Rivera presented the guest speaker. George Harvey led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Golf Tournament, Membership Night Coming Up

The Sanford Lions Club is preparing for a busy spring with its annual golf tournament slated for June 5 at Quail Ridge Golf Course and a special membership promotion meeting scheduled for May 27.

Many outstanding prizes and awards will be presented to players at the 5^th annual Sanford Lions Golf Tournament chaired by Jim Romine. Teams are needed and any interested golfers are urged to contact Romine or any Lion or Quail Ridge Golf Course. Local business and professional services are also encouraged to support the Lions as hole sponsors. For $200 your business name will be prominently displayed on a plaque located at a tee and presented to you after the event.

May 27 will be membership night for the local service club with members urged to invite guests in hopes of attracting new members, according to John Walden, past president and membership chairman. Dr. Matt Garrett, past president of Central Carolina Community College, will be the guest speaker with an inspirational message.

Club members welcomed two guests at the weekly meeting April 15. Preston Sellers was introduced by Avron Upchurch and Donnie Oldham was a guest of Richard Holshouser who was also program chairman. Johnny Poindexter led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance. George Harvey assisted in introducing Bo Hedrick, chief professional officer of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sanford and Lee County, Inc. Hedrick gave an informative report of the many positive programs offered by the club to youth in the local community. Last year 1,409 young people were served by the Boys and Girls Clubs.

The organization is in a financial bind this year with the loss of $313,000 in program grants, but Hedrick said its work will continue with some belt-tightening and increases in fees. He said the Boys and Girls Clubs is one of the best values as it provides daily activities for 350 youth that teach positive behavior and life skills education that help keep youngsters out of trouble. These services help save local and state government agencies many dollars, Hedrick stressed.

Accompanying Hedrick was India Berryman, 15, a Lee County High School student who is a junior staff member. India has participated in the Boys and Girls Clubs programs eight years and now works with younger youth as a positive role model. She described the excellent Phenomenal Girls program for ages 12-18 where issues such as teen pregnancy, date rape, and eating disorders among other subjects are discussed.

Need for Tourism Authority Urged

Don Hudson, founder of the successful Sanford Pottery Festival, told the Sanford Lions that it’s time that everyone pull together to promote the city and its major events. He particularly pushed for creation of a local tourism authority to properly focus promotional efforts on attractions like the Pottery Festival, Lee Regional Fair, Temple Theatre, and Old Mill Crank-Up.

He said local events need cross promotion and efforts to sell the whole town as a package rather than separate attractions working independently. It’s hard to get out of town people to travel here for just one event, he said. Hudson said the Pottery Festival needs to grow, but to do so it might have to move. The festival is an expensive undertaking with rental of the Civic Center, tents, electrical services, and police assistance.

And without a tourism authority there is no place to seek funding assistance. Hudson used several examples of Cary’s coordination and support for community events that has helped that community grow from a small town to a large city. “We need a broader vision to attract people to Sanford to the outstanding attractions here. Many people here have done well in a lot of areas, but we need to try and grow to be a smaller version of Cary rather than a larger version of Siler City,” he said.

Hudson said the Pottery Festival hopes to enlarge its wine tasting event started last year into a separate wine festival by 2012 and for the upcoming 10^th anniversary a new chocolate exhibit will be added. In the future there could be specialty coffees, cooking shows, antiques, and barbecue festivals, he said.

Lion Cliff Pepper was program chairman of the Thursday, March 25, meeting at which President Richard Hendley presided. Pepper also delivered the invocation while the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Willard Garren. Six past district governors who are members of the Sanford Lions Club were also recognized. They are Russel Mann, Avron Upchurch, Milton Somers, Tony Williams, Roy Jernigan, and Dave Martin. The local club has sent a dozen members on to hold District 31-F’s top post—making it among top clubs in the state.

Habitat for Humanity Leader Speaks to Lions

By Theron Womble

The Sanford Lions gathered for their weekly supper meeting on March 18. As they enjoyed baked spaghetti for their main course, Lion Bob Nelson quizzed the members on their knowledge of the census. President Richard Henley reminded members of upcoming events and also updated everyone on the health concerns of those not present.

Jim Romine reported that golfers and hole sponsors are registering for the 5^th annual golf tournament to be held at Quail Ridge Golf Course. Tee time will be 8:30 am on June 5^th. Guest for the evening included Bob Chase and Tucker Mann. Billy Miller led the club in the pledge of allegiance to the flag. Johnny Poindexter opened the meeting with the invocation and introduced Gary Wicker, who spoke to the club about Habitat for Humanity.

Mr. Wicker is the affiliated director for Habitat and a life long resident of Lee County. In this part time position one of his responsibilities is securing funds for the building projects. One such project under way presently is a partnership between Lee County Schools, CCCC, and Habitat and is funded by the Golden Leaf Foundation. High school students are working after school on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and on Saturday mornings to complete this building project at 224 Popular Street. When finished the house will be equipped with a solar hot water heater and meet all criteria needed to qualify as a “green house”.

Many businesses located in and out of Lee County donate building materials to Habitat. These donations plus the profits from the Habitat Home Store located on North Horner Boulevard play a major role in offsetting the expense of building a home.

Habitat for Humanity which was founded in 1976, organized in Lee County in 1989 through the efforts of Mary Bass and Carolyn Turner. Habitat is in sixty-five countries and its Disaster Response division is currently helping out in Haiti and Chile. Mr. Wicker stated that not only does Habitat build houses, it builds relationships.

Lions Golf Tournament is June 5

Spring is just around the corner and members of the Sanford Lions Club can’t wait to get out on the links with their many friends at the fifth annual Lions Golf Tournament set for Saturday, June 5^th, at Quail Ridge Golf Course.

Tournament Chairman Jim Romine says many fine prizes will be awarded and there will be a new vehicle presented for a hole-in-one on a designated hole. A delicious lunch will be served at Quail Ridge’s picnic shelter where winners will be honored and good fellowship will reign. Lions are now contacting supporters in the business community selling $100 hole sponsorships. Each sponsor has a handsome plaque naming their business displayed at a hole tee and are presented the plaque for display at their business afterwards.

Romine also urged members to be lining up friends to play in the tournament. He stressed the importance of hole sponsorships and golfers if the event is to be as successful as those in previous years. All proceeds of this fundraiser go to the charities supported by Lions, especially the blind and sight impaired. Anyone wishing to be a hole sponsor or participate can contact Romine at 774-1173, Phil Bradley at 774-7992 or Nick Novosel at 776-0104, or contact any Lions Club member.

Guest speaker for the evening was Dr. Diane Schaller, owner of Willow Creek Animal Hospital at 1902 Bragg St. in Sanford. The energetic veterinarian discussed her volunteer work with the American Red Cross which includes teaching a first aid course for pet owners. She described a number of techniques used to help animals in distress, especially choking which is a common occurrence.

Dr. Schaller also serves as the Lee County Veterinarian with the Lee County Board of Health. She is past president of the Carolina Animal Rescue and Adoption and she and husband, Bret, volunteer with the Sanford Area Soccer League along with giving presentations at schools and civic clubs. They have four sons, ages three to 13.

President Richard Hendley presided and Don Morton delivered the invocation and was program chairman. Reggie Miller led the Pledge of Allegiance. The club welcomed guest Bernie Smith invited by Lion Ed Paschal.

Stevens Center Services Highlighted

The Stevens Center of Sanford strives to provide people with disabilities an opportunity to pursue their dreams as part of the community. How the staff and volunteers work toward this goal was the topic Thursday night, Feb. 25, at the weekly meeting of the Sanford Lions Club.

Guest speaker was Roger Bailey, executive director of the center, who was joined by Mark Neuman, president of the Stevens board of directors. Getting people to be comfortable in the presence of citizens with disabilities is an ongoing challenge and at the Stevens Center there are many programs and activities that encourage interaction between clients and the public with both benefitting greatly.

After all, Bailey said, almost all people experience some form of disability in their lives. It’s just that for some it occurs earlier in life than for others. Primary services at the Stevens Center include a jobs program for the disabled, Living Well activities focusing on living healthier lives and connecting with volunteers to share common interests and friendship, health and recreation opportunities, education, and training programs for families, caregivers, staff, and people with disabilities. The center also assists with independent living support services funded through Medicaid for those who qualify.

Lion Jim Turner was asked by Bailey to relate his experiences at the Stevens Center where he serves on the board of directors and leads a sports program as a volunteer. Turner said volunteers will find that working with those served by the center is one of the most rewarding experiences one can have.

Everett Cox was program chairman and delivered the invocation. President Richard Hendley presided while Tommy Mann, Jr. led the Pledge of Allegiance. Club members welcomed guest and prospective member George Wilberg along with guest Tom Mann of Raleigh, son of Russel Mann. Members were reminded of the 5^th Annual Sanford Lions Club Golf Tournament set for Saturday, June 5, at Quail Ridge Golf Club. Teams are now being formed and hole sponsors are sought to support this charitable event.

Childress Recognized for Jaycee Service

The Sanford Lions Club welcomed a special guest and friend Thursday, Feb. 18, past district 31-F governor and now Boys and Girls Home Chairman Brad Logsdon of Southern Pines. Logsdon has held many district and statewide positions in Lionism and this summer will become an international vice president when club leaders from around the world meet in Sydney, Australia June 28-July 2.

Vass Lion Sid L. Scruggs, III, will assume the post of International President at the Lions convention and will follow that honor with a visit to the Sanford Lions in August to help celebrate the local club’s 75^th anniversary. Having produced a dozen district governors, the Sanford Lions Club has distinguished itself as one of the largest and most active organizations in North Carolina and this region of the nation.

Logsdon presented a special service pin to Andy Childress recognizing 30 years of joint service to the N.C. Jaycees and Lions. More than a decade ago Lions had a program in which those aging out of the Jaycees could join Lions with credit for their years of service in Jaycees. Childress had been a Jaycee 20 years, but when he joined the Sanford Lions Club in 2000 he was never recognized for that previous service. At Logsdon’s request, Lions International verified records and the oversight was corrected.

Childress received a specially designed pin with emblems of both Lions and Jaycees. He is kitchen chairman overseeing club meals and kitchen operations for the more than 100 members.

In other business, several brief project reports were offered. Avron Upchurch reported that annual school eye examinations are underway starting at the high schools with Lion volunteers assisting school nurses. A detailed report will follow the project completion. Lion Golf Tournament Chairman Jim Romine said this year’s event will be on June 5^th at Quail Ridge Golf Course and Lions will soon be canvassing the public for support. Lee Regional Fair Director Ronnie Turner said attractions are being lined up for the fall event.

Guest speaker was Janice Almond, executive director of Deep River Mediation, a non-profit professional service that helps people settle disputes by talking rather than fighting or legal means. Many cases are referred from the courts and differences are settled in 90 percent of cases. This service is open to the public free of charge and they serve children as well as adults. They also have stress and anger management programs and work with local schools training peer mediators.

President Richard Hendley presided while Wendell McGee was program chairman and delivered the invocation. Billy Miller led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Lindsay and Nelda Jones Honored

The Sanford Lions Club held its annual Valentine Ladies’ Night Thursday, Feb. 11, and honored a couple who for many years has led in the planning and making possible memorable nights for others in the service club.

Lindsay and Nelda Jones were crowned the King and Queen of Hearts for the 2010 banquet. Jones, assisted by his wife of 56 years, has long chaired the Lions Special Events Committee planning outstanding themes and decorations for several ladies’ nights each year, including the Valentine event. But this year it was the Joneses’ turn to be escorted to the throne and showered with crowns, roses, and candy in heart-shaped boxes as cameras flashed.

Preston Spence chaired this year’s banquet saying it was an honor for the club to recognize Lindsay and Nelda since their past hard work had brought so much joy to other couples in the club. Bob and Anne Edens escorted the king and queen to their seats of honor as the more than one hundred people present rose to their feet in applause.

A 36-year veteran Lion, Jones also chairs the Christmas Cheer project presenting holiday gift baskets to needy blind and sight impaired citizens in the community. He is a leader in recruiting volunteers from among friends and neighbors for the annual Lee Regional Fair where he works in the Lions Kitchen. As an expert woodcraftsman, Jones has made many unique items such as gavels, tables and other things for the club and to auction for charity.

He owns Benefit Brokers Group which offers many types of insurance. But music was his first love as he earned a degree in music from East Carolina University in the 1950’s and was a public school music teacher for15 years. He also served in the U.S. Army from 1953-56 as a member of the 3^rd Army Headquarters Band performing on some of the world’s biggest stages including the Ed Sullivan television show. And as a Lion some years ago, he led The Hungry Five band, a group of Lions whose rusty musical talents weren’t quite up to Jones’ standards, but nonetheless provided some rip-roaring entertainment at club events.

Lindsay and Nelda have two daughters, Lisa Childress of Fuquay-Varina and Lori Saubers of Sunset Beach, and three grandchildren. They are members of First Baptist Church.

The Campbell University Voices, a student choral group under the direction of Dr. Phillip Morrow, presented an outstanding program of appropriate love songs and show tunes. Lion Clyde Rhyne was recognized for recently being honored at Campbell with a Lifetime Trustees Award, thus the Campbell Voices’ appearance had special meaning. President Richard Hendley presided at the banquet while Bob Hughes gave the invocation and Bill Schubert led the Pledge of Allegiance.

U.S. Census Workers Are Needed

The work of U.S. Census takers this year will determine how and where 400 billion dollars in federal funds are distributed over the next decade and the number of U.S. representatives entitled by each state’s population. And applications for Census workers are now being accepted according to George Wilberg, a recruiter in Lee County.

Wilberg addressed the Sanford Lions Club Thursday, Feb. 4, describing the application process and requirements of U.S. Census workers, or enumerators, as they are known now. Those selected for the temporary jobs will be paid $13.50 per hour and fifty-cents per mile for mileage. Persons must be 18 years of age, complete an application, have proper identification, pass a background check, and satisfactorily complete an employment test.

The U.S. Census Bureau will begin mailing questionnaires to citizens in March. A second mailing will follow to those who do not respond and those who fail to reply after the second attempt will be visited by enumerators. Persons interested in these temporary jobs are urged to contact the regional offices at 1001 S. Fayetteville St, Asheboro, NC 27203, or call 866-861-2010. The speaker was introduced by program chairman Roy Cashion.

In other business, club members heard a recommendation from Tony Williams that members begin collecting Campbell Soup labels for the North Carolina Lions Foundation. They are sent to the N.C. School for the Deaf which in return receives funds from Campbell Soup Co. to purchase supplies. It was noted that many churches and organizations also collect soup labels, but Williams said Lions and their friends who do not already do so could join in this project.

Lions were also encouraged to promote the club’s tasty hamburgers and hotdogs from its Lee Regional Fair kitchen by casting votes for them in the annual “Best of Lee County” contest sponsored by The Sanford Herald. The Lion’s Kitchen juicy burgers and dogs are the talk of the town at fair time and deserve such recognition, members agreed. President Richard Hendley presided and Ismael Rivera led the Pledge of Allegiance. Tommy Mann, Jr., delivered the invocation.

2009 Was A Good Lions Year

The Sanford Lions Club conducted an annual business session at its weekly dinner meeting Thursday, Jan. 28, at the fairgrounds. Treasurer John Burns presented a report to club members which included a PowerPoint presentation illustrating the club’s financial status over the past year.

Burns reported that 2009 was a successful year as the club was able to meet all its obligations to Lions International, the North Carolina Lions Foundation, and to many local programs aiding the blind and hearing impaired and youth. Blessed with good weather and outstanding community support, the club’s largest annual fundraiser—the Lee Regional Fair—was a success.

The annual Lions Golf Tournament was also successful as was the Branch Club’s Relay for Life fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, facility rentals, and several other projects, proceeds from which went to charitable causes.

The club sent over $10,000 to the Lions White Cane projects for the blind and sight impaired and over $3,500 went to help disadvantaged local citizens obtain eye exams, glasses, hearing aids for the hearing impaired and other needs for those with sight and hearing problems. Lions contributed over $4,000 to make Christmas a little happier for the needy in our community in addition to more than $2,000 for youth at the Boys and Girls Home of North Carolina. And $1,500 in need-based college scholarships were awarded to students going to both four-year colleges and Central Carolina Community College. Almost $2,000 sent a half-dozen sight impaired local residents to the Lions’ Camp Dogwood on Lake Norman for a fun summer experience.

Burns outlined several maintenance projects needed at the Sanford Lions Fairgrounds in preparation for the 2010 Regional Fair. Tops on the list are some major renovations of the club’s midway kitchen and refreshment building to meet codes. Maintenance and upkeep of the club’s 52-acres and its five structures is a big job overseen by the club’s officers, board of directors, along with Lion David Thomas who is facility director and Lion Ronnie Turner who is fair director.

President Richard Hendley presided over the meeting and thanked Burns for an outstanding report. Hal Siler delivered the invocation and Bucky Phillips led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Lions Fair Again Takes Top N.C.Honors

The 2009 Lee Regional Fair sponsored by the Sanford Lions Club has again won top honors from the North Carolina Association of County Fairs. The group recently held its annual convention in Raleigh and representatives from the local service club were present to accept two of the most prestigious awards give by the association.

Lions President-elect Marvin Joyner and Fair Director Ronnie Turner displayed the plaques for club members at the weekly meeting Thursday, Jan. 14. For the third year the Sanford event won the Image Award for overall excellence among county agricultural fairs in the state. It also captured the Agriculture Award presented each year by Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler for outstanding service in representing the state’s farming and agri-business economy.

Turner said the repeated wins by the Lee Regional Fair demonstrate the hard work and commitment by the Sanford Lions Club to this project that provides funds to help the blind, sight and hearing impaired, and disadvantaged youth. And for another year it means that other fair sponsors across North Carolina will be shooting to knock the Lee Regional Fair off the top perch, Turner added. But planning never stops for the local fall event and the 2010 fair will be bigger and better than ever.

The club heard a fascinating program on one of the country’s largest growers and suppliers of fruits and vegetables to consumers. Program Chairman was Dale Hulsey who has spent a long career in the poultry industry while the guest speaker was his son, Nicholas Hulsey, a sales specialist with L&M Companies based in Raleigh.

L&M operates internationally growing, harvesting, processing, packaging and shipping fruits and vegetables all over North and South America. Whether its apples, eggplant, corn, peppers, melons, beans, strawberries, cherries and even some produce many have never heard of of, this company brings it to major markets and grocery stores for the consumer.

Hulsey, a graduate of Lee County High School and N.C. State University, showed a slide and video presentation illustrating several aspects of the companies work. He discussed the important objective of getting fresh produce from the field to market as quickly as possible and the latest technology used. Of course, Mother Nature always has an upper hand such as the recent frigid weather that will limit some produce from Florida thus leaving suppliers dependent on California or Central American yields where added transportation costs result in rising prices.

President-elect Marvin Joyner presided at the meeting. Dale Hulsey gave the invocation and Bucky Phillips led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Sanford Lions Welcome 2010

The Sanford Lions Club returned to its regular weekly meeting schedule Thursday, Jan. 7, with President Richard Hendley presiding. Program Chairman Art Coleman delivered the invocation while Jimmy Bridges led members in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Hendley remembered all those on the sick list, asking members to keep them in their prayers, and he welcomed back three Lions, Don Dollar, Dale Hulsey and Preston Spence, out recently due to sickness.

Announcements included an important board of directors meeting planned for Jan. 25 and Hendley urged all members to attend. Dues for the first half of 2010 are now being collected and should be paid as soon as possible. Lions are urged to complete the annual sale of raffle tickets that benefits Camp Dogwood for the blind and sight impaired. The one dollar ticket gives the holder a chance to win a new Chrysler vehicle to be given away at the N.C. Lions State Convention on May 30.

Each Lion has thirty tickets to sell, so the public is urged to support this statewide fundraiser. Proceeds support the upkeep of this recreational facility for the blind located on Lake Norman at Sherrills Ford, N.C. Each summer hundreds of North Carolina blind and sight impaired citizens are sponsored by local Lions Clubs to spend a week at Camp Dogwood where they enjoy many outdoor activities.

The evening’s program was given by Bill Kempffer, owner of Deep River Sporting Clays, located north of Sanford on Cletus Hall Road. This 21-year-old sporting facility attracts shooting and gun enthusiasts from a wide area ranging from the Triangle to Pinehurst. The sport itself consists of a one-mile course containing 10 to 15 shooting stations. Teams of two to six people traverse the course keeping score of the accuracy of shots at moving clay targets. The targets are of various sizes and shapes to simulate various hunted game from birds to rabbits.

“It’s often referred to as golf with a shotgun,” Kempffer said with a laugh. Sporting clay courses came to America in the 1980’s from England and now are very popular here. “It provides the hunter with the skills and competitive challenges of hunting, but without the blood and guts of actually killing animals,” said Kempffer who is a senior shooting instructor at the business. Every spring the local firm hosts an internationally-known competition that attracts shooters and exhibitors from across the nation and around the world. The 2009 event hosted over 1,800 persons.

Anyone interested can call 919-774-7080 or go to www.deepriver.net. There are programs for both experienced shooters and beginners.