Fellow Lions:

First, I want to congratulate Lion Bob DeVinney on his having a great year and for a job well done.  It’s a hard act to follow!  Under his guidance, the Evening Lions Club also had a great year in receiving awards and recognition.

The the economy being what is had been these past few years, we have not been able to raise funds to support our charities as we have done in the past.  Unless there is a quick economic turnaround, the Club faces the challenge to sell more tickets and recruit new members.  Both are important for success.  More members means greater participation and greater results.  If all current members sold ten tickets for our events, that could translate to around $9,000 for each event before expenses.  This is what we have to do to support the very worthwhile charities to which our Club has dedicated itself.

It is my hope that we can continue with Bingo as this is one of the ways we also help our local community.  Bingo provides entertainment and prizes to many area people who come to play.  It provides funds to worthy local needs, of which there are many.  We need Club membership to work our Friday Bingo nights.  Because there are Teams, assignments are spread out.

The most important things I hope for our Club is to raise money and have fun doing so.  The only way we can achieve this is to have happy hearts and a willingness to volunteer.  Allow me to reiterate the following:

“Alone we can do so little, but together we can do so much.”  -  Helen Keller

I feel privileged to be a member of this Club and honored to be your President.  I will do my very best, with your help, to make this Club have another successful year.  WE SERVE!

Yours in Lionism,