MEEKER | The Meeker Lions Club hosted a regional Lions Club convention March 28-29 for the organization’s District 6W, which encompasses clubs in Colorado communities west of the Continental Divide.
The convention, which was held at the Fairfield Community Center, brought 60 Lions together to conduct the business of District 6W under the leadership of District Governor David McIlnay.
“Convention is a special time to reconnect with other Lions and hear about the great service local clubs are bringing to communities across our region, and we’re grateful to the Meeker community for hosting and demonstrating such hospitality,” said McIlnay. “I am proud that the Lions’ tradition of service continues to thrive and remain strong in western Colorado.”
District 6W includes 28 clubs with a combined membership of 700 people. At the convention, members heard reports on the Lions Club’s various outreach programs, including Kidsight Program, Colorado Lions Camp, White Cane Program and the Eye Recycle Program. Attendees also received updates on the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute Foundation, Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Bank and the Schuyler Educational Scholarship.
During the convention, Lions Club members enjoyed meals provided from local restaurants by Arturo Rodriguez and his staff – meals that received heavy praise from McIlnay and other visiting Lions.
In appreciation for hosting a successful convention, Meeker Lions Club President Terry Ivie was presented at the end of the event with the “The International President’s Certificate of Appreciation” by Past International Director Tom Matney, member at Harrodsburg Lions Club in Kentucky.
“This is the fourth-highest honor that the Lions Club presents,” stated Matney as he presented the award.
That’s quite an honor, considering that Lions Clubs International is the largest membership-based service organization in the world, with 1.4 million members across the globe.
“More than anything, this recognition is a reflection of the great group of hard-working Lions here in Meeker – it’s amazing what we accomplish when we come together,” said Ivie. “I look forward to continuing to watch the Meeker Lions Club grow in number and continue in service to our community.”
During the convention, Ivie recognized three Meeker Lions specifically for their contributions to the Meeker Lions Club: Mike Hoke received the Melvin Jones Fellow Award; Shannon Lamb received the Secretary Award in Recognition of Outstanding Service; and Samme Purkey received the President’s Appreciation Award.
Following conclusion of the convention, the Meeker Lions Club invited the Meeker community to join them at the Fairfield Center for live music from the River City Band and dancing.
