“Small, but powerful,” are the words used to describe Fairfield Lions Club, by last week’s guest speaker, International Director Sam Lindsey.
Lindsey, a former Texas District 2-X3 Governor, was elected to serve a two-year term as International Director during the 99th International Convention held in Fukuoka, Japan last month.
Director Lindsey joined the Fairfield group during their regular meeting at Sam’s Original Restaurant to induct new members and install this year’s officers. “There is nothing more exciting than inducting new members,” he said.
His excitement was infectious, as Lindsey spoke of the Lions Club Centennial Year.
The world’s largest service club, the Lions Club is in 201 countries – more than are members of the United Nations.
The club’s motto is simple, “We serve.”
Although they serve their communities in many ways, Lions are known for their service to the blind, which came about following a speech from Helen Keller who challenged them in 1925.
Lions Club programs include Leader Dogs for the Blind, Eye Banks, Eyeglass Recycling, and in Texas, the Texas Lions Camp.
Director Lindsey served as the 44th President of the Texas Lions Camp.
Texas Lions Camp began in 1949 as a summer camp for children with polio (which can cause blindness). It has expanded over the years to include children with all manner and types of physical disabilities, diabetes and cancer.
These children attend a one-week camp, free of charge, experiencing all the fun of a typical summer camp, along with children with similar challenges. Since its inception, Texas Lions Camp has served more than 70,000 children.
Joining the Fairfield Lions Club for the first time were Marla Ethridge (sponsored by her husband, Charles) and Megan Hempel (sponsored by Ann Gatlin).
Installed as officers were Lion Tamer – Cathy Ethridge; Tail Twister – Gilbert Gatlin; Treasurer – Kevin Moller; Secretary – Megan Hempel; 3rd Vice President – Brian Ingram; 2nd Vice President – Ann Gatlin; 1st Vice President – Charles Ethridge; and President – Olaf von Sehrwald.
On the Board of Directors, in addition to officers, are members Charles Ethridge, Rita Langford, Jerianne Terry and Emilee Terry.
Membership Committee includes Cathy Ethridge, Brian Ingram and Rita Langford; led by Committee Chair, Gilbert Gatlin.
Additionally, the Fairfield Lions Club recognized several community members for their volunteerism during the year, including Mark Ornelas, Brenda Schultz and Karen Leidy. “We hope you will consider becoming a Lion,” encouraged President von Sehrwald.
Gilbert Gatlin was presented a Presidential Certificate by Director Lindsey, for his distinguished achievement and outstanding service.
After enduring some good natured ribbing, Brian Ingram was awarded Lion of the Year for his invaluable service in keeping the Lions Club fundraiser booth operating properly. “I wasn’t expecting this,” he replied with a smile.
Fairfield Lions Club meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, beginning at 7:00 p.m., at Sam’s Restaurant.
Facebook users are invited to like their page. Additional information may be found online at www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/fairfieldtx
Interested in becoming a member? Ask a Lion!
Taking the oath as a new member, Marla Ethridge is sponsored by her husband, Charles, as International Director Sam Lindsey welcomes her to the Lions Club.
Lion of the Year is Brian Ingram (right), presented a plaque for his service by Fairfield Lions Club President Olaf von Sehrwald.
