Lamar Lions Celebrate 95th Anniversary, Inducts New Members

Eric Niemeyer, Michael Jones, Cathy Valenzuela, Jim Farmer, Darren Stroh, Bennie Schumate

The Lamar Lions celebrated their 95^th local birthday and the 100^th anniversary of the Lions International Organization this past Wednesday, September 14^th at the Rodeway Cow Palace Inn.  The luncheon was highlighted by the attendance of Cathy Valenzuela, District Governor 6SE Colorado and the induction membership of three new Lions.

Lions President, Travis Melton, read from a September, 1921 Lamar Daily News clipping, regarding the creation and first meeting of the Lamar Lions group at the Merchant’s Café, and noting the charter approval which was enacted in 1922. At that meeting, the newly formed club was welcomed by the Trinidad branch of the Lions, as well as the Lamar Rotary.

Using the 100^th anniversary of the International Lions as a theme for community projects which focused on service; Valenzuela, listed various suggestions such as gathering 100 pounds of food items for local pantries, small articles of clothing such as socks, or in February or sign 100 valentines which would be distributed at local senior centers or nursing homes.

She remarked on a proposal affecting two membership regions, a situation which reflects a nationwide trend for Lions Clubs. “Because of membership numbers, some clubs are not considered viable,” she explained, adding the suggestion that 6-Central, join with 6-Southeast which would double the number of membership, while at the same time, decreasing costs associated with having two management boards for representation.  Valenzuela said that approach would be considered at the statewide annual meeting set for the spring of 2017.

The Lamar Lions were adding to their membership during the luncheon with the induction of three new members to the club: Eric Niemeyer, Michael Beard and Darren Stroh.

By Russ Baldwin