Lynchburg Lions Club celebrates 60th anniversary

Courtesy of Jim Faust

The Lynchburg Lions Club recently celebrated its 60th anniversary.

The event was held at the Lynchburg Area Joint Fire and Ambulance District's Community Room. Numerous local and visiting Lions members, cabinet officials and special guests enjoyed a buffet dinner and program.

The keynote speaker for the evening was Lion Jeff Brantner from Columbus. He serves as the executive secretary for the Ohio Lions Foundation, and he has served in many official capacities for Lions all over the state. Brantner presented a very interesting summary of the history of the Foundation. He was presented a picture of the famous Lynchburg Covered Bridge as a gift.

At the beginning of the evening, the local Scout troop presented the colors and each member of the Lynchburg Club was recognized. Everyone received a copy of the original club meeting minutes that were written in December 1952. The names of all charter members were also listed.

One of the special guests was former Lion Ralph Osborn, who lives near Pricetown. Osborn was a charter member of the Lynchburg Club, and he served as club president many years ago. He was accompanied by his daughter, Gerri Pierson, and her husband, Donny. Osborn shared some very interesting stories about the Lynchburg Lions Club.

Special recognition was also given to several people who had provided service to the club over the years. Lion Charles Newland from the Leesburg Club has been a strong supporter of all the local clubs and Lions in the district.

Lions Jim Stroop, Jim Faust, Larry Cole and Mary Cole were recognized for being Melvin Jones Fellows. Deceased Lions Bob McMullen and Charles Green had also received this same high honor. Local Scout David Swallen was honored for constructing the new flagpole area at the Lions property on Sharpsville Road. He did the project as a part of the regiments for achieving the Eagle Scout award. Lion Myrta Catherine Rhonemus was recognized for her years of service. She had passed away earlier this year.

Hillsboro Lions President Jeannie Snapp-Smith made a special presentation on behalf of the Hillsboro Lions Club. The Hillsboro Club was the original sponsor of the Lynchburg Lions Club. The Hillsboro club was the original sponsor of the Lynchburg Lions Club.

District Governor Lion Rick Tipple from Gallipolis and Vice Governor Lion Sherry Bingamon of Mount Orab congratulated the Lynchburg club for its 60 years of service to the community.

The Lynchburg Lions Club is always looking for good members who are interested in serving the community and assisting with the many Lions projects. Anyone interested may contact Lions President Jim Stroop at (937) 288-2215 or any other Lions member for more information.

Following the distribution of numerous door prizes, the meeting was adjourned.