Columbia Falls Lions Club is now 58 years old

Columbia Falls Lions Club members are continuing traditions established more than half a century ago. Local Lions adhere to International Lions rules that proceeds from community projects are returned to the community.

These have included Lions eyesight program providing eye surgeries and glasses, sponsoring baseball teams and Boy Scout Troop 41, scholarships for graduating Columbia Falls High School seniors, community Easter egg hunt, construction of Don Lawrence Amphitheater in Marantette Park, projects for Pinewood and other city parks, local service club signs at Highway 2 entrances, community Christmas lights, purchasing library books, Big Brothers, Big Sisters.

Contributions from area businesses and organizations help make summer concerts in Marantette Park possible. Many thanks were given to Father John Miller for permitting use of St. Richard's Catholic Church for concerts during what seemed to be weekly Thursday evening downpours. Club members also thank those supporting concerts by their attendance and donations.

Chartering for Columbia Falls Lions Club took place Jan 2, 1953. It was second Lions club in the area, with West Glacier Lions, sponsors. Their president was Con Lundgren, who participated in the ceremony.

Longtime Columbia Falls Lions Club members include Will Loveall, Jack Therrien and Darrell Olson, 43 years; Dave Brotnov, 35 years; Steve Melby, 32 years; and Norman Hagen, 23 years.

Club officers are Mark Johnson, president; Troy Ypma, first vice president; Dave Brotnov, second vice president; Gary Brandow, third vice president; Gail McLean, secretary; Gary Thuesen, treasurer; Jim Swab, Lion tamer; Darryl Young, tail twister; Barbara Proctor, Darryl Young, Ed Smollack, directors, Will Loveall, Gail McLean, membership; Peter Bergen, programs; Ed Smollack, past president; Darryl Young, zone chairman. Lion of the Year award went to Mark Johnson, serving his second year as president.

Dee Brown earned Citizen of the Year honors. She is Chamber of Commerce president, North Valley Hospital board member, retired Canyon School teacher, owns Canyon RV Campground and Cabins with husband, Steve Brown, and served as minority whip of Montana's House of Representatives. Incidentally, Dee Lyngstad (Brown) was one of my second grade Brownies in Columbia Falls.

Guests and new members are invited to attend Lions meetings. They take place first and third Thursdays, 7 a.m., at the Back Room of the Nite Owl Cafe. Board meetings begin at 7 a.m., second Thursdays.

Gladys Shay is a longtime resident and columnist for the Hungry Horse News.