LIONS CLUB
by Allan Buck
Rudolph Rippel of Fort Saskatchewan, the Extension representative of Lions International, visited several people in Elk Point early in the fall of 1970, seeking advice as to the merits of forming a Lions Club. From these discussions he felt that Elk Point did want a club. Consequently, he called a meeting in the court house for Thursday, Nov. 12, 1970. Eleven members from Elk Point, as well as Mr. Rippell and Past District Governor Rod D. Nichols of Red Deer, were in attendance. Several other area clubs sent representatives as well.
On a motion by Allan Buck, seconded by Brian Hunter, a Lions Club became a reality. Allan Buck was elected president; Brian Hunter, secretary; Bob LeQuesne, treasurer; and Nick Taylor, Tail Twister. Other positions were filled later.
On Saturday, Jan. 19, 1971, the Lions Club received its charter at an impressive candlelight ceremony in which twenty-one members pledged themselves to serve the community. Barry Golberg was elected first vice-president; Edward Buck, second vice-president, John Williams, third vice-president; Ken Palamarek, Lion Tamer; and Elmer Bjornstad and Clarence Kadyk, Directors. Other charter members were Lawrence Modin, Mike Oryschuk, Ed Pankiw, Terrance Peterson, Terry Roszell, Lawrence Spohn, Paul Stepa, Paul Straty, Ernest Wenzel, Peter Yewchin and John Zayonce.
In 1972 Barry Golberg became new Lions president. He was followed by Edward Buck, 1973; John Williams, 1974; Mike Oryschuk, 1975; and Donald Conrad, 1976.
Since its inception in the fall of 1970, the Lions Club has contributed both money and good will to Elk Point and district. From community auctions, bingos, and a dunk tank at Ahtiyek Day, the Lions have raised almost $40,000 for such things as equipment for children's hockey, arena improvements, funds for Olympic atliletes, old eye glasses, hospital equipment, swimming classes, softball uniforms, overseas travel for students, funds for Girl Guides and Pedal Pushers.
As of December 1976, the Lions Club is still going strong with a membership of thirty-two.
