The Preeceville and District Lions Club was chartered in February, 1960 and has played an important part of the community for 55 years. The Lions Motto is “We Serve.” The Preeceville Lions Club, over the years, has accomplished many ambitious projects for the benefit of Preeceville and area.
“The Lions Club has had many members (40-50 at one time) over the years and were very visible in the community,” said Agnes Murrin, secretary. “The Lions Club is still here and active but unfortunately membership is now at 16. We still accomplish one major fundraising event a year. This is Western Days in July. With this few members we could never accomplish this each year without the support of all the volunteers who come out every year to help at the gate, the track, the kitchen, the bar, the grounds and many other areas. The Lions Club would like to thank everyone who helps out. It is the volunteers who keep this event going.”
With the funds generated by Western Days, the Lions Club has supported numerous organizations throughout the 2015 fiscal year: refueling station for STARS, $1,000; Filling the Gap, $200; Whitehawk Arts Council, $200; guide dogs (Lions charity), $400; Diabetes Association, $400; CNIB and Blind Sports Association, $600; Preeceville dance club, $300; archery club, $300; Preeceville Nursery School, $200; Mushers Rendezvous, $250; and the Preeceville Skating Rink, $50,000 that was utilized to sponsor general skating for the year.
“We also purchase a wreath each year for the Remembrance Day service and purchase an ad in the Preeceville School Yearbook. We purchased two first aid kits for community facilities and contributed volunteers to the annual Mushers’ Rendezvous. The Lions Club also rents out tents and chairs for various functions. Our contact person for these items is Brian Yates,” said Murrin.
The Lions Club welcomes new members. Persons interested in joining the club should know that it meets monthly. Contact Laurie Meberg, president, or any Lions member.
“With more members, we can accomplish more things for the benefit of Preeceville and area,” said Murrin.
The executive for the club includes: Laurie Meberg, president; Darin Newton, past president; Ralph Ager, treasurer; and Agnes Murrin, secretary. Other members include: John Masko, Brian Yates, Phil Murrin, James Bodnar, Ron Neitling, Rob Neitling, Howard Bilan, Bill Lesko, Lawrence Maksymiw, Brian Myhr and Peter Predy who is a life member.
