From the left, Westport Lions Jim McGlade and Dorothy Maynard presented a cheque to George and Kevin Tackaberry for allowing the Westport Lions to use their building at 5229 Salem Road free of charge for the club’s Reuse and Recycle Centre. Knowing that the Tackaberry family would not personally accept a donation, the Westport Lions decided to donate to the Athens club as gesture of gratitude.
Westport Lions Roar
By Lion Bob Reddick
At our last general meeting on November 4, President Dorothy Maynard announced that the Seniors Christmas Cakes will be distributed on December 14 starting at 10:00 a.m. Due to the increasing number of seniors in our area, the club agreed to expand the age eligibility for receiving a cake to 70 years and older. Of course, if you have received a cake in the past, you will continue to receive one even if you are under 70.
If you are 70 or over and wish to receive a Christmas cake, please contact the Westport Lions Club at westportontariolions@gmail.com or call Dorothy at 613-273-2079 and leave a message. Please include your telephone number and your civic address.
Before the meeting started, Westport Lions Club distributed funding cheques to all the organizations in attendance. Last year was the first time the club invited the recipients to come to the clubhouse to receive their cheques and give a brief description about their organization and the intended use of the donation.
Some recipients were amazed at the variety of organizations that received funding and appreciated the chance to learn about them. Many were surprised to discover the number of people and groups serving our community. One recipient remarked, “There is no reason for anyone to be bored in our community with the number of opportunities to join and help out.” Volunteering is a win for both the individual and the community.
Lion Craig Jackson and Jan Gagnon were applauded for their hard work and successful efforts in organizing the 2024 Westport Lions Santa Claus Parade. Almost every Lion was involved in the parade, and the hard work was rewarded tenfold by the sight of smiling children’s faces. Once again, the Westport Lions extend their gratitude to our sponsors, participants, and the community for their support.
Other agenda items included organizing an outing to see the Kingston Frontenacs and maintenance chores in preparation for winter.
Lion Jim McGlade presented a proposal to collaborate with the Athens Lions Club to organize an ice fishing derby for children on Westport Sand Lake in February. Jim explained that this would be a fantastic opportunity for young people to have outdoor fun and learn more about fishing in a natural environment. Members discussed various issues such as liability, ice conditions, safety, climate change, and financial details. A member survey showed support for this event, and Jim will work out the details with his counterpart in Athens.
Westport Lions Club 