The club received their original charter on August 8, 1941. The celebration was combined with a Christmas party,

New Member Induction, and Awards Banquet. Members of the Mayville Lions Club, including Zone Chairperson Lion Ann Aiken, were invited guests and welcomed by President Judy Cole.

In a candlelit ceremony that recalled the origins of Lions Clubs and the challenge Helen Keller gave to Lions in 1925 asking Lions to “be her knights of the blind”, Lion Adam Willis was inducted into membership. L

ion Adam then shared how a Lions Club had helped him in his youth and that his gratitude from that experience had inspired his desire to join Lions.

President Lion Judy Cole reads the Induction Ceremony as new member Adam Willis and sponsor Lion Greg Cole listen.

Lion Mike Herlong was presented with the Lion of the Year award.

This award is given for outstanding service to the club to someone who exemplifies service to others. Lion Mike has been a driving force in connecting the Dunkirk Fredonia Lions Club with the local sight impaired community.

This has led to the club facilitating social activities like picnics, attending local concerts, and the Blind Bowling event.

Lion Greg Cole was presented with a prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship. Named for Lions Club founder, Melvin Jones, this highest of Lions Awards recognizes individuals who embody humanitarian ideas and demonstrate exemplary service to their club and community.

Lion Greg was recognized for his 31 years of membership in the club, his continuing 38-year teaching career to high school and college students, his dedication to all Dunkirk Fredonia Lions Club projects, his many years of public service, and his personal commitment to helping underserved individuals.

President Lion Judy Cole presents the Melvin Jones Fellowship to Lion Greg Cole.

The Dunkirk Fredonia Lions Club meets on the second Monday of each month and are always looking for new members who wish to serve the local community.

The Club can be reached on Facebook or by calling 716-672-8509.