I've been a Lions Club member for 10 years now (recognized last night). It's a damn worthy organization. What we do for individuals, the local community, and the world is really amazing. It fills one with pride (no pun intended).

Our motto is "We Serve". I suppose we're famous for our eye sight programs, but it's so much more. Each community has its own pet projects. Our list is quite long, including four $1000 college scholarships awarded to worthy kids. I wish we had a web site to detail all the things we do.

In order to give away our money, we have to have a source of income. We have several money making projects--our main one being selling soft serve ice cream throughout the summer at festivals and events all over a 50 mile radius. We volunteer our time nearly every weekend. Fortunately, being 50 member strong, the work load is spread out. Tomorrow evening is my second time out.

Our club also raises money with chili suppers, a 10 grand raffle (we take half), an auction, and a golf outing (this weekend). We have a $45,000 budget, so that's a lot of money given out. It takes time and effort, but every penny earned and spent is well worth it.

Do you have a Lions Club in your area? Consider joining.