By Dixon Bledsoe
The Silverton chapter of Lions Club recently celebrated 70 years of service in the community, and there is no end in sight.
Otto Stadeli, chapter president for the fourth time, said the 70th anniversary party was a smash hit. More than 80 people attended the Oct. 2 event at United Methodist Church’s Fellowship Hall.
Along with dinner and entertainment by the Silvertones, the highlight of the evening was an auction, Stadeli said. “We raised a whopping $780. All the proceeds go to the people we help.”
Keynote speaker was Ed Geer, of Eugene, a past director at National Headquarters.
Long-standing Lion members Hal Werner, Russ Gilmore and Jerry Roberts were recognized for their service.
The local chapter puts on the breakfast at Coolidge-McClaine Park during Homer Davenport Days as one of its major fundraisers (beginning 64 years ago as the Harvest Breakfast), and built the park’s kitchen and pole building, then donated the facility to the city of Silverton.
Lions are active in the community throughout the year, including seeking donations during White Cane Day, picking up trash from the stretch of highway between Silverton and Mt. Angel, selling pork sandwiches at Oktoberfest, collecting newspapers and magazines for recycling, selling See’s Candy in November and December and helping run free Fish Day.
Another charitable service, headed by Lions Tom and Marsha Worthen, is dedicated to helping senior citizens with projects around the house, including yard work, minor repairs and cleanup. Lions also sponsor Boy Scout Troop 245, and in return the Scouts help out with Lion projects.
Serving with President Otto Stadeli are vice president Beris Brickles, secretary Russ Gilmore and treasurer Chuck Pattee.
