The Bowmanstown-Parryville Lions Club named its Lion of the Year for 2023 during its annual Christmas Dinner held Monday at the Bowmanstown Volunteer Fire Company Hall.

The dinner program opened with a welcome by President Lion Jean Smith, the Pledge of Allegiance, the singing of “America,” the Lion’s toast, the invocation, and a moment of silence in memory of deceased members.

After a dinner prepared and served by the “kitchen crew” of the Bowmanstown Volunteer Fire Company, Lion Lyle Augustine Jr. introduced the guests who are nonmembers of the club but have helped throughout the year at the concession stands at the Carbon County Lion/Lioness Fair, the West End Fair, the Palmerton Community Festival and during the monthly Block Shoots (October through April).

Club members thanked people for volunteering their time to assist the Lions Club in its fundraising efforts, as profits of these efforts are donated to various local community groups and service organizations.

Augustine then explained that the Lion of the Year Award is in recognition of a member’s “outstanding service, loyalty and devotion to Lionism.”

The 2023 recipient, determined by a vote of the club members, was Cheryl A. Ravert, in recognition of her dedication and service as an active contributor to several club committees, her assistance at the concession stands and block shoots, and her willingness to volunteer untold hours to improving the club and insuring it can provide needed services and funds to organizations and individuals in the club’s service area.

Brenda Snyder received an LCI “Paw Pin” for her willingness to participate and assist on various projects during the year.

President Jean Smith gave brief remarks thanking the members for their dedication to service in the community and to upholding the Lions’ motto “We Serve.”

Everyone in attendance participated in a gift exchange game based on a special version of “T’was the Night Before Christmas.” Attendees were then treated to entertainment provided by the duo “It Takes Two.”

The club is always accepting new members, and anyone interested in becoming a Lion may contact Loraine Neal at 610-597-1875. You do not have to be a resident of Bowmanstown or Parryville to join.