: Camp Echoing Hills, a camp developed for people with special needs, was the host location for the Ohio Lions District 13-G District Convention on April 3 – 4, 2009. A contingent of Lions from Wayne County rode the curvy hills through Millersburg and south to the Warsaw destination to witness the passing of the gavel from District Governor Robert Buxton to Wayne County’s own District Governor Steve Thornton. Director of International Association of Lions Clubs, Wayne Davis, was the keynote speaker on Saturday afternoon.
Activities included a “Governor’s Roast” on Friday night. Saturday morning a memorial service for Lions who passed away during the year was held just prior to the business meeting. Elections for 2009-2010 District Officers followed. The Grand Banquet was accompanied by the introduction of the Head Table/Guests, and speeches by the District Governor and Director Davis who shared a quote from International President Al Brandel “Where there is great love, there is great miracles.” Davis expounded on some of the Lion Club accomplishments he has witnessed in his travels around the world. He spoke of an experience at RAM (Remote Area Medical) in southern W. Va. in July which was actually filmed by the TV show 60 Minutes. Between 75,000 and 100,000 people were waiting in line at daybreak for the chance to get help for eye and dental needs. He shared that the needs are great right here in the US and told of many programs he has seen make a big difference in the lives of many.
As awards and recognitions were passed out, the new Orrville Lions Clubs was happy to show their support for Lion and Past District Governor Todd Imhoff, who was instrumental in getting the Orrville Lions Club off the ground recently. International President Al Brandel sent his commendation to Imhoff for being one of a select few “Everyday Heroes.” The commendation read “Heroic deeds set caring people apart from others. You are hereby commended for distinguishing yourself as an everyday hero by creating miracles through service.”