the
Lion
Volume XVI, No. 3 Published by and for the Lions of New Jersey Multiple District 16
The delegation from New Jersey prepares to march in the International convention parade in Minneapolis.
O’Neill, Lucas, Four More Named to
Irish-American Baseball Hall of Fame
Yankee legend Paul O’Neill and
broadcaster Ed Lucas, who has
covered the Yankees for over 40
years and is the only person to be
married at home plate at Yankee
Stadium, were among the newest
members to be inducted into the
Irish American Baseball Hall of
Fame in July. Long time Brooklyn
Inside
The New Jersey Lion
South Plainfield Awards Scholarships,
Honors Volunteers.............................2
Warren Foundation Makes
Annual Scholarship Awards............3
Vinnie Pascale Honored for 70 Years
Ed Lucas
of Service.......................................4
Congratulations to Webmaster Hal Wasserman and Winslow Township Lions Club–This photo was taken
on Thursday of the convention when all awards were being announced via the big screens throughout the
convention hall. Over 25,000 Lions were in attendance. Colin Powell and The Beach Boys were the highlights.
New Jersey
and LA Dodgers owner Walter
O’Malley and Dodgers legends
Steve Garvey and Vin Scully, as
well as umpire Jim Joyce, were the
other hon­orees this year. The Irish
American Base­ball Hall of Fame
is housed at Foley’s NY Pub &
Restaurant in Manhattan and, with
(Continued on page 2)
Chester Lends Support to
Community Hope...........................5
Camp Marcella Holds Pig Roast.....5
International Convention,
a Pictorial....................................6,7
Briefs.......................................8,9
Middleton Sponsors Auto
for Meet for the Blind....................10
Eye Bank Presents
2009 Visionary Awards................12
Council Chairperson
Moore: Looking Ahead
It will be my honor and plea-
sure to serve as MD16 New
Jersey’s Council chairperson
for 2009-2010 and to work with
an outstanding group of DGs,
VDGs, PDGs, and all the Lions
of MD16. New Jersey has a
long and distinguished (note-
worthy) history of dedication to
Lionism, to service and to our
communities. I follow in great
footsteps. Lion leadership in NJ
is second to none.
Our Lions clubs successes
are many:
• Overwhelming and con-
tinued support of LCIF;
• National recognized eye
banks;
• Distinguished service on
the international level;
Governors Albert Olizi-C, Dennis Brubaker-A, James Dougherty-D and
Philip Stern E. at the International Convention. The photo was taken at
the celebration banquet held the last night of DGE Training.
Camp Marcella to Honor MD-16
Lions and Robert “Bob” Moore
On Sunday, October 25, Camp
Marcella-New Jersey Camp for
Blind Children, Inc. will honor all
Lions of Multiple District 16 and
Past International Director Robert
“Bob” Moore at their annual har-
vest luncheon.
All Lions of Multiple District
16 will “collectively” be honored as
this year’s recipients of the Walter
Margetts Award, which is presented
to a company, organization, or
individual(s) for their outstanding
support of Camp Marcella. The
Lions of New Jersey have provided
continued support to Camp Mar-
cella for the past 60+ years through
both monetary donations as well as
their time and skills in helping to
make Camp Marcella the premier
facility it is today. The award will
be presented to State Advisor Mel
Bray and will be forwarded on for
placement in the State Office.
This year’s Nathan Rogoff
Make a Difference
in someone’s life;
ask a friend to
become a Lion.
FALL 2009
Council Chairperson
Elspeth Moore
• Pioneers in vision screen-
ings for preschool and kinder-
garten children;
(Continued on page 5)
Award will be presented to Past
International Director Robert
“Bob” Moore in recognition of
his outstanding service to Camp
Marcella. The Rogoff Award is pre-
sented annually to a member of the
board of trustees or advisory board
in recognition of his/her continued
dedication and support of Camp
Marcella. PID Moore has been
actively involved in camp activity
for over 20 years, participating in
hands-on activity in maintaining his
club-sponsored cabin, as a member
of the advisory board and then the
board of trustees, and is currently
serving as chairman of the board.
The awards will be presented
at the annual harvest luncheon on
Sunday, October 25 at the Regency
House Hotel/Best Western, 140
Route 23 North, Pompton Plains,
N.J. Please contact PDG Paula M.
Tarantino, (201) 709-4944 for addi-
tional information and reservations.
•6• • To subscribe to the South Plainfield Observer call 908-668-0010 • August 14, 2009

  •2• new jersey lion FALL 2009    

Middletown Lions Support

The Kitchen at Saint Mark’s
Every third Thursday of hot dogs, baked beans, corn-on-
the month, members of the the-cob, salad, brownies, and
Middletown Township Lions cupcakes for the crowd of 50.
Club can be found cheerfully They were assisted by members
serving up food and smiles to of the Middletown Reformed
those in need at The Kitchen Church Youth Group and the
at Saint Mark’s Church, Keans- four children of Cervino’s Res-
burg. Called “Lion Tamer Third taurant owner Bill Neely, who
Thursday,” the initiative is part donated and prepared the menu
of the organization’s mission to items. The youth volunteers
provide services where they are received community service
needed the most, according to credits for their participation.
President Beverly Bova Scara- Neely, who has recently started
Youth volunteers
Youth volunteers recognized
recognizedareareKristen
KristenDeSclafani, Nikole
DeSclafani, DeSclafani,
Nikole Tracey
DeSclafani, Cihanowyz,
Tracey Cassie
Cihanowyz, Capparelli,
Cassie Capparelli, no. “This is the grassroots–“the a catering facility under the
Ashley Capparelli,
Ashley Capparelli,Jonathan
JonathanGrennier,
Grennier,Joseph Grennier
Joseph andand
Grennier SeanSean
Flanagan. Not pictured
Flanaga,Not are Austin
pictured Jenkin,
are Austin Jenkin, core of what being a Lion is all Cervino’s name at the Holiday
Dakota Uhl,
Dakota Uhl, Nate
Nate Eliason,
Eliason, Albert
AlbertVill
Villand
andDoug
DougPorzio.
Porzio. about,” noted Bova Scarano. Inn, Hazlet, commented, “I am

SouthClub
Lions Plainfield
Awards Awards $8,000
$8,000 in in
Scholarships
And Honors Youth
Scholarships Volunteers
and Honors Volunteers
At the South Plainfield Lions
Club June meeting members
awarded $8,000 in scholarships.
They also recognized several youths
who volunteered during the past
year. The meeting was held at
Paulo’s Restaurant where guests en-
joyed dinner before the awards pre-
sentation.
Lions Club President Michael
Zushma presented $1,500 scholar-
ships to Michael Bell, who will be
studying nuclear medicine at Univer-
sity College; Joseph Grennier, who
will attend Middlesex County Col-
lege; Ashley Capparelli, who will at-
tend Monmouth University; and Alex
Cihanowyz, who will attend Stevens
Institute.
The annual Paul Pompa $2,000
Scholarship was awarded to Rocco
Petriello for the second year in a
row. Rocco is in his second year
of studies at the Culinary Institute
of America. Paul Pompa was an
active member of the South Plain-
field Lions Club for many years.
After his death, Pompa’s family
created a scholarship in his name
which is presented each year
through the Lions club.
Youth volunteers were also rec-
ognized by the Lions club. The
volunteers helped out at the an-
nual Lions Palm Sunday Gourmet
Breakfast and the Keystone lun-
cheon. Each received a certificate
of appreciation. Youth volunteers
were included Kristen DeSclafani,
Nikole DeSclafani, Tracey Ci-
hanowyz, Cassie Capparelli, Ash-
ley Capparelli, Jonathan Grennier,
Thursday, July 16 was no more than happy to support
exception as the Lions gathered the community in whatever
to prepare a “summer picnic” of way I can.”
Joseph Grennier, Sean Flanagan,
Austin Jenkin, Dakota Uhl, Nate
Eliason, Albert Vill and Doug
Porzio.
The Lions club motto, “We
Serve,” best describes the South
Plainfield Lions Club. Local mem-
bers raise money and serve the com-
munity by assisting residents in
need, local eye banks, St. Joseph’s
School for the Blind, Camp
Marcella (camp for the visually
challenged), Seeing Eye and other
projects.
The Lions hold two major fund-
raising events each year, the annual Bill Neely, owner of Cervino’s Restaurant, is thanked by Lions
Palm Sunday gourmet breakfast Club Chairman Al Siano for his donation. Chairman Al couldn’t
resist showing his characteristic sense of humor by wearing a
and a sandwich and beer stand after
“motivational” apron.
the annual Labor Day parade.
Irish-American Baseball Hall of Fame
(Continued from page 1) scorer and columnist Red Foley, for and entertainers. In addition to
a blessing from Coopers­t own, whom the bar is named. giving each inductee a copy of his

the recognizes current and former

players, managers, executives,
new jersey journalists, and entertainers of Irish
Shaun Clancy, an amateur base-
ball historian, created the hall after
learning about the rich heritage of
plaque, Foley’s will make a dona-
tion to Umps Care and Ed Randall’s
“Bat For The Cure” in their names.

Lion
descent. O’Neill, dubbed “The Irish Americans in the sport, dating The ceremony was held on July 7
Warrior” by George Stein­brenner, from its infancy–a legacy that has at Foleys.
was one of the most popu­lar Yankees been overshadowed in recent years Lion Ed has had a busy month;
during the dynasty years of the late by other ethnicities. He decided to his foundation at Seaton Hall is the
1990s. A five-time all star, O’Neill celebrate his roots and those who recipient of funds from the Yankees
The New Jersey Lion was voted into the Irish American helped make the game great by cre- Strikeouts for Scholarships. WCBS
Published by and for the Lions of New Jersey Baseball Hall of Fame by the fans, ating a shrine to Irish Americans in 880 AM donates $10 to Seaton Hall’s
via an Internet poll. He won the baseball in 2008. Inductees include Ed Lucas Foundation every time a
News Editor
Richard W. Zimmermann, PDG honor over other notable Irish- players, managers, team executives, Yankee pitcher strikes out an op-
127 Broadway, Laurel Springs, N.J. 08021 American nominees like Nolan umpires, journalists, broadcasters, posing batter.
Phone: 856-783-8040 Ryan. O’Neill currently works as a
E-mail: rwzimmermann@comcast.net Yankee broadcaster.
District Reporters
Ed Lucas is an inspiration to many.
District 16 A District 16 D Blinded in a childhood accident, he
Victor Graziano, PDG Eddie Hui,1221 Inwood Terrace, overcame his obstacles to forge a
266 DeSoto Place, Fairview, Fort Lee, N.J. 07024 career as a sportswriter and broad-
N.J. 07022 201-886-0506
ehui1221@aol.com caster. He has made many close
Phone: 201-945-2681
vgraziano@co.bergen.nj.us
friends in baseball, and over the
District 16 E years has raised millions for charity
District 16B Ralph DeVito, 20 Hillside with the help of Yankees such as Phil
James Hynes Rizzuto, Gene Michael, and Yogi
West Windsor Lions Club Ave, Flanders, N
Phone: 973-668-5684 Berra. He is also the spokesperson
9 Berkshire Drive
Princeton Jct., NJ 08550 pdglion@optonline.net for “Strikeouts for Scholarships,” a
H: 609 275-0363 partnership with WCBS Radio and
Fax: 609-275-5816 Seton Hall University, generating
E: jamesahynes@aol.com donations for every Yankee strike-
FINANCE AND OPERATIONS out, benefitting disabled students at
John Allen, PDG Seton Hall.
11 Moss Lane, Jackson, NJ 008527 The “Starting Nine” inductees of
Phone: 732-928-5863 the Irish American Baseball Hall of
Lawrence Massaro, PDG Fame in 2008 were: the late Mets
806 Kenneth Ave, S. Plainfield, N.J. 08742 and Phillies reliever Tug McGraw,
Phone: (B) 908-753-3850 (H) 753-1052 Yankee announcer John Flaherty,
The NJ Lion is published 4 times a year under the auspices of New Jersey sportswriter Jeff Horrigan, NY Mets
Lions Multiple District 16 groundskeeper Pete Flynn, retired
Postmaster: Send address changes to: NJ Lions MD 16 sluggers Mark McGwire and Sean
54 Broad St., Suite 316, Red Bank, N.J. 07701 “The Mayor” Casey, Kevin Cost-
1-800-554-6675 ner, star of Field of Dreams and Bull Wyckoff President Bill Luyke, Scott Lansey, and the Wyckoff Club lion
This is the public toll free number for the NJ Lions. You may use it in your publicity. mascot. The Club purchased a Lion outfit for use in promotions and
Note: This number is not for business calls from the Lions to the State Office. Durham, legendary owner/manager
parades. The new Lion made his debut at the Wyckoff Carnival.
Connie Mack, and longtime official
  FALL 2009 new jersey lion • 3 •    

(Left to right) Lions Al Tedesco, Secretary Toni O’Neill, Treasurer Will Binder, Greg Springstun, President Pam
Hunterdon Hills Lions Club President Pam Springstun, Lion Greg
Springstun, PDG Steve Domovich, community service volunteer Gene Bodyl, community service volunteer Rajdeep
Springstun, PDG Steve Domovich, and Lion Al Tedesco.
Lahiri, Lions George Milligan, Bob Housedorf, Diane Coffman (parade chairman), and PDG Alan Brewer.

Hunterdon Hills: We Serve Many Faces, One Nation

The Hunterdon Hills Lions
Club again participated in the
Lebanon Boro July 4th Parade, a
well-attended annual event which
services not only Hunterdon but
also adjacent counties.
The Lions’ float incorporated
the parade’s theme. “Many Faces,
One Nation,” with the Lions
motto, and was entitled: “WE
SERVE Many Faces, Many Na-
tions.” In addition to traditional
patriotic decor, the float bore a
representative diversity of faces
that comprise our great nation.
Parade participants enjoyed
some patriotic music, while
also receiving ample applause
along much of the route, as the
audience clearly recognized the
many contributions Lions make
to the community. Parade at-
tendees were also reminded of
both the local eyeglass recycling
collection sites, as well as the state
program.
Several high school students
performed community service by
bearing the club banner.

Middletown Lions Reach

Out for New Members

Cherry Hill Lions Club and

The Middletown Lions
found the time and place to
reach out to the community
to attract new members. With
the advent of the new Market
Fair located at the Middletown
train station lot, the Lions rec-
ognized the potential to meet
and greet the public.
Spearheaded by Lion Lori
Ann Oliwa, the Lions set up
a table and tent. Information
was given to prospective mem-
bers and great public relations
were obtained. The table filled
The McIntyre Group Award Scholarships
with Lions all day was adjacent The Cherry Hill Lions Club and The McIntyre Group (Cherry Hill) recently awarded $1,000 scholarships
to Camp Happiness’s table to four graduating high school seniors. Pictured are Dr. Thomas Vermes, scholarship chair, Cherry Hill
where Lion Doug Scott spoke Lions; Stephen J. Ripa, president, Cherry Hill Lions; Kelly Stout, Cherry Hill West; Anthony J. McIntyre,
to people within the commu- president, The McIntyre Group; Matthew Remer, Cherry Hill West; Daniel Wrinn, Cherry Hill East; and
nity and sold Entertainment Frank Cornely, Camden Catholic. The annual scholarships are awarded to students who have overcome a
disability in order to have a successful high school experience and also plan to continue their studies.
books for next year.
A few things were learned
by today’s event and Lore
promises more innovative
ideas for future days at the
Market Fair.

Warren Foundation Makes

Annual Scholarship Awards
On Wednesday, June 10, the
Warren Lions Foundation made
its annual scholarship awards.
The 2009 Scholarship Recipi-
ents were Alison Blitzer, who will
attend the University of Michi-
gan, and Seth Olsen, who will
attend the University of Chicago.
Additionally, the Maxon P. Strubb
Community Service Scholar-
ship was awarded to ex-Marine
Thomas Hilbert, the Barrett R.
Davies Engineering Scholarship
to Evan Dill and the Angelo L.
Tomaso Scholarship to Nicholas
Flynn.
The Foundation Committee
awarded $6,000 in scholarships
among a large number of quali-
fied contenders. The student’s
academic achievement and com-
munity service were key consid-
erations in making the awards.
The Lions Club and Founda-
tion support numerous world-
wide and local charities. On
Wednesday through Sunday, June
17-21, they heeld their annual
EXPO at the Warren Township
Municipal Grounds. Proceeds
from the event goes to support
the Food Bank Network, the
From the left, Vinnie Oliva, Warren Lions president; students Thomas Hilbert and Seth Olsen, Scholarship
Interfaith Hospitality Network,
Chairman Ralph Ekberg, student Eric Dill, Ruth and Valerie Davies, donors of the Davies Scholarship, and
and other charities. Scholarship Committeeman John Truglio.
  •4• new jersey lion FALL 2009    

Christle Celina Espina, recipient of the Freehold Township Lions
Club scholarship award.
West Long Branch Lions Club members participated in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. The event
was held at Monmouth University in West Long Branch and was a wonderful example of Lions working together
with their local communities. Members camped out overnight and walked laps around the track in honor of
loved ones and friends who have battled or lost their battle with cancer, to raise money for cancer research. The
club came in third place overall for their fund raising. Back Row: Mike Ruane, Tom DeBruin (club president),
Christine Guido, Barbara Ruane, Diane Welch, Liz Foggia, Eric Jeandron, and Howard Welch. Front Row: Paul
Dement, Jim Ruane, and Felix Foggia.

Marie Katzenbach School Eye Bank Bestows Crystal Visionary Award

for the Deaf Students At the Lions Eye Bank of Dela-
ware Valley 52nd annual meeting
Awarded Scholarships on June 13, PDG Fred Frisch
(NJ-16-C) received the Crystal
Visionary Award. As the highest
honor given by the Eye Bank, the
award recognizes an individual
whose dedication to the Eye Bank
has been demonstrated through
years of outstanding service. PDG
Frisch has been a trustee of the
eye bank since 1995. In 2003 he
began a one-year term as chair-
man and CEO. In addition to
serving as a member or chair of
various committees, PDG Frisch
continues to lead a successful
annual charity golf fund raiser
which has raised monies to help,
in conjunction with ophthal-
mologists, those unable to afford
a cornea transplant. Lions Eye
Bank of Delaware looks ahead
after their 52nd annual meeting. Mary Devin O’Brien, then C.E.O. of the Lions Eye Bank of Delaware
Demetreos Syndetos, Jr. (left), recipient of Men’s Club of Four Seasons Valley, presents Fred Frisch, PDG 16 C with the 2009 Crystal Visionary
at South Knolls Scholarship Award. Christopher Raymond Aurelio
The Board of Trustees seated
Award in recognition of his dedication and service to the Lions Eye Bank
(right), recipient of Freehold Township Lions Club Scholarship Lion Robert Eisner as chairman/
of Delaware Valley.
Award. John Allen (center) presents the awards on behalf of the CEO for the 2009-2010 Fiscal
Freehold Twp. Lions and the Men’s Club of South Knolls. Year. Chairman Bob is from Valley operation is based on 5% of with the Crystal Visionary Award
Chalfont Lions Club in 14-A. our income and the other 1% is for his outstanding service to

WeLions
Serve
The Eye Bank concluded the used for fund raising. During the the Lions Eye Bank of Delaware

NJ
year in very good economic shape
despite the down economy. Our
regular fund raising projects
have enabled us to keep ahead
of increasing expenses and the
costs of increasing governmental
regulations. Our endowment
fund is growing and many clubs
have honored outstanding Lions
with Gene Polgar Fellowships.
We work with nearly 100 cornea
surgeons throughout the tri-state
area. Together we continue to
make a major difference in peoples
lives. Our medical advisory board
keeps us up to date on the very
latest in procedures as they are
developed. Many members of the
medical advisory board are on the
cutting edge of corneal research.
We can say with confidence we
help people change their lives, to
improve their standard of living
and to become more productive
as family members and members
of their communities. We have
developed an impressive list of
over 30,000 recipients of corneas
since we founded the eye bank
52 years ago.
Lions District 16C Governor Fred Niji (left) presents the During the past year, we have
International Lions “Leadership Medal” to Avalon Lion Sam been able to turn 94% of our rev-
Beddia in recognition of his many years of service to the Lions and enue into program services. The
the community at large. full Lions Eye Bank of Delaware
calendar year that ended in De-
cember 2008, 891 corneas were
prepared for surgery. Of these,
60 were used in Delaware, 520 in
Pennsylvania, 298 in New Jersey,
eight in Africa and the rest world-
wide. Another 383 were used for
education, training, and research.
Of course, some of the corneas
are not suitable for transplant,
but they are productively used for
research and training.
Congratulations are in order to
Fred Frisch, who was presented
Vinnie Pascale Honored
for 70 Years of Service
Wood-Ridge Lion and Charter
Member Vinnie Pascale recently
received a special recognition from
Lions Clubs International for his
long service.
Lions International President Al
Brandel in his letter of recognition
stated, “On behalf of The Interna-
tional Association of Lions Clubs
and the nearly 1.4 million men and
women, worldwide, who volunteer
their time to humanitarian causes,
it is a pleasure to congratulate you
on attaining your 70 Year Charter
Monarch Milestone Chevron
Valley. Fred ran the 15th An-
nual “Gift of Sight” Charity Golf
Classic and Dinner Buffet on
August 21.
Would your club like to see
what we do? You can have a
speaker at your meeting, arrange
a meeting at the eye bank, or bring
your group in for a tour. Just con-
tact the office at (800) 743-6667.
Copies of the annual meeting
report and the “Gift of Sight”
booklet are available from our of-
fice or through your local trustee.
Award. Your contributions are ap-
preciated by your Lions Club, the
people you serve and the global
community. Congratulations on
your achievement.” Accompanying
the letter was a gold chevron to at-
tach to Vinnie’s Lion lapel pin.
His fellow Lions thank Vinnie
for his part in establishing the
Wood-Ridge Lions Club in 1939
and congratulate him for his 70
years of devotion and service to this
organization and the many blind
charities and community projects
that it supports.
  FALL 2009 new jersey lion • 5 •    

Excel Students Enjoy Bridgeton Summer Tradition

A busload of Lions can make
some noise. Add in a group of
middle school students and the
sound is pure summer fun.
The Bridgeton Lions Club held
its 14th annual baseball trip on
June 1, bringing a bus filled with
members and their special guests,
31 students and teachers from
the Bridgeton Public School’s
ExCEL Program, to Campbell’s
Field to watch the Camden Riv-
ersharks play host to the Newark
Bears.
The Bridgeton Lions Club’s
summer bus trips to area minor
league parks during the past 14
years have been both fundraisers
for the club as well as an oppor-
tunity to treat area youth to a fun
night out. The Bridgeton Club
has taken the ExCEL students
and teachers for the past two years
with great results.
ExCEL is a pilot program
open to all district students in
sixth, seventh and eighth grades,
and through a lottery system,
approximately 50 students are
selected annually for entry into
the program in grade six. ExCEL
features an intense, small-group
learning community in an ex-
tended day, week, and school year
format. ExCEL students enjoy
the more rigorous schedule and
expectations, and their attendance
and test scores are the district’s
highest.
The Riversharks have been
the Bridgeton Lions Club trip
destination for the past five years.
The Campbell’s Field setting and
the joy experienced by the ExCEL
students and club members have
made it a summer tradition, one
filled with smiles and sounds of
summer fun. Bridgeton School System ExCEL students who joined Lions for a Camden Riversharks ball game.

Chester Lends Support to Community Hope

Community Hope, one of the
largest providers of residential
programs for young adults, home-
less veterans and individuals with
mental illness in New Jersey, is the
recipient of a donation from the
Chester Lions Club.
A brighter future is offered to
those suffering from mental illness
and substance abuse by providing
housing and services in a dignified,
respectful environment. Wellness
and recovery is emphasized in
programs that focus on helping
individuals set goals and strive to
meet them.
The Chester Lions Club, mind-
The Berlin Lions Club was honored as the Best Community Service Club ful of helping individuals, has
of the Year at the July 4 Independence Day Celebration by the mayors donated $3,500 to Community
of Berlin Borough and Berlin Township through the Inter-Community Hope supporting the dedicated
Celebration Association. The Berlin club was awarded a plaque and $200. professionally trained staff that The Chester Lions Club pro- and food banks. Funds have been
Left to right are Lions Beth Tolotta and Lois Kelly, Berlin Borough Mayor vides funds for local and national donated to hospitals, initiatives
provides services to young adults,
John Armano, and Host Tom DiGangi.
military veterans and those requir- and international efforts, including aiding military personnel and the
ing continuous support. fire departments, first aid squads victims of international tragedies.

Council Chairperson Moore: Looking Ahead

State Advisor Mel Bray, PDG Nelson Goncalves, Camp Marcella
Chairman of the Board-PID Bob Moore, PCC Doug Schembs, Christie
Frank (wife of PDG Bob Frank), PDG Dr. Edward Meyer and his
wife, Carol.
Camp Marcella Holds
First Annual Pig Roast
On Sunday, May 31, 180 Li-
ons, friends, former, and fu-
ture campers and their fam-
ilies, and former counselors
gathered to attend Camp Mar-
cella’s first annual pig roast.
Co-hosted by PDGS John
Allen and Paula Tarantino, along
with the help of the officers,
trustees, advisory board members
and volunteers, guests dined
on roast pig (of course), as well
as a menu including hot dogs,
hamburgers, an assortment of
salads, rice and beans, and various
relishes-topped off with a des-
sert table of homemade goodies.
Entertainment was provided by
former campers and counselors
under the direction of former
Camp Director Phil Cocilovo
and assisted by Steve Iannacone.
Even the weather cooper-
ated to make this (the first of
many annual such events) a tre-
mendous success. The day was
beautiful, the food was fantastic
and most importantly, every-
one had a great time. A special
thanks to all of the Lions from
throughout the state who sup-
ported this event and helped in
making it a tremendous success.
(Continued from page 1) the 2008-2009 District Governors I look forward to the coming
• Strong community and state for their leadership and all their Lionistic year and am excited
projects that fulfill a multitude work on behalf of the Lions of about what our leadership and
of needs; MD16. MERLO team has planned.
• One of the leading eyeglass Special thanks to PDG Dee We have so much to offer:
recycling centers in the country Wiemer and her state convention Great Spirit; the love of Lionism,
However, our challenges are committee for an inspiring and dedication to making a difference
also many: fun filled convention weekend. in not only other lives but the
• To continue to help those Many thanks to all our Lions lives of each other and knowing
in need and those with vision who have made the special effort that we live and embrace the Li-
problems; by serving on the state and district ons motto, “We Serve.”
• To encourage friends, family level on committees and projects. Thank you.
and acquaintances to embrace our
Lions mission;
• To form new clubs and to
provide service opportunities for
our current members;
• To encourage more participa-
tion on the district and state level
in leadership roles, on commit-
tees and projects;
• To continue to familiarize
and educate our members and
the general public about the Lions
mission.
This is an exciting time. We
understand our challenges and
know how to use our strengths
to meet those challenges. I thank
you with all my heart for all what
you have done and for what you
Lion John Bonforte, Sr., and his grandchildren, Allison McGowan
will continue to do in the name and Robert Fallon, present the strawberry fair donation of $5,500
of Lionism. We do make a dif- to the Oceanport Mayor Michael Mahon. Each year the Oceanport
ference. Lions Club donates some of the proceeds from their strawberry fair
Many thanks to Council to the borough. This year, the event was so successful that they were
able to increase their donation by $500.
Chairperson Doug Schembs and
  •6• new jersey lion FALL 2009    

International Convention
Minneap

H I
N

C
J K

L M P
  FALL 2009 new jersey lion • 7 •    

polis International Convention

D
G
B–Chinese dragon parades with the Lions at the International
Convention.
C–Margaret Chaplin, Lions Eye Bank of NJ Executive Director, and
outgoing District Governor Tony Abano.
D–PID Chuck Wiemer and grandson Brandon visit the Midwest Eye
Bank booth.
E–Lion Chuck Pivoney, Tinley Park Lions Club, Illinois and COO for

E
Midwest Eye Banks, PID Stan Grossman and Ruth Grossman, and Lion
Margaret Chaplin, Summit Lions Club.
F–PDG 16-C Marlene Martin, Hammonton Lions Club, PDG 16-B Pat
Pennell, Toms River Lions Club, Mary Ann Eberle, White Horse Lions
Club (16B), and Margaret Chaplin.
G–PID Bob and Elspeth Moore, council chair and vice chair of LEBNJ
board.
H–Nancy Nelson,Vineland Lions Club; Marlene Martin, Margaret Chaplin,
PDG Victor Graziano, Fairview Lions; IPDG 16-D Tony Abano, Highland
Park Phil-Am; PDG 16-D Bob Virgadamo-Cranbury Lions.
I–IPDG Bob and Christie Frank, Harrington Park Lions (16A).
J–PDG Barney Barnett, Scotch Plains Lions (16E).
K–Vice Governor Jim and Janice Heisler at the International parade.
L–Lots of food and lots of discussion.
M–District Governor Al Olizi and Roni Olizi enjoy the International
Convention.
N–Jeff and Jared Gans watch the International parade.
O–Vice Governor Jim Heisler, Marlene Martin, and Mel Bray before the

F start of the International parade.

P–NJ Delegation prepares to march in the International Convention
parade.
Q–Stan and Ruth Grossman finish marching in the International parade.
R–Edison Metro Lions Club and GYH club combined performance
group at the International Performance Festival.
S–Butterfly dancer Leo Katherine Zhao.

Q R
  •8• new jersey lion
Three Recognized for
Oustanding Support
The Lions Eye Bank of Delaware Valley presented
three awards for governors who demonstrated
outstanding support for the eye bank last
year. The awards will be presented at the first
cabinet meeting by the eye bank chairs from the
respective districts.
Lions Eye Bank of Delaware Valley Chairman Robert
Elsner presented an award to District A Past Governor
Robert Frank. The award will be presented by Eye Bank
2nd Vice Chairman Victor Graziano.
Chairman Bob presented an award to District B Past
Governor Richard Campana to be presented by District
Eye Bank Chairman Jim Hynes.
District C Eye Bank Chairman George Vinci receives
the Award to be presented to Past Governor Fred
Niji.
hers ponder .
e o t
hil
..
briefs
W
....Lions act.
••••
Camp Marcella to Host
Friends of Camp Marcella
Meeting–Camp Marcella,
New Jersey Camp for Blind
Children, Inc. will be hosting
a Friends of Camp Mar-
cella meeting and luncheon
for all Lions Clubs of Multiple
District 16 who would be
interested in participating in
work projects or the sponsoring
of projects at the Camp. The
meeting and luncheon will be
held on Sunday, October 4, at
the camp. An introduction to
Camp Marcella for those who
have never been to the project,
as well as for past and con-
tinued supporters, will begin
promptly at noon. Tours of the
camp will also be provided, fol-
lowed by lunch.
Information will be sent to all
clubs and response is requested
if you will be attending.
For additional information,
directions to the camp, or to
respond regarding your at-
tendance, please contact: PDG
Paula M. Tarantino, 9 Magno-
lia Street, Belleville, N.J. 07109,
or call (201) 709-4944.
••••
2010 International Peace
Poster Contest–The following
is a short summary of the rules.
For more details, go to the
International Web site and type
in 2010 Peace Poster. Note: the
dates are deadline established
by International. Your district
governor may require entries
in earlier. January 15-Oct. 1:
Purchase the kit from Inter-
national. November 15 (may
be earlier in some districts):
Deadline for the club to send in
one winning poster to the dis-
trict governor. Firm deadline.
Dec.1: Deadline for the district
governor to send one district
winner to the council chair.
December 15: Deadline to send
the winning multiple district
winner to the public relations
department at International.
Order your kits today, contact
your school.
••••
Lions Environmental Photo
Contest–This is a summary
of the rules. Please see the
International Web site for
specific rules. Entries may be
in black and white or color. No
people in the picture. Photos
must be original and unaltered.
No Photoshop. Categories:
Animal Life, Landscape (Urban
or Natural), Plant Life, or
Weather Phenomenon. There
is a special theme for this year:
“Lions Move to Grow Green.”
(Photos of Lions in action
implementing a Lions environ-
mental project). District due
dates will be set by the
district governor.
Lions clubs select
and submit one
winning photo
to the district.
Lions districts
submit one
winning
photo to the
multiple district
by January 15,
2010. Multiple
district must submit
one winning photo to the
International contest by March
1, 2010. All photos must be
8x10 (20.3x 25.4 cm) The of-
ficial entry is available on the
International Web site.
••••
Housing and United Services,
Inc.–From Lion Michael T.
Marrazzo, PCS, & Execu-
tive Director–The HUS MD
16 Project is operated by
people who are blind or visu-
ally impaired themselves. This
includes Lion Michael T.
Marrazzo, executive director,
who is blind and continues
to have decreasing sight with
age due to his eye condition
of Anaridia. The majority of
our board members are made
up of professionals who are
blind from birth or for many
years. So, you can see how it is
difficult to make a number of
club visitations each year with
such obstacles as transporta-
tion. We have been working
on a method of presenting a
program to all Lions clubs. We
had an opportunity to make
a DVD. This DVD has been
produced with the cooperation
of our local school district and
with the guidance of a teacher
of TV and movie production
and a college student from
Rutgers studying TV & Movie
Production. This brought
HUS the use of a TV studio
and the expertise necessary to
produce a professional quality
DVD with photo messaging–
and all for free. We thank the
teacher and college student for
volunteering their time in the
filming, editing, production,
and making arrangements for
the use of a TV studio for this
project. Lions, please do not
let their efforts go unutilized;
but honor their volunteers by
making use of this opportunity
to learn more about HUS. In
early July 2009 HUS sent out
a DVD to all Lion presidents
and secretaries of all clubs in
MD 16 New Jersey. This DVD
contains a program that revues
just how HUS serves and advo-
cates for people who are blind
in New Jersey.
The DVD was sent to your
2009 officers. If you have not
heard of this DVD, please ask
your past officers if they have
it. I urge each club to view the
DVD during one of their meet-
ings. If you have any questions,
you may call out office at (732)
872-1990. You may E-mail us
at Marrazzo@husnj.net. With
advanced notice, I can arrange
a real time Q&A session. Ad-
ditional updates can be found
at our Web site: www.lions.
husnj.net.
••••
The Lions Eye Bank of
Delaware Valley–The eye bank
FALL 2009    
is sponsoring a seven night
Mediterranean cruise next
September on the spectacular
Voyager Of The Seas. Depar-
ture port: Barcelona, Spain.
Ports of call: Barcelona,
Spain; Naples, Capri, Italy;
Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy;
Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy;
Villefranche (Nice), France;
Provence (Marseilles), France;
Barcelona, Spain. Departure
September 5, return September
12, 2010. We are getting fall
discount rates. Prices include
round trip airfare, all air taxes,
all transfers, 7 night cruise,
meals entertainment, daily ac-
tivities, port charges, a $200 pp.
tax deductible donation to the
Eye Bank Endowment Fund,
plus all governmental fees and
taxes. Air from Philadelphia,
Baltimore or New York–your
choice. Call for information.
Add ons for additional nights
in Barcelona are available.
Discount single, triple and quad
rates available at request. For
more information, call (856)
663-0444 or (856) 783-8040.
••••
The Board of Trustees of
Camp Marcella (New Jersey
Camp for Blind Children, Inc.)
cordially invites you to attend
our Annual Harvest Luncheon
honoring all Lions of Multiple
District 16-New Jersey and
Robert (Bob) W. Moore, P.I.D.,
on Sunday, October 25 at noon
at the Regency House Hotel/
Best Western, 140 Route 23
North, Pompton Plains, N.J.
Donation is $40 per person.
RSVP on or before October
8, 2009. Please make checks
payable to: Camp Marcella-
N.J. Camp for Blind Children,
Inc. Please forward checks/
reservations to: PDG Paula M.
Tarantino 9 Magnolia Street,
Belleville, N.J. 07109. A special
thanks to Margaret Chaplin,
executive director of the Lions
Eye Bank of New Jersey, who
supplied many of the Interna-
tional Convention photos.
••••
Freehold Lions Scholarship
Awards–The John Philip
Sousa Music Award of $500
was presented to Frank Falisi,
a member of the school band,
by President Roman Janocha
at the Freehold Township
High School’s annual music
awards dinner held on May
27. The band director, Ed
Gattsik, advised that Frank
is an accomplished musician,
who plays several musical
instruments proficiently and is
well liked by his peers. At the
annual Lions Senior Awards
Ceremonies held on June 8 at
the Marie Katzenbach School
for the Deaf, PDG John Al-
len, on behalf of the officers
and members of the Freehold
Township Lions Club, present-
ed scholarships of $250 each
to Christopher Aurelio and
Christie Espine. Both of these
students have been accepted to
college and will use the award
money to help defray college
expenses. In addition to provid-
ing scholarships, the Lions
Clubs of District 16-B, as is cus-
tomary, gave to each member
of the graduating class of 2009
a “Shake Awake” alarm clock
and a TDD machine. At the
  FALL 2009 new jersey lion • 9 •    

thers ponder . District 16 C Charita-

e o ble Foundation pres-
hil
..
ents party with a

briefs
purpose–Summer
W

in November.
Join your fel-
low Lions in
“Lionritaville”
all you can eat

....Lions act.
conclusion of the ceremo-
nies, the teachers, students
and parents individually and
collectively expressed their
heartfelt thanks and gratitude
to the Lions in attendance for
their support of the Katzen-
bach School for the Deaf and
its students.
beer and mar-
garitas included.
Music by DJ Jeff
Allen of Sandbar Radio
on November 20 in Brigalias,
Winslow, NJ at 7 p.m. until
11 p.m. (it’s 5 o’clock some-
where). Admission is $50
per person presented by the
Lions District 16-C Charitable
Foundation. For tickets, con-
tact Howard Weimer at (856)
696-4939.
••••

•••• Brick Lions Club to Sponsor

As in the past, the Chester
Lions Club is awarding
numerous scholarships to
area students. This year, 10
students from West Morris
Mendham High School and
10 students from West Morris
Central High School will each
receive a $1,000 scholarship.
Candidates are selected based
upon financial need, scholas-
Golf Outing–On Monday,
September 28, the Brick Lions
Club will hold their second
annual “Hank Handchen
Memorial” golf outing at
the Lakewood Country Club
located off of County Line North Plainfield Lions Celebrate July 4th in Style–Tom Miller, Lenny Lange, Vic dé Marsi, Frank Stabile, Tom
Road in Lakewood, New Fagan, Andy Patykula, Joe Tevlin, and Tom Barrett. The North Plainfield Lions decorated the Lions eye mobile
Jersey.The cost of the out- for the big parade. The walkers toss red, white, and blue beads to the parade on-lookers. If they don’t look sharp,
ing is $100 per golfer which they may get soused by the guys with the super soakers. Everyone had a bunch of fun.
includes green fees, golf cart,

What’s Going On at Lions Eye

lunch credit and awards din-
tic achievement, community ner. For those not wishing to
service, extracurricular activi- golf, dinner only is $30 per
ties, and accomplishment that

Bank of Delaware Valley

exhibit exceptional leadership.
Student scholars from West
Morris Central High School
who have exhibited exception-
al accomplishments are Jes-
sica Hughes, Michelle Pitch,
Alyssa Brady, Desiree Rollins,
Tara Bagnole, Daniel Lavery,
Jessica Davis, Chelsey Nolan,
Andrew Seals, and Midiyna
Bass. Students receiving
scholarships from West Mor-
ris Mendham High School
with exemplary records are
Catherine Angowski, Chelsey
Boudreau, Kaitlyn Davis,
Kaleen Green, Andrew Jung,
Rebecca Nielsen, Bethany
Shenise, Brian Stellingwerf,
Madeline Taterka, and Kristin
Weigand. The Chester Lions
Club has provided scholar-
ships for our brightest and
most accomplished area
students for 40 years
••••
The Chester Lioness Club
will sponsor a “Gala Eve-
ning at the Show” on Friday,
Oct. 9, at 8 p.m. at the Black
River Playhouse in Chester.
The featured show will be
“The Hound of the Bask-
ervilles” based on the novel
by Sir Arthur Conon Doyle
and adapted for the stage
by Tim Kelly, directed by
Christ Mortensen. Sir Arthur
Conon Doyle’s spine-tingling
mystery, featuring his most fa-
mous detective, Sherlock Hol-
mes, is laced with suspense
and humor. The ticket cost of
$18 is partially tax deduct-
ible, as proceeds will fund the
many charitable activities of
the Chester Lioness Club. The
ticket price includes refresh-
ments of wine, soda, cheese,
and fruit. Tickets may be pur-
chased from any Lioness Club
member. To purchase tickets,
person. The golf format will
be a four person scramble
with awards for 1st, 2nd, and
3rd place teams. Additionally
there will be prizes for a hole
in one, longest drive, and clos-
est to the pin. Hole and tee
sponsors as well as Platinum,
Gold, and Silver level Spon-
sorships are available. All
proceeds will fund the Brick
Lions Club/Hank Handchen
Memorial Scholarships. For
information call Steve Naples
at 732 833 7505 or Vince
Blasi at 732-267 3491. Make
checks payable to the Brick
Lions Club and may to Brick
Lions, P.O. Box 977, Brick
N.J. 08723.
••••
District 16C Charity Ball–
Friday, November 13-Venice
Plaza. 224 Cross Keys Road,
Berlin, New Jersey. 7-8 p.m.
Unlimited hot and cold hors
d’oeuvres 8-11 p.m. Dinner
and dancing. Music provided
by Pure Joy. Black tie option-
al. Enjoy a sociable evening
with your fellow Lions. Bring
your friends. Chinese auction.
Chance to win twenty fabu-
lous prizes. More information
to come. Contact Lions Sal
Velardi at lionsal@comcast.
net or MaryAnn Ragone at
mragone@sjeyecenter.org
with any questions.
••••
From the Editor:
Please, no pictures by
cell phone. They do not
reproduce well, only
send camera pictures
that are clear and sharp.
It is best to use a flash
both inside and out; it
reduces shadows.
The Eye Bank had a very good
year under the chairmanship of
Mary Devon O’Brien. At the an-
nual meeting (reorganization),
the newly elected Chairman
PDG Bob Elsner was inducted
into his office.
We thank the Lions of the Tri
State area for their continued fi-
nancial support for your eye bank.
We are pleased to report that the
Polgar Fellowships (the Endow-
ment Fund) have surpassed 100
and several fellows have become
Progressive Fellows.
During this year, we will be re-
newing our accreditation with the
Eye Bank Association of America.
This happens every three years
and we always get the highest ac-
creditation that they award.
During July 1, 2008-June 30,
2009 we were very active in our
eye donor program. In Dela-
ware we provide 152 corneas
for surgery and local research
and training. In New Jersey we
provided 184 corneas for surgery
and local research and training:
In Pennsylvania we provided 662
corneas for surgery and research
and training. This represents
almost 1,000 individuals who
had their sight restored during
the last year. It is interesting to
note that our youngest donor
was under one year of age and
our oldest was over 70. Each year
we work directly with over 100
cornea surgeons in the tri state
area. It is interesting to note, that
not every cornea donated is us-
able. Federal laws and The Eye
Bank Association of America
have procedures and screenings
that must be done to protect the
recipients of diseased or unusable
tissue. Still the wait list has been
reduced from months to on de-
mand during the past few years.
A couple weeks ago, in one of the
area hospitals, they had a problem
with a cornea surgery during the
actual surgery. A Mayday call
was put out to your eye bank and
within an hour, another cornea
was delivered, the operation was
completed and the patient has
had their sight restored. It is all in
a day’s work, but something we
can all be proud of. In addition,
we have a procedure for those
who can not afford a cornea to
provide one free and another
procedure to provide corneas to
surgeons throughout the world
on a need basis. We work with
a medical team at Wills Eye that
each year goes abroad, to teach
and do corneal transplants.
Williamstown Lions Club was pleased to donate a dozen backpacks
filled with school supplies to Operation Backpack.
Your support has provided the
“Gift of Sight” to those who were
living in darkness. Thank you for
all you do for people with eye
problems.
At our annual meeting several
awards were given: Fred Frisch
of the Ventnor Margate Lions
Club was named the Crystal
Visionary Award for his dedica-
tion to the Lions Eye Bank of
Delaware Valley. Several clubs
were named for their outstand-
ing generosity to the Eye Bank:
Ambassador Awards went to, in
clubs in New Jersey, to: District
A-Fairview Lions Club, West
New Yourk Leones, District B
Freehold Twp. Lions Club, Dis-
trict C-Haddonfield Lions Club
and Hammonton Lions Club,
District D- Warren Twp. Lions
Club and District E Chester and
Newark Lions Clubs.

NJ Lions
or for more information, call
RZ

We Serve
Lioness Virginia Savell at
(908) 879-6543. ••••
••••
  • 10 • new jersey lion FALL 2009    

Jersey Boys Meet the Black Forest Trolls at the Oktoberfest party–(L-R) Dennis Brubaker (16A), Phil Stern
(16E), Jim Dougherty (16D), and Al Olizi (16C).

Middleton Sponsors Auto Meet for the Blind

Classic Cars For A Cause–Middletown Lions raise over $13,000 at
annual Auto Meet For Camp Happiness. Members of the Middletown
Township Lions Club celebrate the success of the auto meet. From left
to right, NJBCA Executive Director Doug Scott, Event Co-Chair and
Lion Craig Finnegan, Lion Chairman Al Siano, and Lion Second Vice-
President Kathy Davies.
A 1930 Buick Coupe owned by Louis Vera of Matawan took the
President’s Award.
Classic cars, community, ca-
maraderie, and a cause–The
Middletown Lions Club Fourth
Annual Auto Meet For The
Blind certainly had it all. Held
at Dearborn Market in Holm-
del, what has become a major
celebration for both the local
community and the scores of
classic car owners and enthu-
siasts who travel from around
the state to attend is also the
largest fundraiser of the year
for Camp Happiness, the pride
of the Middletown Lions Club.
Camp Happiness is part of the
Director Doug Scott was ap-
preciative of the fund raising
support, which yielded over
$13,000. “The auto meet has
become an indispensable part
of our revenue stream and an
integral part of our success.
The Lions’ caring efforts and PID Bob Moore in a Mardi Gras mood at the International Parade.
dedication to the blind helps to
change and enrich lives,” Scott
said. Event Co-Chair and Lion
Jimmy Guerrieri commended
the volunteers who helped to
make the event a success and
stated, “It has been an honor
and a privilege to serve along
with fellow Co-Chair and Lion
Craig Finnegan in addition to
the many volunteers who made
the event a success for Camp
Happiness.”
Middletown Lions Club
Chairman and Immediate Past-
President Al Siano actually
proposed the idea for the car
show several years ago and com-
mented on what it has come
to symbolize. “Every year the
show is held the Sunday before
the Fourth of July, a time when At Lions Eye Bank of Delaware Valley, Past Chair Mary Devon O’Brien
people are in the swing of sum- was presented with a Polgar Progressive Award by Jim Minnich.
mer and making plans for the
holiday. The show has come
to represent pride in over 100
years of American ingenuity
apparent in the automobiles and
by the display of a World War II
jeep which holds the American
Flag. Great American music is
played, children participate in
a hula hoop contest with par-
ents, grandparents, and great
grandparents looking on and
remembering that wonderful
New Jersey Blind Citizens As-
American toy, and the parking
sociation (NJBCA), Leonardo,
lot is alive with the spirit and
and is a 100-year old non-profit
energy of those who attend. It is
organization that serves blind
all about pride in our commu-
and visually-impaired adults
nity and in our country,” Siano
and children with an array of
declared. He urged everyone
programs and services. The
to take a few moments to think
cornerstones are an art therapy
about what it would be like to be
program, computer tutoring,
blind. “Imagine–if only for a few
job search assistance, a garden
seconds–what it would be like to
therapy program, and a very
be blind and to be dealing with
well-attended day program that Middletown Lions Club Chairman Al Siano recognized fellow Lion,
the progressive loss of vision.
provides “campers” with social- Dr. Todd Gershenow of EyesFirst Vision Center, Middletown, for his
Camp Happiness brings hope,
ization, cooked meals, kinship, considerable support of the blind and visually-impaired. Dr. Gershenow,
joy, and pride into the lives of an optometrist, has donated his services in the highest spirit of Lionism,
and activities like bingo Monday
those it serves,” Siano added. so those in need could have the gift of sight. Lori Anne Oliwa, Middletown
through Thursday. Executive
Lions Club 4th vice-president and Public Information officer, MERLO
MD 16-B Recruitment chair, The Write Angles L.L.C.
  FALL 2009 new jersey lion • 11 •    

In Loving Memory
For the fourth consecutive year, the Bergenfield Lions Club
Memorial Day Float won the Mayor’s Trophy as “Best in the
Parade.” The float was designed by Lion Joe Verga and was a
product of many hours of work by the membership. The theme,
“In Loving Memory” honored all New Jerseyans who lost their
lives in Iraq and Afghanistan. Each red, white, and blue star
honors a fallen hero-a visual testament to their sacrifice.

A Performance to Be Remembered
By Eddie G. Hui, PDG, NJ Edi- as a last-minute substitute for to take video and pictures for our
son Metro Lions Club the other butterfly dancer. Kevin performance in Minneapolis.
Zhao is the youngest performer The Edison Metro Lions Club
My passion for musical perfor- and was a last-minute stand-in is fortunate to have the support
mance started in college. I worked for our group. Six-year-old Kevin from Lion Grace and her family
hard to own a rock & roll band caused a lot of surprising laughs members.
and performed in schools, night from the audience as he appeared Although my moment of “star-
clubs, and parties. At the time, last behind the grownup upon dom” has long gone, but I would
I also attended many famous entering the stage. The two tal- always cherish the wonderful
international concerts at big au- ented youngsters are the children time on stage performing in front
ditoriums, hoping and wishing of Susan and Joe Zhao, who also of approximately 800 Lions from
to perform in that kind of arena participated in the performance. around the world. I find that my
someday. It was only a dream Lions Susan and Joe were in- favorite old song, “All I Have to
that I had never expected it to stalled on Lions Induction Day do is Dream,” is most befitting to
come true. in New York this year. It’s worth describe my present feelings. Ev-
Unbelievably, it became a real- mentioning that Lion Grace Lui erything starts with a dream, and
ity on the stage of a huge audito- has donated generously to help my dream came true at the Lions
rium on July 7, 2009. with the trip expenses. Her hus- Clubs International Performance
My wife, Linnie, and I had the band, Lion Feng Tien, also helped Festival.
opportunity to participate in the
9th Annual Performance Festival
at the 92nd Lions International
Convention in Minneapolis,
Minnesota. The performance
took place at the Minneapo-
lis Convention Center in the
1,200 fixed-seat main auditorium
Bergenfield Lions honored 2009 Club Peace Poster Winner–Lion Judy
equipped with the best acoustics
Verga, vice president, presented Alaia Masuda of Roy Brown Middle
School with an award and a $50 Savings Bond. It is the time of year for for quality sound environment.
all the clubs to order their Peace Poster Kit from International. One of the programs at the fes-
tival was performed by members
from the Edison Metro Lions
Club, Edison-Highland Park
Leo Club, and GYH Club. The
two programs, “You and Me,” the
2008 Olympic theme song, and
In one of his last acts as president of the Middletown Township Lions
“Butterfly Lovers,” were choreo-
Club, current Chairman Al Siano (far right) bestowed the President’s
graphed and directed by several Award on two deserving individuals for their dedication to Camp
members who worked hard to Happiness, part of the N.J. Blind Citizen’s Association. Pictured are
make the performance as best as Camp Happiness Executive Director Doug Scott, aka Lion Boxer
possible. Thanks to Leo Katherine (second from left), and Dottie Lee, aka Lion Crochet Lady, and Past
Zhao who performed beautifully District Governor Norm Palmer looks on (far left).

Lion Toby Stark at 28, the youngest member to be elected president of the
Eatontown Lions Club, is sworn in by Lion Don Kaufmann, the oldest
serving member of the club with 57 years of service to the Lions and the The International Golf Challenge at the state convention was taken up by PID Bob Moore, International Guest
community. Terry Graham, and his wife Jean and Golf Chairman Frank Magnolia. The golf course won.
  • 12 • FALL 2009    

Lions Eye Bank of New Jersey Presents 2009 Visionary Awards

PDG Richard Chittum, chair of the LEBNJ Board, introduced and congratulated
Former Governor/Senate President Richard J. Codey as a 2009 Visionary. Lions Eye Bank of New Jersey honors Richard J. Codey, Kenneth Mattfield, and Isabel Baquero as visionaries.
Former Governor/Senate President
Richard J. Codey giving remarks
following his award presentation
Senate President and Former
Gov. Richard J. Codey, Lion Isabel
Baquero of Elizabeth, and the late
Lion Kenneth Mattfield of Scotch
Plains were honored as the Lions
Eye Bank of New Jersey’s “2009
Visionaries of the Year” at an awards
banquet at L’Affaire Fine Catering in
Mountainside on June 4.
Lion Isabel Baquero and Pilar M. Fiano, guidance counselor for School No. 3
“The commitment to eye, organ,
Elizabeth Public Schools, who presented the award to Ms. Baquero.
and tissue donation shown by this
year’s honorees has distinguished
each of them as a leader in the fight
to restore sight and save lives,” said
Margaret Chaplin, executive director
of the Lions Eye Bank of New Jersey.
“Our board of directors is proud to
recognize their extraordinary com-
munity service.”
Sen. Codey sponsored the Hero
Act, which will provide organ dona-
tion education in high schools, and
every licensed driver and identifica-
tion card holder in New Jersey will
be asked to consider joining the state PDG Elspeth Moore, vice chair of the
donor registry. The Hero Act also Lions Eye Bank of New Jersey Board,
required the creation of an online was the emcee for the Visionary of the
portal to join the N.J. Registry (www. Year event (Fill)
donatelifenj.org), which became ac-
tive this past May. Ms. Baquero, a donation. He was instrumental in
member of the Elizabeth Colombian making the Lions Eye Bank of New
Lions Club, has worked tirelessly to Jersey the valuable community re-
promote eye, organ, and tissue dona- source it is today.
tion in the Hispanic community. Visit www.lionseyebanknj.org to
Mr. Mattfield was a member of the view additional photographs from
Springfield Lions Club and a strong
Visionary 2009 or call (800) 653-9379
advocate of eye, organ, and tissue
for more information.
Non-Profit Organization

HILLSBOROUGH, N.J.
US Postage

Permit No. 1
Paid

Stafford Township Lions Club Turns 60

New Jersey Lions Eye Glass Recycling Center

Stafford Lions started off their
year by holding a wine tasting
dinner. Lion Mario Cascone
was chairman. It was the first
time we tried this kind of proj-
ect and it went over very well.
The club invited the guide
dogs from Morristown to the
town’s annual Founders Day,
held every June. Stafford Lions
named three Melvin Jones
Awards this year. Lion Lou
Schovanec, Lion Tom Struble,
and Lion Ed Jones were the
recipients. Lion Joyce Palm-
er, DG presented the awards,
and Lion Norman Palmer
PDG installed new officers.
This year we have collected
approximately 800 pairs of used
eyeglasses that were taken to the
recycle center, reports Lions Ed
and Isabelle Sapanara.
In the past four years we
have tested over 700 children
ages 3 to 6 in the Southern
Ocean County area, and have
referred over 70 of them for
annual Black Whale trip to At-
lantic City. Chairman was Lion
Peter Casamento.
On September 19 the club
held its annual Lions picnic at
Lion Bob Skrables.
Our biggest event will be
held on October 16. The club
will be celebrating 60 years
of service to Southern Ocean
Trenton, New Jersey 08638

further evaluation by their County and everyone is invited

family eye care professionals.
That is about 10% or twice the
national average for preschool-
ers says Lion Tom Struble,
Lions program director. We are
partnering with over a dozen
local preschool, day care centers
and other organizations, which
provide preschool services.
to join us at the Holiday Inn
on 151 Rt. 72 E at 7 p.m. for
a sit down dinner. Cash bar,
door prizes, and music by Paul
Moschette. All this for $45 per
person. For more information
or reservations, contact Lion
Bob Skrable at (609) 709-6093.
Reservations must be in by
Box 5131

The club has done nine White September 15.

Cane Days in Manahawkin and
on Long Beach Island. This
has been an excellent project,
reports Lion Peter Casamento,
chairman. August 29 was our
Did you know Stafford Li-
ons started the First Aid Squad
of Manahawkin and donated
their first ambulance? What an
achievement that was.