John Willoughby
reporter2@greenepublishing.com
Annually, residents of Madison flock to the centerpiece of Lake Frances on the fourth day of July to celebrate America's independence. Bursts of gunpowder light up the night sky with smoke brushing the top of oak trees and pines before dissipating.
But, for the Madison Lions Club, their mission is much more than providing a dazzling fireworks show one out of 365 days per year, though it's a nice addition to their recognition in the community.
The Madison Lions Club was chartered under Lions International in 1942, with members whose names are often found in the history books of the North Florida county. Van H. Priest, T.C. Merchant, Nat Norfleet and Buford Selman were just a few of the 33 charter members who supported the club in its early days.
The club's history remains relevant and remembered to this day, as current members: Dr. Joseph Herring, Lisa Burnham, Commissioner Alston Kelley and others utilize the original Lions Club sign, tail-twister pot and brass bell, which were all used since the clubs chartering.
Jim Sale remains the longest-active member of Madison Lions Club, today. Sale, whose father was a charter member, recalls some of the fundraisers formerly hosted by the Lions. "When I joined the Lions Club in April of 1974, the main fundraisers were the pancake suppers and selling brooms, mops and light bulbs, door to door.," said Sale, who rarely misses a scheduled meeting. "Later, flea markets and turkey shoots were added as fundraisers."
Today, the Madison Lions Club hosts a number of community events. Those fundraisers take place throughout the year, including the Madison Lions Club BBQ chicken dinner in March and the Fourth of July God and Country Celebration.
"Back then, we had the fireworks display around Christmas. The city would put mortars in the ground in front of the Woman's Club," Sale recalls. "None of us were trained in shooting fireworks. I don't think we had a lick of liability insurance."
Proceeds from each event have benefited the club's mission: sight conservation, which is one of many missions of the Madison Lions Club. Donations of used glasses are also welcomed and, when needed, the Lions Club ensures individuals receive their glasses by chipping in financially. The Madison Lions Club has recently begun visiting schools and screening Madison County students for vision impairments.
The local Madison Lions Club is always actively seeking new members to help serve and participate in activities throughout the year, help with their fundraisers and even bless seniors of Madison County, an annual Christmas time act of kindness in partnership with the Senior Citizens Council of Madison County.
While you're invited to join in on the fun, weekly in-person meetings are on hold due to COVID-19. For information regarding the Madison Lions Club, call club president Tim Dunn at (850) 464-4890 or visit www.lionsclubs.org.