Lions clubs elect officers at district convention

HUDSON — The Holiday Inn was the setting from April 11 through 13 for the 42nd annual convention held by the Lions Clubs of District 13-D, comprising 60 clubs in Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana, Stark, and Portage counties.

A highlight of the event was the election of officers who will begin serving terms on July 1.

Members of various clubs who were elected to office were: Harold Ullman of Crestwood, district governor; Don Heldman of East Liverpool, vice district governor; and Jeff Snyder of Magnolia, deputy district governor. Ted Filmer, past district governor, was elected as the state building board trustee. Carl Leonhardt of Massillon is the present governor.

The convention opened April 11 with an island luau and musical entertainment by Suzanne Laughlin Veritek of East Liverpool. Luncheon entertainment on Saturday was by Ken Hammontree, author, who portrayed Lions founder, Melvin Jones, and gave an inspirational patriotic address. Singing groups and story tellers from Massillon Lions Club entertained that evening.

The business sessions featured forums and the presentation of awards. Funds raised by district Lions at their Parade of Checks exceeded $114,000.

International Director Russell Sarver of Durand Lions Club in Illinois was the keynote speaker at the grand banquet on Sunday. Cochairs for the convention were Past District Governor Paul Metrovich and his wife, Linda, of Calcutta Lions Club.