As I’ve mentioned previously our service clubs here in Summerland are truly amazing.
This was shown earlier this year with the opening of the new netted playground at Dale Meadows and the great support of the Summerland Rotary Club and the Summerland Kinsmen Club. Well it continued last week with the opening of the new Lions Club playground at Powell Beach.
The Summerland Lions Club, even with a declining membership contributed over $20,000 to have the playground built.
Under presidents John Edwards and Gladys Schmidt, they were the driving force to have the playground become a reality. At the official opening on Tuesday, Sept. 19 it was great to see the Lions Club members both old and new mixing with the children on the new playground.
Over the years the Lions Club have been involved in many community projects including the many partnerships with Parks and Recreation. Projects have included the playground at Powell Beach, as well as the softball field at Powell Beach Park, a project that Orlie Johnston spearheaded. The Lions were also heavily involved in the building of the Youth Centre with Harold Simpson (who the Youth Centre is named after) and Alex Grimmer (now 96 years of age), two of the driving forces. I met Alex in 1990 and we have not only worked on a variety of projects together we have become good friends.
Other major projects included the Water Spray Park built in 2000 and the Gazebo at Peach Orchard Beach built in 2008. This was in addition to a variety of smaller projects along the way.
Presidents or members I have worked with were the colorful Walter Murby, ticket seller supreme Gordon Clancy and always working and amazing, Cliff White. As well as Gladys and Jack Wong, Ken Davy, Jack Saunders, Lionel Coleman and one of their charter members from the 1980s, Dick Hoogenberg.
I’m sure there are many members I have not mentioned but this definitely is an organization that cares about Summerland and for years has been a large part of our community.
Just a reminder for everyone to drop by the Aquatic Centre and get your tickets for the October 19 Pro-D Day Skate and Swim and the up and coming Halloween Haunt on Oct. 27.
Dale MacDonald has been Summerland’s Director of Parks and Recreation for the last 22 years and in his sporting past has won provincial championships in four different sports.