San Fernando Les Efforts Lions Club

MEET OUR PRESIDENT

Lion Marcia Loney-Halls, MJF is the elected President of the Lions Club of Les Efforts for the fiscal year 2016-2017. Lion Marcia joined the Lions Club of Les Efforts 2010-2011. Our Charter President Lion Alma Thomson, MJF, sponsored her.

She had the honour of being installed as the Club’s President by Past Council Chairman Lion Alison Sloane-Seale on Saturday 4th June 2016 at the Soong’s Greatwall Restaurant and Lounge, Circular Road, San Fernando. It was indeed a lovely way for her to spend an evening, taking the oath in the presence of her Companion in Service Kelvin and two out of her four children Marlissia and Marsha, who were among the many guests. She has three daughters and one son.

Her Inaugural Address moved the audience to a standing ovation for she was quite precise as she relished in her theme “Reaching New Heights in Lionism Together in Service”. One of the very ambitious projects she highlighted in her address was an unforgettable “Club Members Retreat”, and it was proven as such on Saturday 25^th June 2016 in the serene atmosphere of the San Salvador Estate, Grand Couva.

Lion President also received the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellow Award at the Installation of Officers Ceremony, and it is now placed on record, that she is the newest Melvin Jones Fellow in the Lions Club of Les Efforts.

Here is a general comment on Lionism from the President: “Lionism has taught me fellowship, compassion, selflessness, to live well, laugh often and love much…but most importantly to strive in my own way to make the world a better place. I am privileged to work with a service-minded and dedicated group of individuals who share a keen interest in making our community a better place to live.”

CLUB RETREAT - Club President for the fiscal year 2016-2017 promised an unforgettable retreat to the members of the Lions Club of Les Efforts. She did not fail on her promise since members who attended, are still speaking of the grand time; they had at San Salvador Estate on Saturday 25^th June 2016. Facilitators included Clinical Psychologist – Ms Wendy Nobbie, Gynecologist/Obstetrician Dr. Morris, who dealt with women’s health and nutrition, Dance Tutor Ms. Juliette Walker and Ms. Kay Greenidge and YTEPP trainees who pampered participants with a manicure/pedicure session.

The fine cuisine and clean countryside environment gave members a chance to live together, love, learn and relax in the natural beauty of San Salvador Estate.

CAMP LUCKY - The Lions Club of Les Efforts held its annual signature project “Camp Lucky” from 11^th – 22^nd July 2016, at the La Romaine Government Primary School, Church Street, La Romaine. Camp Administrator – Lion Suzette Clarence and Camp Coordinator – Lion Heather Ovid together with a team of Lions had the unenviable task of creating an atmosphere for children ages 7 – 12, to enjoy two weeks of overwhelming fun……… dance, music, art and craft, field trip and party time are just a few items which were used to engage their time from 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. each day.

5K WALK/RUN - It was a bright Sunday morning, July 17^th 2016 when the members of the Lions Club of Les Efforts donned themselves in sneakers, caps and track pants to embark on a joint initiative with Nigel Couttier Promotions and the Love Connection Group as they hosted their first 5K Walk/Run, which was organized mainly for Mon Repos community. The Honourable Randal Mitchell Member of Parliament for San Fernando East participated in this exercise, and suggested a closer relationship with the Lions Club of Les Efforts. The occasion gave rise for a great opportunity to serve, and encourage the visibility of the Lions Club of Les Efforts.

BIRTHDAY BASH - The Lions Club of Les Efforts celebrated its 24^th Birthday on Thursday 4^th August 2016. It was an extraordinary evening since our birthday coincided with one of our regular meetings. Indeed, it was an evening to remember. The Birthday Cake, Toast, snacks, ice cream, songs and a walk down memory lane, deserves the expression “Oh what a lovely way to spend an evening.”

SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM - Twelve students who were successful in the SEA Examinations were recipients of $800.00 each in the form of a voucher to be redeemed at Keith Khan Bookstores for school supplies and uniforms. A presentation ceremony was held on Saturday 13^th August 2016 at the St. Paul’s Anglican Boys’ School. Motivational Speaker Mr. Dominic Dos Santos was present to impart words of encouragement, all in the interest of students, parents and teachers. The Principals and teachers of the St. Paul’s Anglican Boys’ School, La Roamine RC School, Cipero RC School, La Romaine Government Primary School, Bien Venue Presbyterian School and Riversdale Presbyterian School highly commended the Lions Club of Les Efforts for this gesture. Parents of the selected students (shown below) also formed part of the audience. They expressed their thanks and appreciation to the President and members of the Lions Club of Les Efforts, for extending a timely hand of service.

1. JONATHAN GOKOOL – LA ROMAINE GOVERNMENT

2. AQIYLA CORNWALL– LA ROMAINE GOVERNMENT

3. ROYANN STEELING – LA ROMAINE R.C. SCHOOL

4. DAVID TAYLOR – LA ROMAINE R.C. SCHOOL

5. KATHYANN NANESSAR – CIPERO R.C.

6. DARA RUDDER - CIPERO R.C.

7. MUHAMMED MOHAMMED - RIVERSDALE PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL

8. SELENE BOODOO - RIVERSDALE PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL

9. MALIK IRVINE – ST. PAUL’S BOYS’ ANGLICAN SCHOOL

10. TYREK SYLVESTER – ST. PAUL’s BOYS’ ANGLICAN SCHOOL

11. CHELSEA SALAZAR - BIEN VENUE PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL

12. MEGAN PAYNE - BIEN VENUE PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL

INDEPENDENCE DAY -31^ST AUGUST - Les Efforts Lions left the comfort of their home on a public holiday, to spend a day with the young people at Hope Centre. The children housed at this institution are from broken families; and it was a great opportunity for Lions to shower them with love and affection. Lunch was served and pleasant interaction was encouraged amongst them. We were happy to respond to the International President’s call to celebrate our youth in the month of August.

A TOUCH OF JAZZ - Friday 9^th September saw Les Efforts Lions breaking the glass ceiling in the South land by hosting a concert at the Naparima Bowl, Paradise Pasture, San Fernando. The show started promptly at 8.00 p.m. with the National Anthem of Trinidad and Tobago followed by the strains of Monica Cagan, Nigel O’Connor, Divine Echoes and others. Proceeds from this function have been directed to assist the less fortunate in our community. Master of Ceremonies – Ms. Avian Crooks ensured that the evening’s proceedings were well conducted, by adding humour and other pleasant surprises.

BAYSHORE COMMUNITY - On October 8 the members of the Lions Club of Les Efforts were in action, as we worked alongside other Non Governmental Organizations, serving the citizens of Bayshore, Marabella. It was a full day of Health and Wellness. Diabetes testing, Health Pressure Checks, and Cholesterol tests formed a major part of the day’s proceedings.

WORLD SIGHT WEEK - The Lions Club of Les Efforts partnered with Value Optical to conduct vision screening on 50 students of the La Romaine Government Primary School, Church Street, La Romaine on 11^th October, 2016. The students were given a short lecture of “Eye Health” and “Taking Care of Spectacles”. A cash donation was presented to the Blind Welfare Association, South on 13th October in keeping with World Sight Day.

WORLD DIABETES DAY (November 14) was observed with the screening of teachers from four primary schools. The Principal and teachers of all schools commended the Lions Club of Les Efforts for taking an interest in their health and well-being. This exercise was conducted under the supervision of Lion Jennifer Joseph who is a retired Nurse, and members of the Lions Club of Les Efforts. Health professionals were also present to assist in designated areas.

NOVEMBER 20^TH – PARANG AND LIME - Our club’s annual Parang and Lime has found its place on the social calendar of many throughout Trinidad and Tobago. The décor and comfortable ambience at the Petrotrin’s Sports Club, Pointe a Pierre, together with the live performance of Los Angeles de St. Michael Parang Band kept the patrons eagerly involved. Many thanks to Kenny J, Jerrelle Hurdle and all other performers, who contributed their time and talent to this event. A sumptuous meal was served, while a well-stocked Tamer’s Bar was in operation.

11^th DECEMBER - This year the annual children’s Christmas Party was converted into four hours of non-stop merriment for 125 children. Members took up their positions promptly at 1.00 p.m. in the beautifully decorated stalls to serve Hot Dogs, Ice Cream, Cup Cakes and a variety of other treats to the youngsters. A Balloon Artist and a Pop Corn Machine were on site to enhance this innovative venture. Many Lions stood in awe as they watched the children prance in the bouncy castle, as others focused on the games and brand tub. The beaming smiles and joyous screams of happy kids filled the arena as Santa arrived. This event caused the buzz of a festive Bazaar on the grounds of the La Romaine Government Primary School. School Principal, Mr. Borneo provided a wide selection of Christmas music. The afternoon climaxed with the distribution of toys by Santa. This massive explosion of sheer love was carefully packaged for the well deserved.

CHRISTMAS FOOD HAMPERS - Some families were assisted to cushion the effects of the economic downturn during the month of December. This charitable act of kindness came through the Lions who stood at the Grocery Stores to solicit non-perishable food items and Christmas goodies from customers. This is in keeping with the LCI Centennial Service challenge, “Relieving the Hunger.”

THE GOVERNOR’S DREAM - An All Inclusive Dinner Party held under the distinguished patronage of District Governor 60 A, Lion Nadine Bushell saw Lions and their guests from Regions III and IV in their entire splendor. This function was held on 16^th December at the Trinidad and Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute, Chaguaramus. Sixteen members of our club attended. The District Governor considered this occasion to be one of distinction, and was very happy to greet all attendees, as she captured her moment of glory. Event Coordinator Lion Pat White said in her remarks, that “the Dinner Party is one of the Governor’s dreams which has become a reality.”

AN EVENING TO REMEMBER - Lions Annamay Haynes, Gail Martin and Paulette Mc Ewen gave very informative and interactive presentations at our regular meeting held on January 5^th 2017.

The evening activities were held in tribute of our Founder Melvin Jones. This was followed by a rededication ceremony led by Charter President, Lion Alma Thomson.

The month of January is listed on the Lions Calendar as Melvin Jones Memorial month.

REFLECTIONS AND BREAKFAST - The Club held its Annual Reflections and Breakfast on Saturday 18^th March 2017, at the Bishop Mendes Auditorium, Harris Promenade, San Fernando.

Our guests were quite impressed with Guest Speaker, Brother Marc Samuel of the St. Paul’s Anglican Church, who addressed the audience on the topic “Be still and know that I am God.”

Renowned Gospel Singer, Sister Beverly Irish filled the atmosphere with worship by offering some stirring renditions of traditional gospel songs; while participants relished in the breakfast menu prepared by Les Bourgeois Catering Service.

DISTRICT GOVERNOR’S VISIT - District Governor 60A – Lion Nadine Bushell, had a wonderful experience of southern hospitality on Saturday 25^th March 2017.

The visit was planned in keeping with the audit of clubs and to address the Board of Directors and Members of the Lions Club of Les Efforts, Lions Club of Petit Morne and the Lions Club of San Fernando.

Her party comprised of Region Chairman IV, Lion Alicia Joseph-Ambrose and Zone Chairman IVB, Lion Gilbert Agard.

FISCAL YEAR 2017-2018

The Lions Club of Les Efforts started the fiscal year 2017-2018, with much verve and enthusiasm hinged on the President’s Theme “Eager to Serve”.

The Club’s two signature projects i.e. the Annual Vacation Fun Camp and the Scholarship Program for SEA students once again engaged the time and attention of members during the months of July and August.

The Annual Children’s Vacation Fun Camp was held at the La Romaine RC Primary School; and as the name speaks for itself; was two weeks of fun and games, art and music, sports and field trips.

Two students from 14 primary schools from within San Fernando and its environs received Cash vouchers valued at $800.00 each for the purchase of School Books and uniforms at the Keith Khan Bookstore. These children were successful in the SEA Examinations.

September saw Lion members engaging in the sale of Raffle sheets to ensure that the Club’s service projects can be financed. Three beautiful prizes were offered in return.

The 25^th Anniversary Thanksgiving was celebrated with a song mass at the Christ the King RC Church, San Fernando. A very touching sermon encouraged members to serve the less fortunate with a new passion and drive. The morning culminated with a sumptuous Brunch.

The Lions Club of Les Efforts partnered with His Worship the Mayor of the City of San Fernando, Alderman Junia Regrello to provide relief for our Caribbean brothers and sisters who suffered the effects of the recent natural disasters.

The International Association of Lions Clubs has asked Lions worldwide to place emphasis on children, since they will be the men and women of tomorrow.

To this end, World Literacy Day was celebrated at the St. Peter’s Private Primary School, Pointe a Pierre. Sixty-three children were exposed to a time of reading, which gave an ideal opportunity for the students to express themselves and boost their imagination.

October is recognized as World Sight Month and with this is mind Vision Screening was conducted on all students of the San Fernando Methodist Primary School, Mon Chagrin Street, San Fernando, and the Marabella South Secondary School.

Value Optical took delight in responding positively to our request for their assistance and gave yeoman service to this project. Two children were identified for “follow up eye care”.

World Diabetes Day – November, promises to be a fulfilling day for the students of Mayo RC Primary School. Les Efforts Lions and a Team of Medical Professionals will again reach out to some of the Nation’s children. The students at this school will be privy to lectures on Diabetes Awareness, its prevention and control.

PARANG AND LIME - The Annual Parang and Lime which was held on Sunday 19th November, was another sauccessful project of the Lions Club of Les Efforts. It was an ideal occasion to help patrons start the festive season, with live parang bands, delicious food and lots of entertainment.

Once again, it was a delight to bring Christmas joy to children of the Marabella Primary Government School. It was an afternoon of games, bouncy castle, snacks, toys and treat bags, all in an effort to make some children happier for 'tis the season to be jolly."

FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK - Lion Suzette Clarence

Board Members for the year 2018-2019

President - Lion Suzette Clarence
1st Vice President—Lion Heather Ovid
2nd Vice President—Lion Marlene White
Secretary—Lion Merle Roberts
Treasurer—Lion Ursula David
Tail Twister—Lion Annamay Haynes
Tamer—Lion Merle Waldron
Marketing Communication Chairperson—Lion Andy Charles Membership Chairperson—Lion Pamela Gittens
Service Chairperson—Lion Joanne Alexander
IPP/LCIF Coordinator—Lion Marcia Loney-Halls

Lion Suzette has been a member of the Lions Club of Les Efforts for over 10 years actively participating in club activities. Her theme as president suits her overwhelming participation throughout the years: “Upliftment Through Service” .

Goals set by her throughout her year of Presidency are as follows: -

To encourage camaraderie and team-spirit among members
To uphold and maintain a positive image of the club
To encourage effective communication including interper- sonal exchange as well as the use of technology
To encourage the membership to be creative and productive in all endeavours.

Congratulation Lion Suzette. Wishing you a very productive and uplifting year

PROJECTS 2018-2019

JULY 2018

Camp Lucky 2018 - Camp Lucky commenced on Monday 9th July 2018 and ended on Friday 20th July 2018. A total of thirty children registered for the camp. The children were engaged in a number of fun-learning activities such as drama, music dental hygiene, craft, sign language and lots more. A number of facilitators gave of their time and talent to engage the children. On Thursday 19th July, 2018, the children attended Nestle’ Summer camp at Nestle’ compound in St Joseph. There was a mini concert on the last day of the camp. The children sang, danced and recited a poem penned by a parent.

Scholarship Fund 2018 - Eight students were presented with a voucher valued $800.00 for the purchase of school supplies at Keith Khan Book store.

A total of nineteen parents and students as well as seven lion members were in attendance at the function. Guest speaker was Guidance Officer Mrs. Laurel Gould.

The award function took place on Saturday 14th July 2018 at the San Fernando Girls’ AC School.

SEPTEMBER 2018

The Les Efforts Lions partnered with the Hirschsprung Warriors of Trinidad and Tobago and the South West Regional Health Authority to host a Fun and Family Awareness Day This was to raise funds for corrective surgery for Kylon Simon, a 7 year old afflicted with the condition as well as raise awareness of the medical condition. Lion members conducted blood sugar testing for diabetes risk and blood pressure testing. Individual Counselling sessions were provided at this forum.

OCTOBER 2018

The Les Efforts Lions Club mounted a collection drive to assist citizens affected by floods. Losses in terms of personal belongings and other items were great. Our Club's relief effort comprised the collection and forwarding cases of water, clothing, food, and cleaning supplies to the Sangre Grande Regional Corporation to be distributed as needed.

Walk for Sight- Members of The Les Efforts Lions Club joined with the Lions of Trinidad and Tobago and the Lions Clubs worldwide to celebrate and recognize World Sight Day. The activity comprised a walk around the Queen’s Park Savannah and a much publicized Health Fair. Featured were lectures on the preservation of sight as well as vision screening.

NOVEMBER 2018

1^stNovember. The Les Efforts Lions Club made a monetary contribution of $700.00 toward District 60A and B joint Diabetes project. Monies collected were used to purchase testing kits for the diabetes associations in the various countries represented in the District 60.

14^thNovember– World Diabetes Day- The Les Efforts Lions club participated in their recently Sponsored Princes Town Central Lions Club’s Grand Health Walk and Fair. Activities included Display of health products, blood sugar testing, cholesterol testing, counseling and nutrition information.

15^thNovember - World Diabetes Day Activity -The Les Efforts Lions Club hosted a Diabetes Awareness Education Seminar at the St. John’s Anglican Primary school. Students, parents and teachers listened attentively to the very informative session. At this forum also blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure testing was done by a cadre of Lions health professionals. Man hours – 20 Cost attached $ 1,000.00 Persons served 120.

DECEMBER 2018

13^thDecember- Children’s Christmas Party - The Les Efforts Lions club brought Christmas cheer to the infant classes of the St. John’s Anglican School.

Students enjoyed playing in the bouncy castle and had their faces painted. Snacks were distributed as they sang Christmas songs. At the end of this enjoyable afternoon each student was presented with a present.

30 Man Hours, Cost attached - $8,000.00. Persons served 120

18^thDecember - Relieving Hunger - Members of The Les Efforts Lions Club prepared and distributed upward of 15 hampers to deserving families in the community of San Fernando and environs. Recipients expressed heartfelt thanks for this welcomed gesture.

15 man hours Cost attached - $3000.00.

20th December - Residents of the Mt. Paran Spiritual Baptist Senior Citizens Home were treated to a sumptuous Dinner. They also received Personal Care Packages.

January - School books and clothing were given to pupils of the Marabella Boy's and Girl's Anglican Schools. Man hours – 8 Cost - $2500

February - A Literacy Project was done at the Hardbargin RC School where their Library was facilitated with $3000 worth of school books.

Saturday 26th March, 2019 - The Lions Club of Les Efforts held its 9th Annual Lentern Breakfast and Reflections, at the Bishop Mendes Auditorium, Harris Promenade, San Fernando. Guest Speaker - Reverend Margaret Barker-Caesar of the St. Paul's Anglican Church addressed the audience on the President's theme "Upliftment Through Service". A sumptuous breakfast was served and live entertainment was provided.

March - The club participated in the District 60 Reading Action Project. Lion members visited several Primary Schools where they read stories mainly to the pupils of the Infant Department and Standards 1 & 2 classes.

April - Cash donations were given. Food hampers were given to deserving families.

Wednesday May 22nd 2019 - Two television sets and wall mounts were donated to the Children's Cancer Ward at the San Fernando General Hospital.

Tuesday 28th May 2019 - The Club partnered with the Environmental Management Authority in giving a detailed presentation on the environment to students of Anstey Memorial Girls' EC School. The Presenters focused on recycling waste material and preservation of the natural environment.

Wednesday 5th June 2019 - World Environment Day - Club members planted shrubs and hardy plants to enhance a portion of the San Fernando By Pass where the Lions Club of Les Efforts installed a "Lions Welcome Sign".

FISCAL YEAR 2019-2020

Scholarship Program - Seven students of the Pointe a Pierre Government Primary School benefitted from the Lions Club of Les Efforts Scholarship Program. Each student was presented with a Cash Voucher valued at $800 redeemable for school supplies at Keith Khan’s Book Store, Navet Road, San Fernando.

Vacation Fun Camp - The Annual Vacation Fun Camp was spearheaded by 1^stVice President Lion Gail Martin, with Lion Dawn Paul as second in command. The Principal, teachers and parents of the Pointe a Pierre Government Primary School were most pleased to partner with us in this project. A diverse Time Table, which covered 8^th– 19^thJuly 2019, saw the participation of 50 children engaging in lots of fun, games, activities and field trips, with many Lions and non Lions as Facilitators. Camp Theme: "I am the Difference."

World Youth Day - In observance of World Youth Day on 12^thAugust, which focused on education, we were also mindful of the slogan “Children cannot learn if they are hungry”. To this end food vouchers, school books and uniforms were given to two families, with each home housing six children between the ages 6 - 14.

Senior Citizens - Personal Care items were presented to the Mt. Paran Spiritual Baptist Home for Senior Citizens on Thursday August 29^th2019.

See our Facebook Page for photos of all projects