Newport Lions Club

Newport Lions Club. The Service Club in American Life. , During the first two decades of the 20th Century, a new type of business and social association developed in the nation. Generally founded in the mid-west, these clubs promoted good citizenship, civic benevolence and ethical business practices. They took such names as the Lions, Rotary, Civitans, Optimists and Kiwanis, organizations which continue into the 21st century. , In February 1938, twenty-five men established the Newport Lions Club. Within months, the membership doubled under the leadership of its first president, Stanley G. Fickes, local coal dealer. Clubs soon were founded in Millerstown, Duncannon, New Bloomfield and Liverpool. In the early 21st century, Perry County had ten Lions Clubs. , Immediately, the Newport club became a source of public good, funding welfare agencies, outfitting children at Christmas and urging civic improvements. , Interestingly, club leadership also stressed that, "The darkened condition of the Newport bridge is not conducive to creating a high moral status of those who walk or loiter on the bridge." This publicized concern led the local light company to place four, 250-candle-power lights on the 1934 steel Juniata River Bridge! , To raise funds that first year, the club filmed a moving picture of the daily life of members, a novelty at the time. The Lions then charged 50 cents to view the film, enjoy a vaudeville show, and dance to the music of the 'Scamps of Swing'. , Of national note, in 1925, the sight and hearing-impaired Helen Keller challenged the Lions Clubs International Foundation to become 'Knights of the Blind'. Over the decades, members have raised millions of dollars for sight research and assistance. , Through the years, the Newport Lions Club has lived up to its service orientation by offering aid for recreation, parks, camps, scholarships and dozens of local projects and charities. In the 1950s, the club was a major contributor to establishing the Veterans Park. , As the economy soared after world war two, Lions clubs thrived with more diverse membership, including women. Today there are over 1,400 Lions Clubs internationally. Embracing the motto of 'We Serve', the Newport club continues to fund vital community programs. , [Captions:] , The 2017 Lions Club auction, an annual event since 1983., The annual Lions Club Halloween Parade., As this 2004 statement records, over the decades the Newport Lions Club has generously sponsored many civic organizations.