King addresses Lion’s Club on Jan. 19

The Jan. 19 meeting was called to order by President Gloria Christopherson. Lion Howard Connors introduced his sister, Margaret Ann Marley, and her husband, Jerry, from South Bend, IN. Guest Steven Heer of Vermillion was introduced by Lion Curt Robinson. Lion Ron Thaden related that the Vermillion Club has purchased four new tables, which will be stored at the National Guard Armory and used during spring and fall pancake days.

Members were reminded by Lion Jack Doyle that volunteers will be needed to help with pancake preparation on Thursday, Feb. 9, Member Appreciation Day, Vermillion Clay-Union facility. Lion Christopherson announced that Wal-Mart will be presenting a check at their new facility to the Vermillion Lions Club on Tuesday morning (7:15 a.m.), Jan. 31.

Members wishing to obtain a new vest were advised by Lion Marion Kryger to talk with him in the near future as an order for at least 12 new vests is about to be placed.

The speaker for the evening, Bruce King, assistant vice president/campus diversity officer, University of South Dakota was introduced by Lion Doyle. Bruce arrived at USD in March, 2005. He emphasized that the university is essentially pledged to form an inclusive environmental setting. He believes that such a setting is important to all university community members in order to appreciate their interrelatedness and ultimately to enhance many aspects of teaching and learning.

He also feels that USD has a responsibility to provide opportunities for Native Americans because of the presence of the Northern Plains Indians in this area. Bruce concluded his talk by reminding all present that Mr. Fred Gray, Esq. will speak at the 2006 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Lecture and Awards Celebration, Farber Hall, 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 16.