Lion Carl Buncamper (left) handing over the Life Membership Certificate to Lion Carmen Harriet Simmons (sitting at right), with Lion President George Wilson (standing at right).
SABA--The Saba Lions Club held a Life Membership Award ceremony at Eugenius Johnson Center in Windwardside on Wednesday, December 9, during which Lion Carmen Harriet Simmons was symbolically recognised for her long-time and dedicated service to the Lions Club.
Simmons also received a certificate in her honour. The Life Membership Award is only granted by the International Association of Lions Clubs to Lions who have maintained active membership for 20 or more years and have rendered outstanding service to the club and the community.
Simmons is highly regarded by Saba’s Lions Club and the Lions district for her years of involvement. She has displayed commitment in supporting various projects and activities for the betterment of Saba. Projects that are of special interest to her are those that affect the youth and the elderly of Saba, as she is one of their greatest advocates.
“Lion Carmen” is also a cultural icon of Saba, as it was she who put Saba on the map when it comes to celebrating Carnival.
“We have seen her involvement teaching our children the art of music, her piano lessons, and her lifelong dedication to her church, where she has been the organist for more than 75 years. I can also attest to the fact that Lion Carmen also relishes a good joke,” Lion Franklin Wilson shared with the audience.
Simmons started her long history with the Lions when she became a member of the Saba Lioness Club. It did not take her long to become a major contributor to the Saba Lions Club, holding the positions of vice-president, president and chairwoman of various committees.
“There is no ‘self’ in Lions and the Lions Club works like a family together to do the things needed in the community where the government doesn’t find enough money,” Master of Ceremonies Wilson stated.
