The first full week of the carnival is down and even though the weather brought its usual drama to our schedule, we were able to have three safe and fun-filled days at the carnival grounds. My hope is that the weather cooperates with us this week and that this year’s carnival is a truly successful one.

I know most of the community is aware that the Lions Clubs support vision needs in our community through vision testing and supplying glasses to children and qualifying adults. 

There are, however, a few other projects in which we utilize these funds.

One of our favorite times of the year is Christmas. Not only do we support the Salvation Army through their red kettle initiative, but we also assemble Christmas dinner baskets and deliver them to in-need families throughout the Orange community. Our members and their family members come out and lend a hand as we put these baskets together and hand-deliver them to appreciative families.

Our club members have also supported several handicap ramp projects in our area through the Texas Ramp Project. Even the unskilled people, like me, can have a part in constructing a ramp to help make a local resident’s life a little easier.

Our club has historically also provided scholarships to graduating area seniors who are in need of support to begin their college education.

You will also see our club members at the City Easter Egg Hunt preparing foods or meeting the anglers at sunrise with a snack bag at the fishing tournaments that visit our area.

The Texas Lions Camp in Kerrville, Texas also holds a special place in our heart. The camp provides summer camp programs for children with Type-1 diabetes, physical disabilities, and downs syndrome. Our members go each year and help maintain the grounds of the camp by trimming trees and other projects.

There are several other projects that we support each year as needs arise. This gives you just a small glimpse into what your support of the carnival helps us accomplish. It is truly a group effect and would not be possible without our community volunteering at the carnival and supporting it by bringing your families out. Thank you for what you do, which allows us to do what we do.

As of publication, the dates for the final week of the carnival are:

 

• Fri., Nov. 1, 6:30 p.m. – 11 p.m.
• Sat. Nov. 2, 6:30 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Dates and times are weather permitting. Tokens are $1 each. No entry fees.

 

Chris Kovatch is a resident of Orange County. You can reach him at news@orangeleader.com

 

EDITED: To update the times and entry fees for the carnival.