A heartwarming evening of celebration and community pride took center stage on Monday, May 19, as the Iola Lions Club hosted its annual Honors Night, spotlighting years of service, outstanding scholarship recipients, and future community initiatives. The gathering took place at the Iola Lions clubhouse, drawing local members, scholarship honorees, and guests for a night filled with recognition and purpose.

The highlight of the event was the recognition of scholarship recipients supported by Lions and Lions Club members Mark and Terry Doll. Seven exceptional students were honored for their achievements and promise: McKenzie Bonikowske, Baylee Donovan, Burkley Myers, Jordan Sullivan, Ryan Kampert, and sisters Jessica and Bethany Schmoldt. These students were awarded scholarships to support their continuing education, reflecting the Lions’ commitment to fostering youth and leadership.

Longtime members were also honored with Chevron Awards, commemorating significant milestones in their service to both the local community and the broader mission of Lions International. The recipients included: Lion Keith Williams – 45 years, Lion Scott Bestul – 35 years, Lion Dan Tap – 25 years, Lion Mike Mazemke – 25 years, Lion George Cuhaj – 20 years, Lion Ralph “Can Man” Bostwick – 20 years, and Lion Mark Sether – 20 years.

In a particularly special moment, Lion Norm Mortenson was applauded for an extraordinary 55 years of service, earning resounding applause from the attendees.

The evening also included an announcement of generous charitable giving. Lion Sandi Moore, alongside community donors, raised nearly $400, which will be donated to the Fox Valley Lions Medical Equipment Loan Locker, a vital program supporting community health.

The following were officially named as new officers for the upcoming 2025–26 Lionistic year: President Chris Nelson, 1st Vice President Diana Jones, 2nd Vice President Mark Sether, and Past President Karen Thulien.

Looking ahead, the Iola Lions are preparing for a busy season of service with several key events: May 31, 1st Brat Fry at Iola Sentry; June 4, Red Cross/Lions Blood Drive; June 16, Iola Car Show Work Night; June 18, Chet Krause Park Maintenance; Date TBD, Iola River Walk Bridge Project; July 10-12, The Annual Iola Car Show; and, July 19, Lions Brat Fry at Iola Sentry.

The Honors Night not only celebrated the past but also lit the path forward, reinforcing the Lions Club’s enduring mission: “We Serve.”