Lions: more than recycling

Long-time Lions member Steve Erway and newcomer Linda Karija were on duty Saturday at the recycling center in Coudersport. Proceeds from the sale of aluminum cans and donations at the center support the club's community service activities.

Tons of garbage that would otherwise be fouling the environment is instead diverted back into the marketplace, thanks to the efforts of the Coudersport Area Lions Club.

"Recycling is our most visible public service," said Steve Erway, the local bank manager who was instrumental in starting the program many years ago.

On Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to noon, a steady parade of cars and trucks passes through the recycling center, off Damascus Road near the Coudersport Industrial Park, to drop off aluminum cans, clear and brown glass, plastic, newspapers and cardboard.

There are some public misconceptions about the recycling program, Erway said.

"The only materials which generate any revenue for the Lions Club are aluminum cans," he explained. "The other items are accepted mainly to reduce the amount of garbage going to the landfill."

Cameron County Ministerial Assn. is coordinating the annual Salvation Army Kettle Campaign. Here, Rev. Rock Pifer rings the bell as Don Kerr makes a donation. The ministerium is recruiting volunteers to continue the collections through the holiday season. Anyone who would like to help should contact Rev. Scott Melott at First Baptist Church.

For that reason, Lions Club volunteers encourage those who use the service to make a donation to the small collection box located next to the collection bins. Recyclers can also make the volunteers' work easier by separating the items and making sure containers are clean before bringing them to the center.

Many people are unaware of the full range of community services provided by the Lions Club, Erway added. The organization financially supports vision assistance for the needy, Special Olympics, American Red Cross, youth activities, Make A Wish Foundation and other worthy causes.

New members are needed to lessen the load being carried by the faithful Lions Club volunteers. Lou and Linda Karija and Jack and Kathy Marshall were recently inducted into the club.

Membership information is available from Steve Erway and Lou Karija.