The carnival express will soon roll into Collins Field

All aboard the carnival train. The upcoming carnival, which is sponsored by the Millerton Lions Club, was the main topic of conversation as members gathered at American Legion Post 178 for dinner, conversation and other matters of importance on Wednesday, April 28. Papers have now been signed, sealed and delivered for the event to take place at Eddie Collins Field on Route 22 in Millerton from Thursday, June 10, through Sunday, June 13.

There will be games and rides, as well as a petting zoo. And let’s not forget everyone’s favorite, carnival food. Admission is free and ride tickets will be sold on site. American Legion Post 178, the Millerton Fire Department and “NASCAR� Dave MacMillan from the Sunday in the Country Food Drive have already committed to lending a hand. And, I am told, that Michael Arnoff of Arnoff Moving and Storage has recently offered their assistance, too. Here’s hoping that everyone will come out and enjoy themselves while showing their support for the Lions. There will even be 50/50 raffles and “bracelet� nights for the thrill seekers who don’t want the fun to stop.

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We had a good turnout for the evening as guest speaker Jesse Saperstein talked about his trials, tribulations and successes as an individual who “fell through the cracks� until his diagnosis with mild autism at the age of 14. His newly published book, “Atypical — Life with Asperger’s in 20 1/3 Chapters� has opened the eyes of many since being released in April. He has spoken to “standing room only� crowds and even returned to Barnes and Noble for a second time as they sold out of his book at his first book signing. What a good sign.

Jesse treated us to his unique sense of humor as well as to an inside look into what makes him tick. The book is available at Oblong Books and Music on Main Street in Millerton and I personally feel it’s a lot of bang for your buck. I believe the standing ovation Jesse received not only pleased him, but gave him proof of our appreciation. Good luck, Jesse, and congratulations on a job well done.

Our road-side cleanup on Saturday, April 24, was a resounding success, with good participation and quick results.Thanks to everyone who helped and hope to see you next time.

Lions President Todd Clinton announced Mike Rindsberg would not be renewing his membership after 20 years. Everyone present signed a card thanking him for his many years of service. He will be missed.

Scholarship committee chairman Ed Downey announced that we have 20 potential applicants this year. Much work is involved in the selection process and we wish everyone good luck, students and committee members as well.

Speaking of scholarships, our 11-month raffle to benefit our scholarship fund has begun. The first six winners were announced Wednesday, April 28. Congrats to the winners and to everyone holding tickets, good luck.There are still 60 more chances to win.

On the subject of beginnings, Sarah Hermans has our new Web site up and running. Just google Millerton Lions Club to find out what’s up. What a night for Lewis Saperstein. Not only was his son our guest of honor, but  Ellie Berman, a resident of New Jersey and Copake, N.Y.,was officially inducted as a member under his sponsorship. This latest accomplishment earned him a distinguished membership pin for sponsoring  four new members. And the numbers keep climbing. Keep up the good work, Lew.

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District Gov. Cliff Johns joined us for the evening, telling of many projects sponsored by the Lions in New York state from weekends at Camp Badger for veterans to diabetics to free screenings for vision and hearing.

Speaking of which — I want everyone to know there are free hearing screenings the first Saturday of every month at the Millbrook Health Center on Route 44 in Millbrook, from l0 a.m. to noon.The program is sponsored by the Lions of Dutchess County Hearing and Saint Francis Hospital. Appointments are not mandatory but are suggested. Call Paul Zitzlesberger at 845-889-8297 to schedule an appointment.                                                           

On a final note, the district governor distributed applications for enrollment in the “New York State Donate Life Registry� to those of us not previously registered. Quite honestly, I don’t belong to that group as I always thought when I have to leave here I want to take what’s mine with me. But, becoming a Lion has made me realize that our purpose is to serve; and what better way to do that than to help make someone’s life better even after we’re gone? It’s certainly food for thought.

‘Til next time …

Melanee Mayville has been a member of the Lions Club since 2008. She lives in Millerton with her husband, Dave, and their hand-me-down cat, Theory.             

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