The upcoming holidays are taking our thoughts in many directions, and the Chandler Lions are very busy. There will be no regular meetings during December, although we will be assisting with numerous community activities, and interested individuals are encouraged to participate with us.

We express our appreciation to Myra Burkham, from Copeland's Drug, for the informative presentation at our last meeting regarding the use of Medicare, Medicaid, and supplemental insurance programs for payments for medical needs. We also recognize and thank Mrs. Martha Copeland for her donation of the Lion's vest from her father, Judge Winston Reagan. He was one of the founders of our Lions Club.

Several potential new Lions were welcomed, and we are always looking for more members. For details, please contact Pat Kambhu at 903-849-6355. The following dates are important upcoming events in our program schedule:

December 2, 10:00 a.m. Lions decorate a Christmas tree for the Chandler Nursing Center. Ruby Simons will chair this activity. For information, contact her at 903-849-6056.

December 8, 5:30 p.m. The Lions will have their annual Christmas party at Traditions Restaurant in Tyler. Please arrive by 5:30 p.m. with the program and celebration from 6:00- 8:00 p.m. A "Chinese Gift Exchange" will be part of the program, so bring a wrapped gift valued at no more than $10 for this fun event. Potential members are welcomed. We anticipate the attendance of some past and present District Governors.

December 19. Christmas Party at Chandler Nursing Center. Remember, the Christmas gifts for adopted residents are due prior to this date.

December 21-24 - Lion Volunteers will assist in preparing and delivering Food Baskets through God's Open Hands. To operate, this local charity relies on donations from individuals, local businesses, and civic organizations. All workers are volunteers with no paid personnel. This is truly local people taking care of their own. The only reason the organization is able to continue is because of community support.

Many of those seeking help are elderly people on small fixed incomes. Sometimes they have to make a choice between buying food or buying much needed medicine. Other clients include single parent households who cannot make ends meet without assistance. Whatever the situation, God's Open Hands seeks to help those in need.

Cash donations are critical to meet these needs. The contribution of each dollar can provide as many as eight meals. Your gifts can be made at either of the God's Open Hands locations, as well as through many local churches. You may also mail your contribution to P O Box 865, Chandler 75758. Thank you for caring about our community.