LIONS CLUB
Thomas the Tank was termed success
BY BILLY WATSON

Guests at the Nov. 1 Lions Club meeting were Betty Broussard, Eldon Earl Watson, Leland Acker plus Alicia Oliver from Jacksonville.

Lion Tim Timmons said the Leo Club volunteered to help with the Lions Club chili supper Nov. 9 at Rusk High School Cafeteria 9.

Program for the day consisted of Bob Goldsberry and Mayor Angela Raiborn. They said Thomas the Tank brought in 12,000 riders to Rusk. Approximately 20,000 people came to Rusk from 22 other states and Mexico. At least one-third of the people had never been to East Texas before. They kept saying how beautiful it is and how friendly the people are. The crowds that enjoyed the square were so numerous it was like the old days. There were no parking spaces around the square and the streets were lined with people. The merchants all benefited. The points of interest for these people were the long 526 foot historic footbridge, the Heritage Center of Cherokee County and the Singletary Memorial Library. They filled the hotels and motels. They had no idea that large towns like Tyler, Lufkin, Nacogdoches, Palestine, Henderson and Jacksonville were all less than 45 minutes away. Bed and breakfast facilities certainly benefited. Bob said he parked cars for six straight hours but it was a pleasant experience. There were four shuttle buses which did not cost the city any money for usage.

Rusk is now looking forward to the Polar Express which will operate out of Palestine but will still bring numerous people to Rusk.

President Vic Whadford recognized guests at the Nov. 8 meeting. They were Steve Simmons and Boots Burfoot.

Bobbie Burch informed all Lion members to contact her if they are volunteering to work at the concession stand Saturday, Nov. 10 at Derby Daze at the Rusk Intermediate School.

Winner for the most chili supper tickets sold was Evelyn Stewart with 116 tickets for a total of $580. She received a crystal clock from Mr. Whadford.

Ann Brown was in charge of the chili cook-off Thursday night at the Birmingham nursing home kitchen which began at 6:30 p.m. Lions participating in the cook-off were Ms. Stewart, Ms. Burch, Charlie Burfoot, James Campbell, Mr. Whadford and Billy Watson. Boots Burfoot was also present.

The chili recipe came from Dan West.