This autumn has been busy for the Santa Monica Pacific Palisades Lions Club members.
The September meeting was filled with celebration and community spirit. Members gathered to wish Kathy Boole and Brian Ransom a happy birthday and enjoyed an engaging presentation from Micah Akerson, Community Relations Manager for the Santa Monica Department of Recreation & Arts.
Micah’s slide presentation highlighted the many ways the department enriches life in Santa Monica. Through social, cultural, and recreational programs, Recreation & Arts helps connect neighbors of all ages. From sports and aquatics at the Santa Monica Swim Center to youth activities at the Cove Skatepark, adult sports leagues, camps, and classes, there’s something for everyone. To learn more, go to their website: santamonica.gov/departments/recreation-and-arts
He also shared a look at Santa Monica’s 150th anniversary celebration, taking place July through December 2025. The anniversary programs reflect on the city’s history of innovation in art, culture, sports, technology, architecture, and environmentalism—while also looking ahead to the future.
In October we focused on club business, but the highlight of the evening was Brian’s craft talk — a tradition where members share their personal journeys with the club. It is always a pleasure to learn more about our fellow Lions. Even our longtime members continue to surprise us with new stories and experiences we’ve never heard before.
In addition to our speaker, Service Chair Brian reviewed the many projects our Lions will take part in over the coming months:
- Westside Food Bank 5K Hunger Walk – November 2 at Ocean View Park
- Santa Monica YMCA Healthy Aging Fair – November 17 at the Santa Monica YMCA
- Salvation Army Bell Ringing – December, at Bristol Farms in Santa Monica (date to be announced)
These projects reflect the Lions’ mission to serve our community and make a difference where it’s most needed. If you want to join us, please reach out to Brian at smpplionsclub@gmail.com to get more details.
If you’d like to be part of this active, welcoming group, we’d love to meet you! Join us at our next dinner meeting on Wednesday, November 5th at the Elks Lodge, 1040 Pico Blvd. (near 11th Street, with free parking in the adjacent lot). Please RSVP by contacting Kingsley Fife at 310-367-2679 or smpplionsclub@gmail.com.
Come see what Lions are all about—you might find yourself inspired to join us in service and fellowship!