The Boothbay Region Lions Club closed out our 2012-2013 year in style with not one, not two, but three big events.

First on the list was the regular Red Cross blood drive at the YMCA. This event on June 6 brought 62 donors, ably assisted by a whole pack of Lions. Thanks to all who came and donated and volunteered their time.

Second was our amazing 60th anniversary party on June 8. This event, which was free and open to the public attracted quite a few friends and neighbors, who stopped by for food and dancing to the music of Tim Sprague and the Murky Water Band.

As a central part of the festivities, charter member Harry Pinkham received a special commemorative pin celebrating his 60 years and a Lion. Also in attendance was Senator Chris Johnson, who stopped by to read a state proclamation commemorating our six decades of service to the community.

Last but not least was our final regular meeting of the year. So many people turned up for our annual awards night on June 12 that we had to rush and set up another table so we would have enough seating. Chef Amy Ronan returned to prepare a feast in the kitchen and we had more than a dozen spouses and other guests join us.

We opened the evening with an induction ceremony for our three newest members (John and Lynn Perreault and Dennis Dolan). Outgoing president Jennifer Hyson also offered thanks to the many members who contributed this year. Ken and Joyce Dinnar shared the award for Rookie of the Year for their enthusiasm and help.

Alan Tilton received the President's Award for his ever-present assistance at every level of the club. Susie Giles, who organized our 60th anniversary party and the visit from Santa this past Christmas, received the Lion of the Year award, as voted by our members.

Before she left office, president Jennifer Hyson praised the hard work and great contributions of our members. "We've really come alive this year," she said, before handing the gavel over to next year's president, her father Mike Giles.

That's it for the Lions for the summer, but we'll see you again in September as we start our 61st year. Meanwhile, for more information on the Boothbay Region Lions Club, please contact any Lion, find us on Facebook, or visit at www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/boothbay/index.php/.