Karlene Laub has begun her year of service as president of the Upper Lehigh Lions Club.

She commended Immediate Past President Keith Bloss for a great year.

“We made over $42,000 this year and gave it all away,” Laub reported.

The Lions contributed to local fire companies, Northern Valley EMS, Northern Lehigh and Agape food banks, the Center for Vision Loss and Leader Dog for the Blind.

The club granted scholarships to four Parkland High School seniors and provided financial support for local families with special needs.

Other officers include: First Vice President Gus Dekrell, Second Vice President Ruthann Krause, Third Vice President Ron Smith, Secretary Ed Beishline, Treasurer Kevin Schmidt and Assistant Secretary-Treasurer Ron Gabel.

Connie Taschner serves as Lion Tamer and Val Rex is the tail twister. One-year directors are Tom Kern and Sharon Bartz. Two-year directors are Rich Wisser and Lou Albright.

The club also congratulates Henry Shankweiler and Robert Heintzelman who recently received Melvin Jones awards for their dedication to Lionism and service, which is the goal of the organization.