(Picture Source: Madisonville Lions Club/Facebook)
The Madisonville Lions Club held its 2025–2026 officer installation last week, recognizing several members for outstanding service.
Club officials reported a strong turnout, expressed gratitude to outgoing president Mike Kelly for his leadership, and officially welcomed Lawrence Swingler as the new president for the upcoming term.
Officials extended a special thank you to guests James Maxberry and Shannon Bellis from the Hopkins County Jail for coordinating the crew that assists with Pancake Day setup and takedown. They expressed their deep appreciation for the ongoing support from the Hopkins County Jail.
The Club announced the officers for the 2025–2026 term are:
President: Lawrence Swingler
1st Vice President: Dana Weaver
2nd Vice President: Crystal Carlton
3rd Vice President: Melissa Taylor
Secretary: Bob Moberly
Treasurer: Wally Hardy
Tail Twister: Jordan Coomes
Membership Director: Lauren LeGrand
Eyesight & Kidsight Directors: Wally & Ruth Hardy
Elected Directors:
Meredith Henninger, Kent Akin, Steve Faulk, Susan Wolford, Charlie Young, and Daniel Davis.
The Madisonville Lions Club also celebrated by presenting several well-deserved awards, including Cub of the Year to Melissa Taylor and Lion of the Year to Dana Weaver.
Ruth Hardy received the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award, a prestigious honor recognizing more than 20 years of dedicated service and outstanding humanitarian contributions to the ideals of Lionism.
Melissa Taylor was honored with the Finis E. Davis Fellowship Award, recognizing her outstanding service and commitment to the club. This award is named in memory of Kentucky’s only Lions Clubs International President.
President’s Appreciation Awards went to Susan Wolford, Daniel Davis, Kent Akin, Kim Blue, Crystal Carlton, Bob Moberly, and Jim Allen. Outgoing President Mike Kelly said their efforts were key to the success of the Club this past year, and he is deeply grateful for their support.
Lions Club officials said they are looking forward to another great year of serving the community.
