This last weekend, the Torrington Lions Club hosted 50 Lions and guests at the Wyoming District 15 State Lions Convention. Amy Bomgardner was elected as First Vice District Governor for 2025-26 and will serve as District Governor in 2026-27. Bomgardner was also awarded a prestigious Melvin Jones award for her leadership in Lions. Weekend activities included a live and silent auction which was open to the public at the Open Barrel Brewery Friday night. All proceeds were donated to the Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp on Casper Mountain to help fund summer school for the visually impaired. City of Torrington Mayor Herb Doby welcomed the Lions at the Lincoln Community Complex for various board meetings and learning opportunities. The president’s banquet was catered at the local Elks Lodge. The Convention also hosted the Rocky Mountain Eye Bank board annual meeting. Some of the local merchants also participated in a Poker Walk down Main Street Friday afternoon for attendees. The Lions International motto is “We serve”. The Torrington Lions enjoy participating in local service projects and eyeglass and eye surgery grants. Lions International and local clubs also play an integral part in disaster assistance. The Torrington Lions Club is always welcoming new members and new service opportunities.

Lion Melvin Gabel and wife Nita Gabel pictured with Lions International Director Marie Cummings, Past District Governor Val Grant and Past International Director John Harper. Mel Gabel was one of three Lions members to be inducted into the Wyoming Lions Hall of Fame at recent Lions Convention hosted by Torrington Lions Club this past weekend. Inductees were chosen by a committee based on long term service to their club, community, and State Lions organization. Three Lions are inducted every three years. Lion Gabel was a long-time educator in Torrington. He was a member of the Torrington Lions Club for 38 years and was instrumental in inviting women into the Torrington Lions Club, as well as assisting with the eyeglass program and Miss Merry Christmas. He also helped host two previous Conventions in Torrington and always enjoyed attending and serving at other State Conventions. Lion Gabel was nominated by Past District Governor Val Grant and the Torrington Lions Club for his many years of selfless service to our community, state and the International Order of Lions.