Local History

Sponsored by the Salmo and Trail Clubs, Castlegar-Selkirk Lions Club was chartered January 23, 1971. Two of the charter members, Walter Holuboff and Moe Zibin, are still members today. I wonder if they really had any idea what lay ahead for them.

The maiden venture was a two-minute shopping spree at Super Value, followed shortly by involvement with the first Day-care centre in Castlegar, Hobbit Hill - still in existence today. They got involved in Pass Creek Park by doing some clean-up and putting in a water well.

More parks, bowling greens, park benches, and cross-country ski trails left their permanent marks on the geography.

Snowmobile events, rodeos, trades fairs, . . . Can someone holler BINGO? . . . flea markets. These were all projects of the club over the 40 years to come. Did I forget the R.C.M.P Musical Ride? These were the high points. I’m sure we have neglected many others (sorry).

Some of these projects and events still exist in one form or another. The Pumping Gas for Kids Event is a 15 year old tradition. You will still see us flippin' burgers several times a year. In 2011 we took on the responsibility of the Annual Skate-A-Thon and reinvented it to be the more inclusive Move-A-Thon. Beneficiaries have been Habitat for Humanity and the Special Olympics as well as several local charities designated by participants. Visit our Club Projects page as well as our Calendar and Photo Gallery for more details.

We are proud to be ongoing sponsors to The Easter Seal House and Timmy’s Telethon. Locally, recent projects include a water wheel chair for the Recreation Centre, assistance for medical emergencies and relief in times of hardship. It is so rewarding when two Lions give each other ‘the look and the smile’ followed up with, “That’s why I’m a Lion” when we witness first-hand the impact we have made in someone’s life.