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The next Franklin Lions Club fundraiser is our 4th Annual Poker Run! This year's event will be held on Saturday, July 13th. The Poker Run begins and ends at Dowdle Mtn. Pitstop off the US 441 By-Pass near Chick-fil-A. Check-In is from 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

The Franklin Lions Poker Run is a bit different as any type of vehicle may enter. We do hold the event rain or shine!

Early registration is only $25.00 per vehicle and $30.00 the day of the event.

This year's cash prizes include:

1st Place - $300 donated by Dowdle Mtn. Pitstop
2nd Place - $200 donated by Zeus' Ridgecrest Automotive
3rd Place - $100 donated by Farm Bureau Insurance
Last Place - Entry Fee Returned

After you enjoy the great scenic ride we have planned this year, you can enjoy a Hot Dog Meal served with chips and drink for $7.00.

We hope you will make plans to join with us!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER ONLINE OR DOWNLOAD A FORM »

 

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TALLEY KINSLAND RECEIVES 2024 FRANKLIN LIONS SCHOLARSHIP

 

Talley Kinsland of Franklin High School was awarded the Franklin Lions Club's Annual Scholarship during the school's Annual Scholarship Night.

Talley will receive $1,000 per year toward her higher learning. Our congratulations and best wishes for continued success to Talley!

We also thank those of you that support our many fundraising efforts that make the Franklin Lions Annual Scholarship Program possible!

 

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HOWARD HAITHCOCK INDUCTED INTO NC LIONS HALL OF FAME

 

Howard Haithcock of Franklin, NC was posthumously elected to the North Carolina Lions Hall of Fame during the association’s 99th State Convention held April 27 to 30, 2023, in Greensboro, North Carolina.

“All who met Lion Howard would never think that this giant of a man had the compassionate heart that was the epitome of Lionism,” said District Governor Marilyn Wunderler. “His selfless service not only to his community but people across the State of North Carolina is immeasurable. We are proud to honor his contributions to Lions with his induction in the North Carolina Lions Hall of Fame.”

His son and member of the Franklin Lions Club, Pete Haithcock was on hand to accept the honor in his memory.

Haithcock joined the Franklin Lions Club in 1957 and held all offices and major project chairmanships within the club including president. He also held a perfect attendance record for over 30 years.

In 1967, he became the first District Governor to be elected from the rolls of the Franklin Lions Club for fiscal year 1967-1968. He was also elected to Chairman of the North Carolina State Council in Chicago in 1967.

Haithcock took the lead in what is now Lions District 31-L. Under his direction, operational improvements were made to Eliada Home in Asheville, the Marjorie McCune Center in Black Mountain and Camp Dogwood near Charlotte.

Under Howard’s leadership, the “white cane” program flourished as well as Special Olympics for handicapped children.

Lion Howard was always instrumental in eye screenings, assisting with the purchase of eye vans and sponsoring screenings throughout the community with local volunteer nurses.

Haithcock realized the importance of women as future club members and fully supported Lion Pat Shepherd from the Hendersonville club who became the first female club president in western North Carolina. He also mentored many club presidents and sponsored numerous club members inductions for the West district.

In recognition of his service to the association, he received numerous awards including the Melvin Jones Award, Jack Stickley Fellow, District Lion of the Year, 100% Governor’s Award and 100% Secretary from the late 1970’s through 1993.

Lion Howard Haithcock passed away in 2002 at 93 years of age having served as a faithful Lion for 43 years.

 

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FRANKLIN LIONS CLUB MONTHLY MEETINGS

 

The Franklin Lions meet the second and fourth Monday of each month at the Louisa Chapel Methodist Church Fellowship Hall at 6:00pm.

Directions: take 64 West. Louisa Chapel is the first left after you go through stoplight at Sloan Road. Stay on Louisa Chapel Road. When you pass September Embers Dr. on left church is on left ... 470 Louisa Chapel Road.