The demise of the Dorchester Commercial Club which occurred early in 1956 brought about the birth of the Dorchester Lions Club. The last meeting of the Commercial Club that the writer could verify took place on March 22, 1956.
Jerry Radlinger was the last President elected and that election took place on November 10, 1955. All of the data contained within these writings are articles from the Dorchester Clarion Newspaper.
The Dorchester Clarion paper of May 31, 1956 had the following headline:
Organization of Lions Club for Village Planned
Three representatives of the Wisconsin Association of Lions Clubs were in the village Monday exploring the possibilities of organizing a Lions club for Dorchester. Harold Johnson, Adams, district governor; Tom Polnaczek, Thorp, zone chairman and S.A. Monsour, international representative and state secretary from Merrill, talked with a dozen or more local citizens and reported considerable interest among them favorable for the organization. Because of the interest shown, an organization meeting has been set for next Thursday night, June 7 at 8:00 o’clock in the Block Hotel. All persons in the community - village and surrounding area - interested in the welfare of the community; are invited and urged to attend the meeting and invited too, to become charter members of a local Lions club. The Thorp Lions, organized 25 years ago, is sponsor for the local organization campaign.
Secretary Monsour pointed out to local residents Monday that the Lions organization is the largest and most active service club organization in the world. As of April 30, this year, the Lions counted 542,000 members in 12,400 clubs in 75 countries on six continents. Lions objectives are to create and foster “generous consideration”; promote theory and practice of good government and good citizenship; an active interest in civic and commercial, social and moral welfare of the community; full discussion of matters of public interest and to encourage efficiency and promote high ethical standards in business and profession.
June 7, 1956 -- Lions Organization Meeting At Block Hotel Tonight
A meeting for the announce purpose of organizing a Lions club for Dorchester will be held in the Block Hotel dining room tonight (Thursday) at 8:00 o’clock. Those in charge have extended an invitation to all persons in the village and surrounding area who are interested in the welfare of the community, to attend the meeting. June 14, 1956 -- Lions Meeting At Hotel Tonight
Sixteen local persons Monday had applied for membership in a Dorchester Lions Club when it is organized and in a meeting to organize will be held in the Block Hotel tonight.
The meeting will open at 7:00 o’clock with dinner, with the business session scheduled to get underway at 8:00. S.A. Monsour, in notifying applicants of the meeting, emphasized that “It is most essential that every charter member attend this important meeting”. All persons of the village and surrounding community interested in the welfare of the community also are invited to attend the meeting. Those who cannot be present for the dinner are advised that they are welcome at the meeting to follow. At tonight’s meeting, it is planned to adopt constitution and by-laws, elect directors and officers and for that reason all who have declared intentions of becoming members are urged to attend.
June 21, 1956 -- Dorchester Lions Club Organized Last Thursday
Fifteen citizens of the village met in the Block Hotel dining room last Thursday night and organized the Dorchester lions Club. Jerome Radlinger was elected president of the new club: Bernard Johnson, first vice-president; L.D. Sorenson, second vice-president; Louis Sebold, third vice-president; M.S. Sorenson, secretary; Donald Sauter, treasurer; Elmer Krueger, lion tamer; Robert Rottier, tail twister; C.M. Vircks and W.P. Lehnetz, directors for two years; M.J. Weix and LaVerne Sauter, directors for one year.
S.A. Monsour, state secretary from merrill, was installing officer, and talked on the aims of the Lions organization. He cited that there were 12,400 Lions Clubs in 75 countries and welcomed wholeheartedly the local members into the family of over half a million members of Lions International, stating he deemed it a pleasure to share Lionism with you. The installing officer explained operation of a Lions club, the duties of officers and committees and the implementation of such duties in a talk following installation.
Charter Night — Harold Johnson, Adams, district Lions governor, spoke briefly to the meeting, stressing punctuality and cautioning against pessimism. He emphasized that pessimism had absolutely no place in the thoughts of Lions and urged that the club combat it among other members of the community. Tom Polnaczek and three other members of the Thorp Lions club, sponsors in the Lions organization for the local club, attended the meeting and gave tips on conduct of club affairs. Ray Purette, Spencer Lion and David Lehnetz also were guests at the meeting. Thursday, July 26 was set as the charter night meeting for the new Lions club, which now numbers 20 members and who settled upon 25 as charter membership. The second and fourth Thursdays of each month were chosen meeting nights and dues were set at $1.00 per month; including local, state and international payments. Members at the meeting were presented Lions charter membership pins following installation of officers.
The 20 members of the new Lions club are: Bernard A. Johnson, Elmer C. Krueger, Walter P. Lehnetz, Jerome L. Radlinger, Robert H. Rottier, Donald A. Sauter, LaVerne Sauter, David R. Schreiber, Louis J. Sebold, Richard L. Schattl, Gordon Schief, Lloyd D. Sorenson, Morris S. Sorenson, Clarence Vircks, Marzell J. Weix, Franklin J. Fritsche, James B. Richter, Albert Mertens, Dr. Alvin W. Schief and Rev. F.H. Sprengler. The last five members were unable to attend the organization meeting.
June 28, 1956 -- Lions Will Meet Tonight In Hotel Dining Room
The Dorchester Lions Club will meet in the Block Hotel dining room at 6:30 p.m. today (Thursday) for dinner with the regularly scheduled meeting set to follow. Except for charter night; July 26, it will be the last Thursday meeting for the club, if recommendations of the organization’s directors are adopted. The directors in meeting Thursday night of last week, voted to change meeting dates to first and third Mondays of each month, opening at 6:30 p.m. The first meeting at the date to be July 16. The board discussed various matters of club business and findings will be submitted at tonight’s meeting.
July 5, 1956 -- Lions Club Hears Talks By Visitors From Thorp Club
With three new members reported at Thursday night’s meeting of the new Dorchester Lions Club and three others having declared their intentions of becoming members of the club, the meeting voted to hold open charter membership in the club until charter night, July 28. New members are Ralph porter, Carl Mertens and Ray Gebert. All persons of the village and surrounding area interested in the welfare of the community are invited to become members of the club. Thursday’s meeting was held in the Block Hotel dining room, opening with dinner at 6:30 p.m. Jim Harycki, president and Tom Polnaczek of the sponsoring Thorp Lions Club were guests at the meeting and spoke briefly, emphasizing the importance of committee members giving full cooperation in furthering aims and projects of the club.
The membership approved a recommendation of the board of directors that the meeting date be changed to the first and third Mondays of each month; with the next meeting set for 6:30p.m. July 16, at the hotel. Other action of the board at a recent meeting was discussed.
August 2, 1956 -- Lions Club Chartered At Ceremonial Thursday
Lionism was officially launched in Dorchester last Thursday evening when Lawrence C. Jensen of Wausau, governor of Lions District 27C, presented the charter for Dorchester Lions Club to Jerome L. Radlinger, president. The presentation culminated organization activities which began here in late May and continued through June and July. The Thorp Lions Club sponsored the local organization.
Local club members, guests from neighboring communities and their wives were present for the charter night program and banquet in St. Louis parish hall. Guests came from Thorp, Medford, Adams, Merrill, Rib Mountain, Stevens Point, wausau, Schofield, Withee, Marshfield and Chippewa Falls. Members: — Charter members of the club total 34: Jerome, L. Radlinger, president; Bernard Johnson, L,D. Sorenson, Louis J. Sebold, first, second and third vice-presidents, respectively; M.S. Sorenson, secretary; Donald A. Sauter, treasurer; Elmer Krueger, Lion Tamer; Robert Rottier, Tail Twister; C.M. Vircks, W.P. Lehnetz, M.J. Weix, LaVerne Sauter, directors; Donald Albrecht, Franklin Fritsche, Raymond Gebert, Elmer Krueger, Albert Mertens, Fred Reynolds, Neal Smith, Clifford Wetterau, Connie Harrelson, Carl Mertens, Rev. Gerald Schuh, Martin H. Parsons, Ralph Porter, James B. Richter, Richard Schattl, Dr. A.W. Schief, David R. Schreiber, Gordon A. Schief, Herman Sebold, Melvin Knippel. Gov. Jensen, in his charter presentation talk, reminded the new lions of their responsibilities to their community and to their club. He lauded work of the Thorp lions Club which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary and said it had greatly influenced its community during the past quarter-century. He stated rewards were great in the satisfaction of achievement and urged all members of the new club to extend every effort to achieve success. Individ ual members of the Dorchester club were given recognition by Gov. Jensen as he made the presentation. Mr. Radlinger spoke briefly in response and acknowledgement of the presentation and pledged the cooperation of the new club with the ideals of Lionism. He also opened the meeting which began at 7:15 p.m. with 131 members and guests in attendance. The Rev. Gerald F. Schuh offered invocation and benediction prayers.
Speaker: — The Christian Mothers Society of St. Louis Parish served the banquet at which Fred R. Lewis of Stevens Point, a past governor and present international Lions counselor, was toastmaster. He introduced Harold Johnson of Adams, immediate past governor of District 27C who was featured speaker of the evening. Mr. Johnson discussed at length activities of Lions Clubs in Wisconsin with special emphasis on the most recent state project: a summer camp in Portage County for visually handicapped children. He described the 80 acre tract including a lake within its boundaries and said that the property which cost $18,000 initially was rapidly being developed. He pointed out that aid to the blind is one of the services of Lions, and that heretofore there had been no provision for summer recreation for the state’s visually handicapped.
The speaker also cited means by which local Lions may aid the blind and visually handicapped of their respective communities. He also discussed the recent international convention of Lions at Miami, Florida and reported that a Manawa resident, Clarence L. Sturn was there chosen a vice-president and would be elevated to head Lions International in 1959. Shafee A. Monsour of Merrill, state secretary and international representative of Lions, addressed welcome remarks to the gathering and briefly discussed the aims and purposes of Lionism.
September 20, 1956 -- Broom sale To Be Conducted By Lions Club
Eighteen members of the Dorchester Lions club were present at the regular semi-monthly meeting in the Legion hall Monday night. The meeting which opened at 7 p.m. with dinner concerned itself with discussion of plans for activities by the club and financing of those activities. Accordingly, plans were laid for a canvass of the village with a broom sale on next meeting night. Teams of two members each will be assigned sections of the village to carry on the house-to-house canvass. Starting at about 6:30 p.m. Following the canvass; dinner and meeting will be held. The brooms now are on sale at several business places.
Arnold Cook was appointed chairman of a committee to plan a Halloween party for the young people the night of Oct. 31. He outlined for members a program to include movies and games with prizes for those attending.
Phone Booth: A letter from D.E. Peterson, president of the Midway Telephone Company with the information that an outdoor booth for the village is planned, was read. It was a reply to a petition by the club that such installation be made. The letter requested suggestions as to location for such booth and it was pointed out that Richard Schattl had offered space on his Block Hotel property. The company plans to put the booth in at the time of the dial phone installation, sometime in November. A discussion also was held relative to holding a turkey shoot or similar activity, resulting in appointment of a committee to explore chances for staging such event here.
September 27, 1957 -- W.R. Munroe Feted At Meeting Of Lions Club
Four guests and 12 members attended Monday night’s meeting of the Dorchester Lions Club in Legion hall. The meeting, at which William Munroe who will move to California next week, was guest of honor, opened with dinner at 7 p.m. Other guests were the rev. Harold Welch and two members of the Medford Lions Club, W.R. Kramer and Robert Dettmering. Called upon to speak, Mr. Munroe briefly reviewed his sentiments toward the community, expressed a certain regret at leaving and concluded with the statement that Mrs. Munroe had been reluctant to move here in 1908 and that they had agreed that the next move would be to California.
The club discussed a ladies night meeting and set the date for the meeting nearest Valentine’s day as an appropriate time. Committees were charged with again producing a Halloween party this Oct. 31 and it was suggested that plans be made for a later activity for the older youths of the community.
April 23, 1959 -- M.S. Sorenson Is Elected President Of Lions Club
At the annual election, held a bit early this year, the Dorchester Lions Club named a slate of officers headed by M.S. Sorenson to the several positions at the head of the club. Other officers are Elmer Genrich, M.J. Weix and Fred Reynolds, first, second and third vice-presidents respectively; Herman Sebold, secretary; Fred Reynolds, treasurer; Alfred Hinke, Lion tamer; Adolph Gorke, tail twister; C.M. Vircks and Elmer Krueger, directors. All officers were elected by acclamation when opposing nominees for president, secretary and treasurer declined nominations which had been made previously by a nominating committee.
Twelve members and a visitor, Arthur Lindner of Medford, attended the meeting which opened with dinner at 7 p.m. in Legion Hall. Lion Lindner, Medford depot agent, informed the meeting that an excursion train was planned for the Spencer-Ashland run if enough fares to pay the costs were sold. The excursion is being run to provide a train ride for those desiring it. Interested persons may contact Robert Rottier or Alfred Hinke. The gathering was informed also that Elmer Krueger, outgoing secretary, had been cited by state and national Lions organizations for punctuality and accuracy of his reports. President Vircks reported that Warden Kenneth Coyle had told him that fish will be planted in the village pond in May or June, to provide angling sport for youngsters. The clinic project was discussed also with results reported elsewhere.
May 21, 1959 -- Lions Club Will Put Scotchlite On All Bicycles
The Dorchester Lions Club Monday night voted to conduct a campaign to put “scotchlite” reflecting material on every bicycle in the community at a safety meeting to be held in connection with the next regular meeting of the club, which will be Monday June, 1.
All bicycle owners of the village and surrounding trade area are requested to bring their wheels to the Legion hall on that evening (June 1) at 7:00 o’clock, at which time Lions Club members will furnish and affix the reflecting material. A traffic officer has agreed to deliver a talk on safety to the wheel-owners while the work is being done. He will stress the importance of safety habits and rules of the road, how bike-riders are affected and their responsibilities in traffic. The Lions will have their dinner at 6:45 that evening and hurry meeting routine to the end that youth be served with dispatch.
Surfacing: Twelve members attended Monday night’s meeting which opened with the usual dinner and covered a variety of subjects. Clifford Wetterau, village president, reported he had assurance that village streets would be surfaced this summer. The high mortality rate among trees planted last year along Highway “A” received attention and M.S. Sorenson and Donald Albrecht were appointed a committee to see if at least partial replacement could be secured from the supplier.
It was reported that all is in readiness for the village fish pond and Lion Albrecht reported receipt of fishing line to be used as prizes in contests planned for the summer. The club voted to sponsor a blind person at the Lions blind camp, sending the fee (about $30) to the state organization for disbursement.
August 6, 1959 -- Lions Club Plans Fiesta For Village Sunday, Aug. 16
Members of Dorchester Lions Club have laid plans for a Charcoal Chicken Fry and sporting events to be held in the village Sunday, August 16. Monday night’s business meeting of the club was given over to the planning, which is lead by Donald Albrecht, Fred Reynolds and Lloyd Carlson, president of the club. The first named two made arrangements for the frying of chicken and upon the go-ahead from the club have secured the services of a firm which specialized in that work. The chickens will be served in half portions with a variety of potatoes, salad or chips, or similar food. It was reported to the meeting that the fryer will set up his own charcoal pit for the preparation and he guarantees all his fowl to be cooked done. The Lions Club members now are conducting an advance ticket sale, at $1.25 per adult portion of half chicken and smaller servings for children at 75 cents. Along with the chicken fry, arrangements are being completed for the Clark County horseman’s group to stage a horse show and there also will be games for the youngsters.
The horse show has been a crowd-pleaser throughout the area this and past summers and the Lions feel that it will present entertainment to please all who attend the local fiesta.
Fifteen Lions Club members attended Monday night’s meeting which opened with dinner at 7 p.m. A quartet of Thorp youth sang several selections after the meal at which they were guests. Also guests at the meeting were three Lions members from Thorp; Marvin Vircks, Gilmer Bowe and Arthur Mayer. Members expressed a measure of disappointment at the high mortality rate among fish recently stocked in the village pond. It was thought that there were too many fish and that they were improperly handled between netting at Marshfield and dumping here.
President Carlson named service committees for the coming year and ordered the reinstitution of “farmer friends night” at which two members bring a farmer friend to each meeting; with Elmer Genrich and L.D. Sorenson to do so for the first September meeting. The September meeting was set for Tuesday Sept. 8 because the regular meeting time is Labor day.
August 13, 1959 -- Entertainment To Feature Charcoal Chicken Fry Here
Succulent chicken, cooked to just the right turn over hot charcoal embers is promised all who partake of Dorchester’s first annual Charcoal Chicken Fry, scheduled for the park on Front Street, Sunday August 16. Serving will begin at 11:00 a.m. and continue until all have eaten.
Members of Dorchester Lions Club, which is sponsoring Sunday’s event guarantee that the chicken will be fully cooked and emphasize that the guarantee means what it says – cooked done. The chicken fry is only part of Sunday’s program as announced by Lloyd Carlson, Lions Club President, releasing committee reports today, which include plans for an afternoon of entertainment. Clark County Riders, Inc., a group of horsemen and horsewomen on their mounts will feature a parade scheduled for 2:15 p.m. on Front Street and following the equestrians will be a bicycle parade and doll buggy parade for the younger set. All youngsters are invited to enter these sections of the parade. And the committee in charge, still working on the event, will have added features by Sunday. Entertainment plans today provide for a tug-of-war between Town of Mayville and Town of Holton men with undisclosed prizes. And so the men will not be burdened with the full entertainment program, a nail driving contest is being arranged for the women. There will be games and contests for the boys and girls too; and without doubt, the work of the entertainment committee will produce more activities by the time Sunday arrives.
Promising fun for the whole family, the sponsor invites everyone in the community and surrounding territory to Dorchester Sunday afternoon, for good eating and good entertainment.
August 20, 1959 -- Hundreds Visit Village For Sunday’s Fiesta
Approximately 500 meals of charcoal fried chicken were served visitors to the village Sunday, as they came to partake of the Dorchester Lions Club first annual charcoal chicken fry. Many other visitors from the surrounding area came to witness the parade and games which were run for entertainment during the afternoon.
Lions Club members, headed by President Lloyd Carlson, expressed satisfaction for the success of the event and extended thanks and appreciation to all who came for making it the success it was. Town of Mayville men won the featured tug-of-war from a segment of Dorchester’s male population who subbed in for Town of Holton men who failed to appear for the event. The visitors enjoyed a case of beer as a reward for their efforts. It is thought the success would have been even greater if harvesting hadn’t kept many farmers in the fields.
Clark County Riders, Inc. To the number of about 40, featured the parade held during the afternoon. Here again, it was reported that more of Clark county’s organized equestrians would have participated but for harvest work interfering with their attendance. Decorated bicycles led the parade, followed by girls and their dolls and buggies, with prizes awarded those judged best. There were also a number of foot races and special events run during the fiesta. These, however, were spontaneously conceived, hurriedly organized, and informally run. Hence no record was kept of the winners nor of the events themselves and there were no results for publication.
All concerned were satisfied at day’s end that a fine afternoon’s entertainment had been had and even those who worked hardest were resolved to produce similar affairs within the near future.
Nov. 5, 1959 -- Dorchester Lions Club Will Be Host at Zone 1 Initiation
The lateness of the season was illustrated Monday night when the Dorchester Lions Club started plans for the annual Santa Claus Day for Dorchester. M.S. Sorenson was appointed solicitor of funds for the event, traditionally shortly before Christmas and Donald Albrecht, L.D. Sorenson and Arnold Cook were appointed to the committee on arrangements.
Richard Hurth and Richard Polnaszek of Abbotsford were announced as new members among the 19 assembled for the meeting which opened with dinner at 7 p.m. M.J. Weix, Jerome Radlinger and Lloyd Carlson were appointed a committee to act for the club in its afflilate-membership of the Memorial Hospital of Taylor County. Arnold Cook reported on the Halloween parade and party.
Zone Initiation — Jerome Radlinger, chairman of Zone 1 of District 27C, announced the zone initiation of new members had been accepted and that the initiation would be held in legion hall Monday night, Nov. 9. That also will be the second November meeting of the local club, moved up from Nov. 16 because the latter date falls in deer hunting season.
Twelve or thirteen new members will be initiated, including three from the local club. The governor of District 27C, Gust Hammerlie of Wausau, is expected for the initiation meeting; as well as other district and possibly state officers of the organization. Clubs comprising zone 1 of District 27C are Dorchester, Prentice, Ogema, Medford, Thorp, Gilman and Withee. Each is expected to be represented by president and secretary at Monday’s meeting.
November 5, 1959 -- Community’s Youths Enjoy Halloween Party
Over 170 children and young people of the community were guests of the Dorchester Lions Club at a Halloween party in Peace church hall Saturday night, Oct. 31. The program opened at 7 o’clock with the showing of a number of motion picture cartoons and included the giving of awards by Lion President Lloyd Carlson for prize winning costumes in the parade held Saturday morning. Every guest also was given a bag of treats.
November 12, 1959 -- Lions Joint Initiation Held Here Monday
Thirteen members from three visiting clubs participated with Dorchester Lions Club at a Zone 1 initiation of new members in Legion hall here Monday night of this week. The initiation climaxed the zone’s activities in a membership drive and eight were initiated members of four clubs at ceremonies conducted by Gust Haemmerle of Wausau, governor of Lions District 27C. New members are Richard Polnaszek of Abbotsford, Richard Hurth and Gilmer Bowe, Dorchester; Leander Schneider and Arnold Wajerski, Gilman; Wayne Haima and Donald J. Berns, Thorp; Don Christensen of Withee.
Visitors: Other visitors present were Al Van Der Heuvel and Daniel Boone of Gilman, Dick Plansky and Tom Polnaszek of Thorp, Myron Fritsch of Withee, Delbert Huss and Ray Galpeau, Sr. Of Merrill and Dist. Gov. Haemmerle of Wausau. Twenty members of the local Lions club attended the meeting which began with dinner at 7 p.m. The meeting was the regular meeting of the club moved up from Nov. 23 to avoid a conflict with deer hunting but the business session was dispensed with to permit transaction of the special business.
After opening the meeting President Lloyd Carlson introduced Delbert Huss, deputy district governor, as master of ceremonies for the occasion. Ray Galipeau, a past director of Lions International, spoke briefly on Lionism locally and across the world. He told the assembled Lions that they belonged to the greatest service organization in the world and touched on their benefits from and responsibilities to Lionism.
Duties: During the initiation ceremony, Gov. Haemmerle lined up initiates and their sponsors on opposite sides of the room and addressing the new members, explained the duties of each to Lionism and to one another. He presented the new Lions with copies of the organization’s constitution and tokens of their membership. He also discussed the aims of Lions clubs and in some detail told what Lionism tries to do and what it expects from Lions. Following initiation, the district governor spoke on Lionism in District 27C, the territory it encompasses and the number of clubs it comprises and discussed very briefly activities of the 50 clubs within his jurisdiction. Zone 1 of District 27C is comprised of Lions clubs at Omega, Prentice, Medford, Dorchester, Gilman, Thorp and Withee. The first named three were not represented at Monday’s joint installation.
January 21, 1960 -- Lions Club Thinks Proposed Factory a Risky Venture
The Dorchester Lions Club in bi-weekly meeting Monday night voted congratulations to Mr. And Mrs. Anselm Schmid Jr. Upon entering into business in the village by buying the Dorchester Hardware. Members passed a resolution to make the congratulations public by publishing an advertisement in The Clarion. Discussion revealed other recent business starts in the village and it was decided to include Alfred Baker and his new garage in the same advertisement. Editors Note: No mention was made of Baker’s TV, operated by Gerald Baker from special quarters provided within the building erected last summer. Conceivably, the omission is an oversight on the part of the Lions, since the TV business of Jerry, and his father’s automotive repair are operated under the firm name of Baker’s Garage & TV.
Risky Venture: Frank Demuth and O.A. Lindloff of Wisconsin Dells described and discussed their plans for a factory to build mobile motel units, for which they seek capital and a site. With Demuth doing the bulk of the talking for the two men; discussion between speakers and club members elicited a capitalization and financing plan advantageous to the promoters.
Expressions of extreme wariness regarding the proposal were general among the 20 men present after the departure of the Dells men. Street Lights: Clifford Wetterau, village president; Elmer Genrich, trustee and L.D. Sorenson, reported the village board is discussing a possible modernization of the street lighting system in the village.
Previously discussed plans for a throwaway advertising sheet to be published by the Lions Club received further attention at Monday’s meeting. W.P. Lehnetz, publisher of The Clarion suggested to the meeting that there is real cause for concern regarding the effect on the village newspaper of additional competition for the advertising dollar.
He explained that a throwaway sheet would have a definitely adverse effect upon the newspaper, pointing out it was no exaggeration and entirely probable that such a sheet would deal the newspaper a mortal blow.
August 11, 1960 -- Second Annual Dorchester Day Will Be Sunday
A barbecued beef dinner will feature Dorchester Day, scheduled for Sunday; with games, contests and prizes culminating in a free street dance in the evening furnishing diversion for the visitors. Emphasis is on gastronomy for the day with refreshments, hot dogs, bratwurst, hamburgers and barbecue beef being served., The eating will begin Saturday night, Aug. 13. Also set to begin Saturday night is cooking of the beef, which will be barbecued as a whole carcass during the night and up to serving time which begins at 11:00 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 14. Saturday night serving of refreshments and foods will be for the nourishment of visitors who are invited to witness the barbecuing and for those who will be tending the roasting.
The Dorchester Lions Club, sponsoring the Dorchester Day festivities; the second such event to be held here, invites every member of all families in the area to attend, promising something doing for each one. Entertainment for young and old with prizes are promised all afternoon.
The barbecue pit is now being set up on the Soo Line right-of-way just north of the Sebold Oil Co. installation; where the serving will take place along with Sunday’s program. Norm Lindau and his band will play for the free street dance to be held in the evening.
August 18, 1960 -- Large Crowd Here For Second Dorchester Day
Several hundred persons visited the village on the second annual Dorchester Day Sunday, which was acclaimed a pronounced success by the sponsoring agency, Dorchester Lions Club. The day of entertainment was instituted by the club last year with a charcoal chicken fry and this year a barbecued beef featured the event.
The block of Front Street from the Mertens Garage corner south was the scene of the celebration with the barbecue pit situated in the Soo Line right-of-way just north of the Sebold Oil Co. installation. Dinner was served in the O & N Lumber Co. shed. A beer stand occupied the street, with concessions located in and about the American Legion Hall. The layout provided ample room for the festivities.
Nearly Half A Thousand Barbecue Dinners Served: Richard Hurth, president of the Lions Club, reported the first of the week that although total figures were not in, an estimated nearly 500 persons ate dinner on the grounds. Many more pounds of meat were sold during the day in grilled hamburger and bratwurst sandwiches.
The beef was barbecued as a whole carcass beginning about 8:00 a.m. Saturday and was the object of a certain amount of curiosity during the cooking time. A Monday report on the activity at the beer stand placed at about 15 half-barrels the amount of amber fluid consumed on the premises during Saturday night, Sunday and Sunday night.
Horse Pulling Contest Prizes In Two Classes: A horse pulling contest attracted the attention of considerable numbers of the crowd for a couple hours in the afternoon. A total of seven teams of horses were entered in two divisions of that event which was staged about where the stock yards used to stand at the lower end of Front Street. Ray Sersch of Spencer received a $15 first prize in the light team pulling. His team at 3190 pounds needed 9 tries to eliminate three contenders. Second place winner of $10 was the 3190 pound team of Phillip Matten.
August 24, 1961 -- Large Crowds Make Third Dorchester Days a Success
Crowds estimated at up to 2500 persons attended the third and most successful of the annual Dorchester days Saturday and Sunday. They consumed an entire beef which was barbecued whole above a charcoal pit right on the grounds and also disposed of mountains of bratwurst and gallons of beer at a nearby refreshment stand.
Enlarged again from last year’s fiesta Dorchester Days was planned for Saturday and Sunday where it had been only a Sunday affair in the past. A concessionaire with rides and other attractions was brought in also. This provided a Ferris wheel and kiddie rides not previously a feature of the Dorchester Day celebration. The block between Highway “A” and Memorial hall was filled with the several stands and rides. Dinner was served in Memorial Hall, with preparations other than cooking the steer occurring in the former school kitchen.
Mrs. Otto Genrich won the prize of boat, motor and trailer which was a feature of the planning and execution of Dorchester Days. This year the Dorchester Lions Club, Dorchester Volunteer Fire Department and Leach- Paulson Post No. 517 of the American Legion cooperated in putting on the celebration.
The tractor-pulling contest, a Sunday feature and new to Dorchester Days, kept an estimated couple thousand persons interested for three hours. The competition produced four winners in each of four divisions from a field of 22 entrants. Actually fewer than 16 won prizes since Jim Weber, Sylvester Geiger and Clifford Marcott each placed in two divisions. The winners follow. They are named in the order in which they placed: (1-2-3-4) in each classification. Prizes were identical in each: $20 - $8 - six gallons oil - $2.50. Class A - 4500 pounds and under - Jim Weber, Sylvester Geiger, John Stubbs and Clifford Marcott. Hundreds of prizes contributed by merchants and other businessmen of the community were given away during the two-day celebration.
October 19, 1961 -- State Tractor Pull Contest Attracted Large Crowd Here
Nearly half of 35 entries took prize money in the first state tractor pull contest staged here Sunday. Prizes were awarded four places in each of four classes for the event which attracted drivers and spectators from the surrounding area. First prize in each class was $20 - second $7 - third $5 - and fourth $2.
A crowd variously estimated at from 1100 to 1500 persons was on the grounds for the competition which was held on the municipal parking lot across Washington Avenue from memorial Hall.
Places were decided by drivers hooking onto weighted skids and pulling them along a prescribed route with individuals getting aboard at staged intervals. When the load became too great for the tractor to drag it further; the distance traveled was measured and that compared with the distances managed by other tractors along the route. Interest indicated and demonstrated by both participants and spectators led the sponsors of the event, the Dorchester Lions Club to plan another of the events for spring. Winners in each class at Sunday’s event follow, listed in the order in which they placed, first, second, third and fourth.
Class A tractors weighing 4500 pounds and under: Marlin Vircks of Stetsonville, on a Ford pulling the load 62 feet 3 inches; James lapp, Dorchester; Farmall 48 feet 5 inches; George Lewandowski, Dorchester, Massey-Ferguson, 37 feet 4 inches; James Weber, Colby, John Deere, 24 feet 3 inches.
Class B 5700 pounds and under: Dale Geiger, Dorchester, International 128 feet 3 inches; Lawrence Stelzel, Dorchester, Allis Chambers, 128 feet 11 inches; Richard Franke, Stetsonville, Ford 117 feet 5 inches; Ed Hollman, Dorchester, Massey-Ferguson Diesel, 108 feet 11 inches.
Class C 7000 pounds and under: Bernard Geiger, Colby, Farmall 124 feet 9 inches; Ray Deml, Medford, Massey Harris, 124 feet 5 inches; Vernon Niemuth, Stetsonville, Allis Chambers, 122 feet 11 inches; Weber Bros. Cletus Weber driving Co-op 122 feet.
Class D 8250 pounds and under: George Lewandowski, Dorchester M.T.A., 138 feet 2 inches; Jim Gutenberger, Colby John Deere, 137 feet 11 ½ inches; Vessey Geiger, Dorchester, Farmall, 137 feet 9 ½ inches; Roland Pitski, Stetsonville, Ford 6000 Diesel, 135 feet 5 inches.
June 14, 1962 -- Richard Hunsader Is New President Of Lions Club
Newly elected officers of the Dorchester Lions Club were installed at the regular monthly meeting of the club Monday night. Donald Albrecht outgoing president, was installing officers for: Richard Hunsader; Alfred Hinke, first vice-president; LaVerne Sauter, second vice-president; Dennis Mertens, third vice-president; Adolph Gorke, secretary treasurer; Fred Reynolds, lion tamer; John Stubbs, tail twister; James Ortlieb, Gerald Ludwig, Clifford Wetterau and Jerome Radlinger, directors. At the next meeting, July 9, the Lions Club will put reflector tape on children’s bicycles.
June 28, 1962 -- Dorchester Lions Will Apply Reflector Tape To Bicycles
Members of the Dorchester Lions Club will affix reflector tape markings to bicycles of the community at legion hall Monday evening of next week, July 9. Every owner of a bicycle in the village and the surrounding community is requested and urged to bring the bike in for this treatment.
The markings will begin at 6:45 p.m. and during the taping, bike owners will be guests of the Lions Club at a safety talk to be given by Dave Bertz of the Clark County law enforcement department. The application of reflector tape is being done in the interests of safety for bicycle riders in order that their vehicles may be more conspicuous and thus less likely to become involved in traffic mishaps. Officer Bertz will explain the rules of traffic in his talk and also point out safety rules for bike riders.
Richard Hunsader, president of the Lions Club, today said that the club would like to see every bicycle in the community brought in for the reflector tape program.
July 12, 1962 -- Dorchester Days Will Attract Crowds Here
An early feature of Dorchester Days this year is a free fireworks display Friday night, opening day of the weekend village celebration sponsored by the Dorchester Lions Club, Dorchester Volunteer Fire Dept., and the local Leach- Paulson Post, American Legion. The firing of pyrotechnics is scheduled for soon after dark Friday night. If the weather cooperates, it is expected rides and concessions will be operating on the grounds where Dorchester Days was held last year.
The sponsoring organizations have spared no effort to arrange a big program for the entertainment and amusement of visitors at the celebration July 13, 14, and 15. Every member of the family will find something to his or her taste at Dorchester Days. The three day festival will close with fun and frolic Sunday night at a free street dance. Norm Lindau and his band will play for the dance. The Neuber Rides moved onto the scene earlier this week and will provide a variety of rides for the street carnival which also will feature concessions, games and a variety of refreshment stands. The carnival will be located in the block between Highway “A” and memorial Hall. An added Dorchester Days feature this year is a Fish Pond; where in addition to game lucky anglers will catch prizes, worthy of the skill of the best fishermen. It will be open all three days.
Tractor Pulling Contest: Sunday’s feature attraction will be a Wisconsin State Tractor Pulling Contest. A $20.00 first prize is offered in each of five tractor weigh classes and there also are second and third prizes in each class. An estimated $200.00 will be distributed in prizes at this event which will begin Sunday at 9:00 a.m. Dorchester Days which began four years ago as a charcoal grilled chicken feast, is being held a month earlier this year.
Previously held in August, there were frequent conflicts with other observances in the area. A regularly - scheduled Dairyland League baseball game will be played on the school diamond by Dorchester and Prentice during the afternoon. Everyone in the community and neighboring communities is invited to come to Dorchester during Dorchester Days for a good time and entertainment and amusement for the young and the old.
July 19, 1962 -- Thousands Are Entertained At Dorchester Days Weekend
One of the largest crowds ever to visit Dorchester attended the third and final day of Dorchester days on Sunday. The number of visitors was variously estimated at from 2500 to 3000 persons. They came to witness the Wisconsin State Tractor Pulling Contest and a baseball doubleheader between Dorchester and Prentice and amusement and entertainment on rides and concessions here for the festival.
Many remained or returned for a free street dance in the evening, abbreviated somewhat by late showers. There also was a dance in Memorial Hall Saturday night which attracted crowds because of chill and dampness of the carnival grounds. The fourth annual Dorchester Days was extended to three days this year and was again sponsored by the Dorchester Lions Club, Dorchester Volunteer Fire Department, and Leach-Paulson Post No 517, American legion. The block between Center Avenue and Memorial hall was filled with midway attractions which included Earl’s Rides, games and concession stands, refreshment stands and food stands.
A fishing pond with live trout was an especially attractive concession for young and old alike. Prizes were awarded each day for the largest fish caught. A fireworks display highlighted the Friday evening program and was witnessed by a fair sized crowd which braved the cool weather to attend.
The tractor pulling contest was held Sunday afternoon on the Memorial Hall parking lot and was free to spectators. The competition produced three winners in each of the five classes from a field of 29 entries.
April 4, 1963 -- Decide To Form Development Corp. In Village
Dorchester’s business men, meeting in Legion hall Monday night, decided upon incorporation of an organization to promote: Industrial growth within the village. Dennis Mertens volunteered (in the absence of other volunteers) to institute the process of incorporating the Dorchester Area Development Corp., and preliminary steps are being taken.
Members of the Clark County Industrial Development attended the meeting including Harry Wasserberger, chairman, Joe Keating of Thorp, Bert Cattanach, raymond Neuman. Atty. Donald Johnson of Neilsville accompanied them here. The meeting again discussed the need for such organization, decided on such organization and then was informed by the visitors of the procedure involved in its formation.
April 18, 1963 -- Development Corporation meeting Set For Monday
The process of incorporation of the Dorchester Area Development Corporation is well along toward completion according to word from Atty. Donald Johnson of Neilsville, to Dennis Mertens who is working with the attorney in the incorporation. A report of the progress will be given at a meeting in Legion hall Monday night of next week, April 22.
At this time too, it is expected that organization of the corporation may be completed with the election of a board of directors to conduct its affairs. The board of directors will elect officers from among its members. All interested persons of the community are invited to attend the meeting Monday night, April 22, at 8 p.m. in Legion hall here.
April 25, 1963 -- Elect Board Of Directors For Development Corp.
Village boosters interested in the Dorchester Area Development Corp. met Monday night in Legion hall and elected a board of directors of the newly formed organization. Atty. Donald Johnson of Neilsville who drew up the articles of incorporation and filed them with the state, reported on the action taken on the authorization made at the last previous meeting. Corporation papers have been filed with the secretary of state and the Clark county register of deeds.
Monday night’s meeting voted the board of directors to include five members and elected to the board: Dennis Mertens, James Maurina, Elmer Krueger, L.D. Sorenson, John Pinter.
October 24, 1963 -- Lions Club Host at Dinner For Champion Baseball Team
The Lions Club was host to players and management of the Dorchester Baseball Club at dinner Monday evening in Legion hall. The team stayed for the club’s regular meeting and an hour of fellowship was enjoyed by both hosts and guests.
Clifford Wetterau spoke briefly in complimentary the team on winning the Dairyland League championship. He emphasized the appreciation of the club and the community for the fine sportsmanship demonstrated by the individual players and the team and lauded the management for its part in making the team a success.
Jerome Ludwig, team manager, spoke for his club, thanking the Lions club for the dinner and the notice accorded the team. He stated further, that all players and team officers extended sincere thanks and appreciation to the community for the fine support enjoyed during the campaign to the championship and attributed much of the team’s success to the fine support given it by the community residents. The champions had a 13 - 1 won lost record for the league season.
May 21, 1964 -- John Stubbs Is Elected President of Lions Club
The Dorchester Lions Club held election of officers at the May 4 meeting. John Stubbs was elected president, Herman Sebold, first vice-president; James Maurina, second vice-president; Adolph Gorke, third vice-president; M. S. Sorenson, secretary-treasurer; Arthur Meyer, tail twister’ Fred Reynolds, lion tamer; Clifford Herman and Elmer Krueger, directors. The new officers will be installed at the July meeting.
The club voted to sponsor two blind children to blind camp at Rosholt this summer. It was also voted to have one meeting in June, July and August. The club has bought 18 flags and standards to be attached to street light poles for use on patriotic holidays. Lions plan to have them installed for use the first time on this year’s Memorial Day.
June 18, 1964 -- Dorchester Days Program Features Variety Of Events
The recently popular “hootenanny” has been added to the program of Dorchester Days which will be celebrated here this weekend, June 19-20-21. The sixth annual observance of the community festival sponsored annually by the Dorchester Lions Club, Dorchester Volunteer Fire Department and Leach- Paulson Post No. 517, American Legion, gets underway with Earl’s Rides opening up the midway Friday on second Street between the Krueger corner and Memorial Hall corner.
The free square dance, new to the program last year, proved so popular that it is repeated this year and will be held Friday night with Fred Justman calling the tunes. Friday night will see the celebration in full swing with games, concessions and rides operating on the block-long midway. Saturday is kiddies day, featuring contests with cash prizes for youngsters from 1 to 4 o’clock in the afternoon.
The “hootenanny” will take place Saturday night in memorial Hall featuring the “Blue Js” and John Anderson. Everyone is invited to the performance for an evening of diversion and entertainment.
Sunday’s program will feature competition, good eating and dancing, starting at 10:00 a.m. with the weigh-in of tractors for the Wisconsin State Tractor Pulling Contest. The competition will begin at 1:30 p.m. on the parking lot north of memorial Hall. Dorchester Days originated with a charcoal chicken fry in Soo Park on an August Sunday in 1959. So, appropriately, the traditional meal will be a feature of this year’s celebration with serving beginning at 11:30 a.m. and continuing until all have eaten.
October 8, 1964 -- Youthful Anglers Guests Of Lions Club Monday Night
Boys who won prizes in the Dorchester Lions Club youths fishing contest were guests of the club at dinner in Legion hall Monday night. The club conducted the contest for youths under 14 years of age in connection with stocking of the village pond last spring. Leo Vesely, Art Meyer and Fred Reynolds comprised the committee in charge.
Three first prizes consisted of a casting rod, hunting hatchet and gun case. Three tackle boxes were given as second prizes. They were awarded to: Kenneth Vesely, first in crappie and first in bullheads; Mark Wetterau, first in bluegills; Gerald Michlig, James Geiger and David Ellenbecker won second prizes. Away at school, Mark was absent from the dinner so his father Clifford Wetterau accepted his prize for him.
Leo Vesely, Art Meyer and Timothy Mertens have been appointed a youth activities committee for the Lions club and they announced this week that the next project is a Halloween party and plans now are being made for an evening of fun for youths of the community.
April 21, 1966 -- Elect New Officers for Dorchester Lions Club
The Dorchester Lions Club in regular meeting Monday night made final plans for a dinner honoring Jerome Radlinger, governor of Lions District 27-C, Saturday night in St. Louis parish hall. Also planned was the District 27- C cabinet meeting which will be held Sunday at 1 p.m. in Dorchester’s new municipal building. St Peter’s Lutheran Ladies Aid will serve the evening dinner there. The club earlier this month elected new officers, who will be installed at the first meeting in July. They are: Adolph Gorke, president; Clifford Wetterau, first vice-president; Ted Schwoch Jr., second vicepresident; Jerome Radlinger, third vice-president; Neal Melvin, secretarytreasurer; Fred Reynolds, lion tamer; Lloyd Carlson, tail twister; Arnold Rhyner and Alva Hickman, directors for three year terms. Hickman reported the senior banquet will be Monday evening, May 16, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Colby.
April 28, 1966 -- Over 200 Lions attended Testimonial Banquet for Jerome Radlinger
Over 200 persons attended a testimonial banquet and program in St. Louis parish hall here Saturday night. The 204 persons served at the banquet represented 25 of the 60 plus Lions clubs in District 27-C of the organization. It was the greatest number to attend a governor’s testimonial within recent memory of those present.
William Johnson of Wisconsin Rapids, a past district governor, was featured speaker at the event honoring Jerome Radlinger, district governor the past year whose term is now ending and his wife Betty. Eight other past district governors attended as did Ray Galipeau of Merrill, former Lions International director now editor of Wisconsin Lions magazine and officers of most clubs in the area. Before the banquet, all members were guests at a social hour in Memorial Hall.
James Maurina, Dorchester Lions club president, welcomed guests to the banquet and introduced master of ceremonies Donald Albrecht. Father Schuh prayed the invocation and the benediction. Tom McLean and Marvin Kohlbeck led community singing, and the former and Mrs. McLean teamed to entertain with a pantomime “soft shoe” number.
Distinguished guests were introduced by past district governors Don Shaurette of Amherst, who also called the rolled of clubs represented: Dorchester, Colby, Wausau, Arbor Vitae-Woodruff, Marathon, Marshfield, Amherst, Adams- Friendship, Elcho-Pelican Lake, Butternut, Merrill, Minocqua, Nekoosa, Park falls, Tomahawk, Withee, Wisconsin Rapids, Phillips, Pittsville, St. Germain, Rosholt, Spencer, Stettin, Stevens Point, Stratford, Withee.
In his testimonial speech, Johnson praised Radlinger for making an excellent record as district governor, pointing especially to seven new Lions clubs during the term. He suggested that all Lions need to welcome members of the new clubs to the district and make them aware that they are a part of a service organization. He declared this should begin with proper initiation which inculcates new members with Lionism’s precepts and helps them to identify themselves with the membership. The speaker observed that over half of the members who drop out of Lions clubs have been members less than two years, indicating they never really felt they belonged. Johnson made the point strong that while “We want to put more men into Lionism, we want to put more Lionism into men”.
Radlinger expressed thanks and appreciation for having been accorded the opportunity to serve as district governor and for the many expressions of esteem as well for the cooperation given him during his term and for the testimonial banquet.
Chief among gifts for the guest of honor was a metal boat and Dorchester Lions Club presented him a check for $600, money raised by the local club to be given to the Wisconsin Lions Foundation for the state camp for the visually handicapped. Marshfield Lions gave Mrs. Radlinger a large portrait of her husband.
February 23, 1967 ----- Lions Club Marks Tenth Anniversary With Banquet
The Dorchester Lions Club 10th anniversary banquet was well attended Saturday evening by members and by visiting clubs. Over 100 were served dinner at 7:30 p.m. in St. Louis parish hall. Clubs represented were Thorp, Withee, Colby, Wisconsin Rapids, Nekoosa, Wausau, Stevens Point, Phillips, Medford, Merrill, Town of Stettin, Arbor Vitae-Woodruff and Amherst. President Adolph Gorke welcomed members and guests to the anniversary dinner and Donald Albrecht served as master of ceremonies.
A message from the sponsoring club was given by Thorp Lions Club and Shafeec Monsour of Wausau enumerated highlights of the club’s activities in 10 years. Ray Gallipeau, a past state Lions officer was featured speaker and Karl Mess of Phillips, entertained with his tricks of magic.
Charter member certificates were presented to six of the club’s eight charter members who also are 10 year members: Donald Albrecht, Jerome Radlinger, Donald Sauter, Herman Sebold, L.D. Sorenson, M.S. Sorenson.
Charter members not present were Eugene Skerbeck and M.J. Weix. Several perfect attendance awards were presented: two for 10 years, 2 for 7 years, three for four years, five for two years, 2 for 1 year.
April 20, 1967 -- Lions Club Elected New Officers Monday Night
Clifford Wetterau was elected president of the Dorchester Lions Club for the next year when the club met Monday night. Other officers elected during the annual election were Ted Schwoch, Jr., first vice-president; Donald Sauter, second vice-president; Clarence Ballerstein, third vice-president; Neal R. Melvin, secretary; Donald Albrecht, tail twister; Fred Reynolds, lion tamer; Alvin Meyer and Richard Hunsader, directors.
The club members have been divided into two teams to put on the new house numbers, which is planned for an early date. Reflector tape will be applied to bicycles at the next meeting, May 1. This will be done at 6:30 p.m. and Police Chief Leslie Staab will give a talk in safe bicycle practices at the taping.
May 4, 1967 -- Bicycle Safety Stressed at Lions Club Taping Monday
About 50 boys and girls brought their bicycles to Municipal Hall Monday evening to be safety taped by Dorchester Lions Club members. They heard explanations of traffic regulations as applied to bicycles given by Leslie Staab, Dorchester police chief and gave their attention to safe riding practices suggested by him. Chief Staab and two officers of Clark County sheriff’s department distributed literature on safety rules and showed films.
Routine club business was transacted after the club’s dinner hour. The Dorchester Days Committee reported on progress of plans for this year’s celebration. A committee on the children’s fish pond committee reported there is no federal or state aid available for the local project because it is too small. A check is now being made to ascertain if Clark County will provide financial aid to the project.
The house numbering project of the club was set to get underway on Tuesday night. It was delayed however by cold weather.
Numbers are on hand and the members will put them on homes and business places of the village, as time and weather conditions permit. The numerals are of reflector type paint on substantial weigh metal. Each set of three stands the club $1 in cost and the club asks each owner of property numbered to pay that for the numbers affixed to his place.
December 7, 1967 -- Lions Club Meeting Was Monday Night
Twenty three members and one guest attended the Dorchester lions Club dinner meeting Monday evening in the Municipal Building. The club set Thursday night, dec. 14 as the time members would pack Santa Claus treats for children. It will be done in memorial Hall right after supper.
The club named Larry Bengford chairman of the bowling committee to make plans for the club to enter the Lions bowling tournament next spring in Eau Claire. It was announced that the Village of Dorchester has joined the Lucky 13 organization, with the Lions Club having paid the entrance fee. The next meeting, dec. 8 will be the annual Christmas party. Instead of the usual exchange of gifts, members will donate to the retarded children’s campaign for funds.
April 18, 1968 -- Lions Club Held Annual Election of Officers Monday
Clarence Ballenstein was elected president of the Dorchester Lions Club for the coming year at the dinner meeting of the organization Monday night. Twenty six members attended. Other officers elected were: Ted Schwoch Jr., first vice-president; Neal R. Melvin, second vice-president; Donald Albrecht, third vice-president; Fred Reynolds, lion tamer; Larry Bengford, tail twister; Clifford Herman, secretary treasurer; Lloyd Carlson, Herman Sebold and Theo. Schwoch Sr., trustees. Routine business completed the work of the meeting.
July 24, 1969 -- Lions Club Officers Were Installed Monday Night
District Governor Howard Whaples of Vesper was a guest of the Dorchester Lions Club Monday night and installed the new club officers. He gave a talk on his trip to Tokyo, Japan where he attended the international Lions convention in June. New officers of the club are Theo. Schwoch Sr., president; Neal R. Melvin, first vice-president; Donald Albrecht, second vice-president; Herman Sebold, third vice-president; Fred Reynolds, lion tamer; Jerome Gebert, tail twister; Clifford Herman, secretary treasurer; James Maurina, W.C. Pinter, Ted Schwoch Jr., Carl Mertens, directors.
Sixteen members attended the dinner meeting in Municipal Hall. Along with installation, routine business was transacted and report was that a sign had been erected ion Hwy. 13 at entrance to Dorchester, Welcoming Liberty Homes to our community.
April 23, 1970 -- Neal Melvin Is Elected President Of Lions Club
Neal Melvin was elected president of Dorchester Lions Club at Monday evening’s dinner meeting. Seventeen members and a guest, Donovan Robida attended the meeting in Municipal Hall. Other officers elected were Donald Albrecht, first vice-president; Herman Sebold, second vice-president; W.C. Pinter, third vice-president; Clifford Herman, secretary treasurer; Jerome Gebert, tail twister; Frey Reynolds, lion tamer; Art Meyer, Donald Sauter, Jerome Radlinger and M.J. Weix, directors for two years. James Kline and Arthur Hinkleman of Neilsville Lions Club spoke to the club on the Red Cross drive for funds. Clark County has to meet its quota of $6600 for residents of the county to receive benefits from the Red Cross Blood Bank. The local club voted to conduct a door to door canvass of the community on Monday, May 18 at 6:30 p.m. for that purpose.
May 21, 1970 -- Lions Club Will Canvass For Red Cross next Week
Sixteen members attended the Dorchester Lions Club dinner meeting in Municipal Hall Monday evening. Adolph Gorke, Clarence Ballerstein, Ted Schwoch Jr. and Theo Schwoch Sr. were appointed a delegation to the state Lions Convention in Stevens Point June 4-5-6.
The canvass for funds for the Clark County Red Cross Chapter will be conducted by members on an individual basis during next week Monday through Friday. No materials were available Monday night, the time originally set for the fund drive. All residents will be solicited next week, Lions Club members said.
It was announced the local club will have a float in the state convention parade on June 6 and in the Tri-County Dairy Days parade at Abbotsford on June 7. The sum of $25 was voted for the Lucky 13 Association to advertise Dorchester in the brochure published by that organization.
November 19, 1970 -- Lions Club Treated To Moose Dinner By Member
The Dorchester Lions Club met Monday evening in Municipal Hall with 16 members attending the dinner meeting. The dinner featured moose steak as the main course by courtesy of Lion Adolph Gorke. He brought the moose back from a recent hunting trip in Canada with friends.
During the business meeting, President Neal Melvin appointed committees to make plans for Dorchester’s traditional Santa Claus Day next month. The date will be set and final plans made at the Dec. 7 meeting of the club. For the fifth year, the club voted to donate $50 to Dorchester Public Library.
Membership also voted to buy six basketballs for youths of the community to use at recreation activities in Memorial Hall.
April 8, 1971 -- Attendance Awards Made At Lions Club Meeting
The Dorchester Lions Club elected officers Monday evening, inducted nine new members and presented attendance awards. Lions district governor Joseph C. Boettcher of Colby was a guest at the meeting attended by 28 members. Gov, Boettcher inducted the new members: Wayne Underwood, Donald Meyer, Larry Meyer, Donovan Robida, Norman Seipp, Dennis Mertens, Thomas Reynolds, Norman Danen and Richard Brandl. He also presented 100 per cent attendance awards to the following: 13 years, Jerome Radlinger; 6 years, M.S. Sorenson; 5 years, Neal Melvin, Adolph Gorke, Herman Sebold; 2 years, Ted Schwoch Jr., Clifford Wetterau, Clarence Ballenstein; 1 year, Jerome Gebert, Clifford Herman, James Maurina, W.C. Pinter and Arnold Rhyner.
Donald Albrecht was elected president of the club for the next year; Herman Sebold, first vice-president; W.C. Pinter, second vice-president; Arnold Rhyner, third vice-president; Fred Reynolds, lion tamer; Jerome Gebert, tail twister; Clifford Herman, secretary treasurer; Donald Meyer, Donovan Robida and Ted Schwoch Jr., directors. The new officers will be installed at a subsequent meeting. A youth night is planned for the May 3, meeting.
April 20, 1972 -- The Lions Club Elected Officers Monday Night
The Dorchester Lions Club held election of officers Monday night at the regular dinner meeting in Municipal Hall. Arnold Rhyner was elected president; Jerome Gebert first vice-president; Art Meyer, second vice-president; Donald Meyer, third vice-president; Clifford Herman, secretary treasurer; Dennis Mertens, tail twister; Fred Reynolds, lion tamer; and the following were named directors: Norman Seipp, Norman Danen, Jerome Radlinger, Tom Reynolds, Donald Tischendorf, Wayne Underwood.
The 20 members present made plans to put safety tape on bicycles of community youths on May 15. The club made $25 donations to the Duane Pecher and Don Tischendorf families both of whom lost their homes in fire this month. A donation of $200 was made to the Lions camp for the visually handicapped at Rosholt.
The Dorchester Clarion’s last printing occurred on January 3, 1973 so any additional headlines would need to be recorded from personal remembrances. However, it should be noted that the Dorchester Lions Club has performed many worthwhile projects over the years and today that same attitude and concern for others continues. Yes, 60 years later and every month there is a meeting and dinner so that Lions fellowship can continue to be expressed. Many of the members are aging but still their generosity towards others and especially the children who are visually impaired goes on. We salute the Dorchester Lions Club for all the good they have done over those 60 years.