By LINDA BEATTY
CONTRIBUTOR

BOYKINS
It was a historic moment in the history of Boykins on March 10, at the Boykins Beans and Ice Cream. For the first time in the existence of two of its foremost civic organizations, a joint meeting of the two groups was held.

The Boykins Lions Club has been in existence for 70 years and the GFWC Tarrara Woman’s Club will celebrate 80 years of service this year.

The two organizations met together to hear a presentation by the new director of The Village at Woods Edge, with the focus being on Asa’s Neighborhood Memory Care unit there. Billie Turner had previously served as director of that unit, and other positions as well, before her promotion to Director at the Village.

Her passion for the care of patients with dementia was evident as she explained the mission of the unit and the various activities they participate in to help them feel involved and safe while providing peace of mind for their families.

Also attending was Dawn Womble, the new director of Asa’s Neighborhood. Attendees were given the opportunity to ask questions and Billie also provided brochures with additional information.

The Lions numbered 16 and Tarraras numbered 10 plus one guest, however, two of those present were members of both clubs – Victoria Edwards and Linda Beatty.

For the first time three couples were able to attend their monthly club meetings together instead of separately – Lions’ Charter Member Roy Lassiter at age 97 and his wife Kitty; R. T. Lassiter, Jr. and wife, Dot; and Sam Drewry and wife Jean.

Another significant historical fact is that since the Lions opened membership to women a few years ago, it marked the first time that a Lions Club member has been expecting a baby.

Likewise, Victoria Edwards was the first Tarrara Club president to have a baby while in office when she and Matthew (who is also a Lion) had their first child, Nathaniel, and now they are expecting their second child any time.

Though their main focus areas may differ – Lions concentrate on hearing and sight screening while the national project for women’s clubs is domestic violence.

They are both heavily involved in many other aspects of community service and both provide scholarships to graduating seniors from local high schools.

It was an enjoyable and informative evening and all who attended can be proud to be part of this history-making moment – too bad we didn’t get a single photo of it.