BEDFORD – After a quarter-century of community service, the Bedford Noon Lions Club is officially closing its chapter. Founded in May 2000 by Bill Himebaugh, the club was originally formed as an alternative to the Bedford Evening Lions to accommodate members who preferred daytime meetings and to provide an inclusive space that welcomed women into its ranks. Two members , Mike Sowder and Vivian Fisher, signed the charter in 2000.
Throughout its 25 years, the Noon Lions Club played an active role in supporting numerous local and state-wide causes. From helping organize events like the Knights of Columbus Tootsie Roll Drive and the Limestone Heritage Festival to writing heartfelt Christmas cards for local nursing home residents, the group left a lasting impact on the Bedford community.
Their efforts extended to educational and service-driven programs such as Constitution Day for eighth graders, eye screenings for school-age children, and support for the Men’s Warming Center and Hoosier Trails Council-BSA. The club also collaborated with the South Central Association of the Visually Impaired and honored law enforcement through their annual “Officer of the Year” luncheons.
In addition to their local initiatives, the Bedford Noon Lions contributed to multiple Indiana Lions Foundation projects, including:
- Vision First Eye & Tissue Bank
- Indiana Lions Speech & Hearing
- Leader Dogs for the Blind
- Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired
- Lions Cancer Control
- Lions Diabetes Awareness and Support
Despite their commitment and achievements, the club ultimately decided to dissolve due to declining membership. The smaller structure of the group once served as a convenient option for members who preferred not to attend evening meetings. However, changing demographics and limited participation led to the difficult decision to close.
Members are encouraged to continue their service by transferring to other nearby Lions Clubs in Lawrence County, including the Bedford Evening Lions, the Fayetteville Community Lions, and the Mitchell Lions.
While the Bedford Noon Lions Club may be closing its chapter, its 25-year legacy of kindness, service, and community support will be remembered and appreciated for years to come.
