New Lions and sponsors pause for a photo. L–R: Lion Amanda Schmidt, Melushca Schmidt, Bernadine Pandt, Merolien Penijn, Teresita van Putten Duinkirk, New President Cherile van Putten.
ST. EUSTATIUS--The Lions Club St. Eustatius had a full program on Wednesday evening, where three events took place at the Ernest "Mike" van Putten Youth Centre/Lions Den.
The Lions had their first meeting, as well as an installation, and prospective members were also present and introduced. Lion Amanda Schmidt also received the Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow Pin, one of the highest honours. She is the second person to receive this award on the island; the dearly departed Lion Leonora Sneek-Gibbs was the first to receive it on the island.
Schmidt expressed her appreciation for the honour.
New President Cherile van Putten said a few words at the event. She said it was with great honour that she expressed sincere appreciation to everyone at their first meeting of the Lionistic Year 2026–2027. Van Putten said that as she begins her term as president, she is grateful for the confidence everyone has placed in her, and she looks forward to working together with everyone to continue the great work and fellowship that defines the Lions Club.
"To our Lions members, your dedication, friendship, and commitment to serve are what make our club strong," van Putten said. "I appreciate your support and look forward to the guidance, encouragement, and teamwork that will help us make this a successful and rewarding year." She acknowledged the prospective Lions members and expressed how delighted she was that they had chosen to spend this time with the Lions Club.
Van Putten said the evening gave prospective Lions members the opportunity to learn more about the Lions Club, meet its members, and experience the fellowship that makes their Lions family so special. "We hope you feel comfortable, welcome, and at home in our den, and we also extend a warm welcome to our members who will be installed." The new President said that the Club is excited to officially welcome everyone to the Lions family and looks forward to sharing with each one of them the friendships, responsibilities, and opportunities for service that come with being a Lion.
As this was their first meeting of the new Lionistic year, the club began with fellowship and friendship. "This evening will take the form of a social gathering, giving us the opportunity to reconnect, introduce ourselves, get to know our prospective members, and strengthen the bonds that unite us," the new President said. "A Lions Club is built not only through service projects and achievements but also through the relationships we develop with one another."
Van Putten encouraged everyone to take the time to share a conversation, make a new connection, and help create an atmosphere where everyone feels they belong. "As we begin this new year together, let us continue to uphold the values of Lionism and embrace every opportunity to serve our community, support one another, and grow as a club."
She closed off by saying how much she is looking forward to serving with everyone during the year ahead as they serve the community.
