Guidry named 2014 Lion of the Year

Michael Guidry, the 2014 recipient of the Rayne Lions Club “Lion of the Year” Award was described as a member “who shows up whenever asked” to work on club projects and events, reported Daniel Simoneaux chairman of the selection committee consisting of  John Quebodeaux and Horace Thibodeaux.
Guidry responded that he never expected to so honored as he accepted the award during the club’s installation banquet Thursday, June 19, at the American Legion hall.
Tim Prevost was sworn in as the club’s 2014-2015 president by Laurie Guillory, incoming 8O district governor.
Installation duties were shared by Guillory and William Arceneaux, outgoing district governor.
Joining Prevost as newly installed officers  were Jacob Pitts, first vice president; Gerard Credeur second vice president; Jacob Dogua, third vice president; Luke Beslin, secretary; Craig Houston,treasurer; John Quebodeaux, tail twister; Kenneth Guidry, lion tamer; Harold Jagneaux, membership director; John Jude Beslin, Michael Guidry and Ed Moody II, directors; and Roy Credeur, Sr. as past president.
In his welcoming remarks, Mayor Roland Boudreaux recited a list of the community projects completed by the club members during 2014 and wondered about the expense of  accomplishing those services  “if you had to pay for all those manhours”
As one of his final official duties Roy Credeur, outgoing president, presented certificates of appreciation to all committee chairmen, as well as perfect attendance pins.
Recognized for perfect attendance Carol Menard, 47 years; Horace Thibodeaux, 33 years; Alfred “Popcorn” LeBlanc, 25 years; Rodney Soileau, 19 years; Roy J. Credeur, Sr., 16 years; Luke Beslin and Daniel Simoneaux, 13 years; Troy Kibodeaux, 12 years; Bryon Foote, 7 years; Michael Guidry, 6 years; Reinhart Kondert and Jacob Dogua, 3 years; John Jude Beslin, Jules Simoneaux and John Quebodeaux, 2 years; and Craig Houston and Harold Jagneaux, 1 year.
Credeur referred to the various speakers who appeared during the past year and concluded, “Thank you for allowing me to serve as president.”
Incoming president Prevost described the past years as “historical”, citing the induction of the first female member and as a “stepstone to the future.” He also proposed establishing Leo clubs at Rayne High and Notre Dame High  as one of his goals.
Frank Touchet, a past district governor, explained his enduring appreciation for Lionism, offered his continued support and commended the Rayne club as the finest club in the district.
Judge Jim Cunningham served as the evening’s master of ceremonies.
A color guard of Girl Scout Troop 2345 led the Pledge of Allegiance.  
Rev. Jason Corder offered the invocation and benediction.