They blaze a trail for others to follow through the service they provide to their community.

On this night, their level of enthusiasm reigned supreme as the Palmerton Lions Club held its annual Installation of Officers Monday at the Fireline Hotel in Palmerton.Liz McElwee, 1st Vice District Governor of District 14-U, announced that Lion Robert Silliman recently received the Leadership Award, the third highest award in Lions Clubs International Foundation.McElwee then installed the new officers.Betty Silliman is the Lion Tamer, while Karen Green is the Lion Tailtwister.Directors are Jim Sheckler, Nick Hawkey, George Unangst, Kenny Huber, and the Rev. John Hazel, who also serves as Chaplain.Robert Silliman is president. Vice presidents are Hawkey, Green, and Judy Borger.Mark Green is treasurer, Sheckler assistant treasurer, and Carla George secretary. Jane Hower is the program chair.McElwee praised the organization for making her feel welcome."I always enjoy coming to this club," McElwee said. "You've always treated me like your own."Mark and Karen Green were named as a Melvin Jones Fellow.The Melvin Jones Fellowship is named for Melvin Jones, the founder of Lions Clubs International.It is largely due to the growth of the fellowship program that the Lions Clubs International Foundation has been able to meet humanitarian needs in communities around the world.Karen said she was humbled by the accolade."It seems like there's more people worthy than me," she said. "I really appreciate it."Her husband, Mark, said being chosen for the distinction was a "surprise.""We don't do it for the honor," he said. "We do it because we enjoy working for and helping the community."Alicia Silliman was recognized as Lion of the Year.She said "all the club members work together.""We all shine together," Alicia said. "It's not just about one person; it's about everyone, all of us."The next meeting of the Palmerton Lions Club will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, June 3, at Chapel Field at Normal Square.