Joanne Rush has been named the 2012-2013 Western Pocono Lions Club Lion of the Year.

"This Lion truly exemplifies our motto 'We Serve,'" said Western Pocono Lions Club President Charles Rush, her husband, who referred to Joanne as his partner in service and in life.He added that since joining the Lions Club in 2006, Joanne has been active on the Lion's scholarship committee (2007-2008) and as a fundraiser for the club's annual Bowl-A-Thon. She also served as a Lion Tamer during the 2009-2010 session and has served on the board of directors since 2009."The honoree also has staffed the booth at the West End Fair, rung the bell for the Salvation Army and has edited our monthly newsletter from 2006 to present," he said, noting that in addition to her Lions service, Joanne is also an active member of the local community.A member of Zion United Lutheran Church, Joanne is on the church council, and serves as treasurer and financial secretary and also sings in the choir.She also serves as a member of the Pocono Mission District council for the NEPA Synod of the ELCA, is treasurer of the Monroe County chapter of Thrivent Financial, and delivers Meals on Wheels."I feel the Lions do a lot of good for the community, helping people with eye glasses, scholarships and helping beautify the community," said Joanne.When asked if she was surprised, Joanne said that she was surprised until seeing family members at the Lions gathering, including her daughter and son-in-law, the Revs. Sharon and Tim Taylor, and son Dwayne Rush."Joanne has been the 'stickum' that keeps the club members aware of happenings. She produces the newsletter, makes media contacts, sends cards to those who are ill or sorrowing, and emails all when a timely matter occurs," said PDG Bob Argot, a longtime member of the club.For more information about the Lions Club, call Joanne at (610) 381-3759.