2009 North Caroline Lions Pin Traders Club Swap

April 23-25, 2009

Lions and guests from fourteen states gathered in beautiful Asheville, North Carolina, April 23-25 to enjoy the hospitality of the North Carolina Lions Pin Traders and to trade a few pins. Although numbers were down from previous years, attendees seemed to enjoy the informal setting. Trading was brisk and enthusiastic. The NC Swap has become well-known for its Southern hospitality, warm fellowship and of course its hospitality room, which remains open throughout the swap. This allows traders and guests an opportunity to get away from the trading area for a while and just relax with a cup of coffee or soft drink and snack.
Just as they did last year, NCLPTC issued three pins with an Andy Griffith TV show theme. The “script” registration pin featured a muscular eagle dubbed “Rambo Fife;” the swap pin featured a Mayberry squad car; and a special pin for those attending breakfast featured a Mayberry sheriff’s badge. Six NC Lions issued a set of “Car-O-Lion” pins featuring the same car as on the Swap pin and the eagle as on the registration pin.
The North Carolina Lions Foundation had their customary pin sale and silent auction. There was also a silent auction featuring some of Past District Governor Joe Moss’ pins.
Friday night featured the traditional North Carolina Lexington style barbecue with all the fixings. Hot dogs and trimmings were also available. Friday night also included a live auction, featuring some real jewels. Licensed auctioneer Col. Ralph Crane and PDGs Dave Butler and Gene English did their best to keep things lively.
Saturday morning started with a Southern-style breakfast with eggs, hash browns, sausage, bacon, fruit and sweet rolls. Following the breakfast, several presentations were made, most notably donations to LIPTC President Larry Shaull towards the $100,000 goal to Campaign SightFirst II. NCLPTC completed its $5,000 pledge with a $2,000 check. 
There was a cloud over the festivities. Lion Bill Russell (Winston Salem, NC) was not in attendance. This is the first North Carolina swap Lion Bill has ever missed. Upon arriving home from the Pennsylvania Swap in March, Lion Bill was diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer. Lion Bill’s boisterous presence was sorely missed. He is currently undergoing chemo therapy. He would appreciate notes, cards and especially prayers.
The 2010 Swap has been scheduled for the same weekend and same location. Contact Lion Gene English (919-772-4285) or Dave Butler ( 828-883-8825) for information.

Gene English trading pins	LITPC IPP Jim Schiebbel of New York selling raffle tickets	Left to right: Tim McCaulley, PA; Don Wagner, GA and Angelo Strazzante, FL
Gene English of NC presenting a check to LITPC President Larry for CSF II	Bill Jordan of SC with LITPC President Larry	Art Lewis of Tenneesee presenting a $4,000 donation to LITPC President Larry for CSF II.
Updated: May 8, 2009