Lions Foundation to honor two of its founding members

To commemorate the start of its 60th year of service in the Aloha State, the Hawaii Lions Foundation will begin 2020 with a statewide “Celebration of Lions Service” for two of its founding members on Sunday, Jan. 12, on the Big Island.

Kona resident Norman M. Sakata and Hilo native Herbert S. Watanabe will be feted by the Lions of Hawaii District No. 50 (encompassing the entire state and nearly 2,000 members) at 1 p.m. at Nani Mau Gardens in Hilo.

The event honors both men, who together have raised more than a half-million dollars for the foundation and its principle activity, the Hawaii Lions/Makana Foundation Eye Bank. Both men, well into their 90s and still active in their respective Lions Clubs, previously served the Lions in very distinct and prestigious ways.

Sakata served as district governor from 1991-92 and is the impetus behind the annual “Sight is Beautiful” children’s vision poster contest. Watanabe served as district governor from 1979-80 and then as international director (or liaison for the Pacific Ocean region clubs to the international association) from 1993-95.

The nonprofit Hawaii Lions Eye Bank, one of only 56 such facilities in the United States, is responsible for more than 5,500 eye transplants and corneal tissue replacement surgeries since its inception in 1980.

During the Jan. 12 celebration, Sakata and Watanabe will receive an official commendation for their decades of service from Gov. David Ige and Lt. Gov. Josh Green.

In addition, 2019 Na Hoko Hanohano Hawaiian Instrumental Composer of the Year award winner Kris Fuchigami will play for those attending.

A buffet lunch featuring roast beef, chicken cordon bleu and grilled fish with all the trimmings and drinks will be served.

Cost is $40 for adults and $25 for children. Tickets must be purchased at Eventbrite.com by Friday, Jan. 3.

For more information, contact HLF Executive Director Bob Armstrong at 352-2518.