On March 2nd, the Raleigh Lions Clinic had important visitors from the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) tour our facility. General Henry T. Glisson, the commanding officer over DLA, accompanied by two of his aides and two public affairs officials, viewed our operation after a briefing about the Clinic’s programs. Several members of the Raleigh (Host) Lions Club and the Raleigh Lions Clinic’s Board were also in attendance.

In a special ceremony after the tour, General Glisson was awarded an honorary certificate of membership (H5) in appreciation for the long-term support by DLA of our program for blind and visually impaired North Carolinians. Irma Acuna made the presentation, accompanied by Martha McNeill and Billy Barnhill. Irma Acuna thanked General Glisson for DLA’s support and added that the Raleigh Lions Clinic is proud to be a part of the Javits-Wagner O’Day program in the manufacture of items for our military and civilian personnel. This was the fifth honorary stockholder’s certificate ever presented to individuals outside of the Raleigh (Host) Lions Club.

Items produced for the Defense Logistics Agency include bag, chemical protective clothing outfit; binding, snowshoe; insulation tape, electrical; kit bag, flyers; neckerchief, desert; pillows, bed; strap, chin; suspenders, individual equipment, belt; and suspenders, trouser.

After the tour, General Glisson spoke before the Raleigh (Host) Lions Club concerning the soldier of the future.

The News & Observer featured a photo of General Glisson pictured along with J.W. Wells and work adjustment consumer Lusio Morales during the recent visit.

The new RLCB Self Service Supply Center opened its doors on April 23, 1998! Our latest store, located on Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, offers computer and office supplies, military specific items and maintenance supplies to military and civilian personnel. This latest endeavor is our second base supply store that has opened within the past year. The RLCB Eagle Mart located at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, began operation in August 1997. There are a total of 33 distribution centers at military installations across the U. S. operated by facilities for the blind, such as the Raleigh Lions Clinic.

A special welcome to RLCB Self Service Supply Center manager, David Mazurowski, and to cashier, Charles Leathers. Also, many thanks to these new employees and to Allen Simms, David Martin and to all the support personnel (Dan McAlister, Barry Wilson, Brad Bender, Lester Johnson, and Albert Roberson) for all their efforts in getting the supply store off the ground.

Many of us recognize Sharen Robinson as one who is always quick with a bright smile. This upbeat employee has been a vital part of our sewing department since April 1986.

Sharen credits the Governor Morehead School, where she attended from the early age of 7 through graduation, for first introducing her to sewing. She has primarily been the only sewing machine operator sewing pillow ticks for all of our pillow orders. Sharen commented that what makes her job at the Raleigh Lions Clinic most enjoyable is our working environment here.

What does Sharen do when away from work? She participates with the Raleigh Parks and Recreation Program by touring sites, such as to the Andy Griffith museum in Mt. Airy or taking in an occasional dinner with friends at one of our area restaurants. Sharen also enjoys talk radio, television comedies, music (especially heavy metal and country), reading mystery novels and corresponding with other visually impaired pen pals. From time-to-time Sharen also visits her mother and sister near her hometown of Candor.

A special congratulations, Sharen!

When asked about being the recipient of the 1998 Russell G. Broaddus employee of the year award, Angela Hodge responded that it was a “thrill” to be recognized! Angela now proudly displays her award in the living room. “It is the first thing you see when coming in the door”.

Recognition is not new for Angela. Angela was only 8 years old when she began sewing through the 4-H clubs. During her years with the 4-H, Angela won five blue ribbons. Angela continued sewing while on a naval supply ship out of Norfolk, Virginia. The ship, made up of 1,100 personnel, supplied weapons and food to nuclear submarines. While stationed in the Navy, Angela received two medals for her unit work in both squadrons.

Now Angela lives in Bunn with her husband, two sons, ages 3 ½ and 2 and grandfather. During free moments, she enjoys watching softball games in the park, flea markets, reading romance novels and most of all being with her family.

When asked about her employment at the Raleigh Lions Clinic since 1994, Angela quickly replied that she likes sewing and the people that she works around. She added that the benefits and hours are also a plus.

Best wishes, Angela on your many accomplishments!

Upcoming Federal Law

Beginning January 1, 1999, a new federal law will require that all government payments including social security payments be deposited directly into checking or savings accounts. With direct deposit, checks are scheduled to be in the bank on time every month and will begin earning interest immediately. Checks are not lost or stolen because the funds are deposited electronically.

To make arrangements for direct deposit, you can call the Social Security Administration (between the hours of 7:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday) at 1-800-772-1213 and sign up over the telephone. Be sure to have your social security number and bank account number available at the time of the call. Direct deposit is easy, convenient, and safe.

Congratulations for Years of Service ...

January
Annie Johnson 12 Robert Hinton 10 Martha McNeill 10
Vicki Bradley 5 Baleriana Garcia 3 Mary Banks 3

February
Shirley Edwards 20 Judy Eason 14 Julius McNair 14
Raine Pierce 8 Linwood Wallace 4 Linda Sanders 3
Melaney Stein 2
March
Billy Barnhill 27 Alice Kelly 18 James Hinton 11
Dolores Hartlage 10 James Crowell 10 Charlie Tillman 6
Darnell Crudup 6 Tommie Legrand 6
April
Mary Evans 14 Sharon Robinson 12
Irma Acuna 12 Carolyn Whitley 3 Gail Haith 3
Audrey Register 2
May
Ellen Reed 14 Martha Combs 14 Ginger Pate 13
Ricky Stanley 12
June
Lester Johnson 20 Barry Wilson 10 Jody Turnage 6
Tiffany Otto 2 Lisa Pitts 2 Eugene "Al" Albert (RLCB Eagle Mart) 1
Roger Smith (RLCB Eagle Mart) 1