North Powder Lions continue clean-up efforts

interchange clean-up: Monette Wendt and Kate Edwards were among volunteers who turned out recently to help with clean-up efforts at the North Powder freeway exchange. Powder Valley Lions plan to do major landscaping at the site in October. Submitted photo

The Lions are the prime movers behind a plan to beautify the freeway ramps. A major “Adopt a Landscape” project, which will include laying fabric and spreading rock, is slated to begin in October.

On July 18, eight volunteers, along with a work crew provided by the Union County Sheriff’s Office, showed up to cut down weeds and do some general clean-up.

“I have requested a possible weekly work party to get the weeds down so we can lay the weed fabric and have the rock delivered,” Flynn said.

She said the Lions are looking for donations of drought-resistant plants from local nurseries.

“Part of the interchange is too steep to place rock. The plants would soften the landscape and give it dimension,” she said.

Flynn said the Powder Valley Lions are looking for more members, and volunteers for the landscaping project. Those interested should call her at 541-519-4017, or Secretary Sue Dehass, 541-898-3000.

Also recently, the Powder Valley Lions chapter helped with Lions International vision screening at the elementary school. Over 100 students in grades kindergarten-5 were tested.

Lions International provides free eye testing, and furnishes eyeglasses and cornea transplants for those who cannot afford them. Vision testing takes place in a specially outfitted trailer that travels the state.

Powder Valley Lions Flynn, Monette Wendt and Amber Vaughan assisted with the testing, as did Gary and Carol Tate of the La Grande chapter. Gary Tate is the La Grande chapter president.