Brooklyn Canarsie Lions unwind at annual holiday party

After a very hectic and productive year, members of the Brooklyn Canarsie Lions Club Monday evening got much-need relaxation and fun, as they unwound at the club’s annual Holiday Party at Nick’s Lobster on Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn.

As they celebrated the season, members were graced with the presence of Sen. Kevin Parker, representative for the 21^st Senate District in Brooklyn.

“It’s a great gathering of friends and community to celebrate the season, as well as to celebrate a year of service to the community,” Parker told Caribbean Life, especially thanking Club President Jean Joseph, a Dominican-born certified public accountant, for her “leadership in the community.”

In addressing the gathering, Joseph extended “warmest wishes for a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

“This past year has been one of remarkable accomplishments for our Lions Club,” she said. “Together, we’ve made a significant impact in our community through countless service projects and initiatives.

“I am extremely grateful for your dedication, hard work and unwavering commitment to serving our community,” she added. “Your tireless efforts have made a real difference in the lives of countless individuals and families in need.

“From providing essential resources to those facing hardship to promoting health and wellness, your work has truly embodied the spirit of Lionism,” continued Joseph, stating that she was “particularly proud of our achievements in addressing food insecurity, education and health in our community.

“This has been a testament to the power of our collective action and the strength of the Canarsie Lions,” she said. “As we look ahead to the New Year, I am confident that we will continue to build upon our successes and make an even greater impact in the world. Together, we can create a brighter future for all.

“Thank you once again for your dedication and unwavering support,” Joseph reiterated. “I wish you and your families a holiday season filled with joy, peace and prosperity.”

Larry Kantor, treasurer of the Brooklyn Canarsie Lions Club, said: “It’s always nice for members turning out.

“We’re dedicated to the community,” he said. “We’re glad to have more members of the community partner with us.”

Member Michael Pemberton said he was delighted to participate in the holiday party.

“It’s a great party – very nice affair, great food,” he said. “I always love to be around the members.

“It’s conducive for young members to get involved in our organization, which is a good brotherhood and fraternity to join,” Pemberton added.

As DJ Arden Tannis, a Vincentian native and club member, struck up soca and parang music, new member Indigo Prodigy, a business owner in Brooklyn, said: “This is a great opportunity for the youth. It puts the focus on philanthropy.

“I’m personally intrigued because my company is focused on uniting the Black community,” Prodigy added. “I want to be able to highlight the work of Ms. Jean Joseph. It’s rare you find an organization that you can clearly see God’s hands on it.”

After feasting on mouth-watering delicacies, Trinidadian Thelma Moore described the holiday party as “good, entertaining.”

“The food was good,” she said. “The weather was good, considering how cold it was a few days ago.”