1960: The Year the Granger Lions Roared for Community Progress

Granger Lions Club in 1960: A Year of Service, Safety, and Community Building

The year 1960 was a banner year for the Granger Lions Club, as its members poured time, energy, and heart into building a better community for the residents of Granger and Hunter. In true Lions spirit, the club led several key initiatives focused on safety, recreation, and long-term civic improvements—leaving a legacy of leadership during a pivotal time in the area’s development.

New Leadership, New Vision

In June 1960, the club elected a dynamic new slate of officers. Florien J. Wineriter, program director at KALL Radio, became club president, stepping into the role previously held by Fred J. Vincent. Residing at 2751 West 3150 South in Granger, Wineriter was joined by:

  • Ivan Woodbury, First Vice President

  • Ray Hemingway, Second Vice President

  • Bill Barton, Third Vice President

  • Jess Grover, Secretary

  • John Wells, Treasurer

  • Wilf Tanner, Lion Tamer

  • Ed Shea, Tail Twister

  • Basil Eyre and Ned Winder, Two-Year Directors

This group quickly went to work on projects that directly served the needs of the growing Granger-Hunter population.

"Lights for Safety" Campaign

One of the most significant undertakings of the year was the “Lights for Safety” campaign, chaired by Ivan Woodbury. The Lions worked closely with local PTA leaders, school principals, civic groups, and the Salt Lake County Commissioners to advocate for improved street lighting—particularly around Granger Elementary, Monroe School, and key intersections leading to Granger High. The campaign responded to concerns about children walking to and from school “in the dark” due to double sessions, and it sought to enhance safety in the Hillsdale subdivision, especially near Tess Avenue and Lehi Drive.

Their formal letter of recommendation, backed by community leaders and submitted to the county, emphasized the life and safety of thousands of schoolchildren and residents.

Calendar Fundraiser for Granger Park

In September 1960, the club launched a calendar sales drive, led by Bill Barton, to raise funds for improvements to Granger Park. Every household in the area received a letter about the campaign, followed by door-to-door visits by Lions members and local Boy Scouts. Proceeds from the calendar sales were earmarked specifically for park development, reinforcing the club’s long-term vision of enhancing public recreational spaces for families.

October Bazaar at Mickey’s Danceland

Also in the fall, under Woodbury’s leadership, the Lions planned a fundraising bazaar at Mickey’s Danceland on October 14. The event featured a festive mix of games, raffles, and dancing. The **grand prize—a color television set—**drew much attention, along with other giveaways such as groceries and gift items. A full canvass of the Granger-Hunter area helped ensure strong turnout. Proceeds were again directed toward Granger Park improvements and the Lions’ ambitious goal of establishing a future community center for the area.

Legacy of 1960

In one remarkable year, the Granger Lions Club tackled public safety, youth recreation, and community development through hands-on efforts and creative fundraising. These projects reflected the Lions' belief that small, locally driven initiatives could have a powerful, lasting impact.

With leadership from figures like Florien Wineriter, Ivan Woodbury, Bill Barton, and a dedicated team of civic volunteers, the Lions helped lay the foundation—both literally and figuratively—for the thriving city that West Valley would one day become.

This jacket belonged to Guy W Kimball (my father)

This jacket belonged to Guy W Kimball (my father)

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