Berkeley, CA – On Saturday, May 25, 2024, the El Sobrante Machhapuchhre Lions Club celebrated its Charter Night at the North Berkeley Senior Center, marking a significant milestone with an evening filled with camaraderie, cultural celebration, and commitment to community service. The event was a resounding success, thanks to the efforts of the club members and the support of the larger Lions community.

The evening began with a social hour from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, allowing attendees to network and share in the excitement. The formal program commenced at 6:00 PM, led by MC and Charter Club Secretary Reshma Karki Khadaka. Charter Member Precious Bhandari led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a heartfelt invocation from Cabinet Secretary Audrey Nieman. The national anthems of the United States and Nepal were performed, symbolizing the club’s connection to both local and heritage communities.

Charter First VP Sheela Thapa welcomed the guests, expressing her excitement and pride in the new club’s journey. District Governor Manil Babu Shrestha, District Governor Elect Darlene Ridle, and Keynote Speaker PDG Rajen Thapa performed the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolizing enlightenment and the dawn of a new chapter for the Machhapuchhre Lions Club.

First VDGE Lion Laxmi Chaudhary introduced the evening’s dignitaries, highlighting their contributions. Region Chair Bibek Shrestha introduced the Induction Officer, District Governor Elect Darlene Ridle, who called all charter members to the front for their induction. District Governor Manil Babu Shrestha presented Lions packets and pins, officially welcoming the new members into the Lions family.

A dinner break from 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM allowed attendees to enjoy a delicious meal and continue their conversations. The evening was further enlivened by cultural performances from Drishya Bogati, Laxman Adhikari, Nirmal Phuyal, Kumar Dong, and their team, celebrating Nepali culture through music and dance.

Zone Chair Vijay Chaudhary introduced the Installation Officer, District Governor Manil Babu Shrestha, who formally installed the new officers. Charter President Kranti Aryal Bhandari’s acceptance speech was filled with gratitude and a vision for the club’s future. Representatives from District 4-C3 and various Lions clubs presented gifts, checks, and symbols of Lions’ service, showcasing the strong support network within the Lions community.

Charter Treasurer Raj Prakash Bhandari introduced keynote speaker PDG Rajen Thapa, who emphasized the importance of community service and the impactful role of Lions Clubs globally. Congratulatory remarks were offered by PDG Bill Ridle and Preetesh Karki from the Nepali Association of Northern California, reinforcing the club’s strong community ties.

Guiding Lion Dhruva Thapa delivered the vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, sponsors, and volunteers for their crucial roles in the event’s success. Charter President Kranti Aryal Bhandari officially adjourned the event, leaving attendees with a sense of accomplishment and a renewed commitment to the mission of the Lions Club.

The Charter Night of the El Sobrante Machhapuchhre Lions Club was a memorable event, filled with joy, cultural celebration, and a strong sense of community, setting the stage for the club’s future endeavors as they continue to serve with dedication and compassion.