islanders who have benefited from the true spirit of "Lionism'' displayed by friends at the Bronx Lions Club in New York.

A network of "readers'' around New York state have been established by the club to tape complex textbooks for the student.

Many people in Bermuda owe a special "Thank you'' to the members and friends of the Bronx Lions Club, especially Mr. Marty and Mrs. Joyce Grossman and her sister, Mrs. Dot Pillischer.

The three have given locals overwhelming assistance and support when they have been in the United States for eye treatment.

They have met patients and their families at various airports, opened their homes to them, ferried them to medical appointments, and made sure each one got back to the Island safely.

If a Bermudian child must undergo unpleasant tests, treatments or surgery, Mrs. Grossman ensures that there is a special treat awaiting the young patient, such as a surprise trip to the zoo.

Mrs. Pillischer acts as a chauffeur and chef who can whip up meals for 10 people at a moment's notice.

Mr. Grossman has worked with the Bronx Lions to establish an excellent relationship with the Montefiore Hospital, which has provided many Bermudians with eye care at minimal or no cost.

Through them, the Bermuda Lions Clubs have been introduced to two directors of the Helen Keller Institute in Long Island, Mr. Frank and Rosemary Romano, who are both blind themselves.

The Romanos have provided advice and guidance for blind people and their families, and through the institute, have brailled text books. This service has enabled blind children to be mainstreamed into the Bermuda school system.

The Bronx Lions have also made it possible for the Bermuda clubs to obtain books on tape for children and adults, braille books for children and medical care beyond anything the local Lions could afford.