King Lion Dan Wikoff began the ceremony by stating, “We are very proud and appreciative of all that Durham does for the community as a volunteer, and for his commitment to the Lake Placid Lions Club.”

Durham moved to Lake Placid in 2005 from the Clifton Park area, where he was employed as the general manager of the Hess Convenient Store, to take a job as assistant manager at the Lake Placid McDonald’s restaurant. In 2016, he climbed the Golden Arches and was promoted to store manager, which is a position that he presently occupies.

It is easy to see why Durham is a valued manager and employee as he can be seen at the facility most any day serving in any position that needs attention for whatever reason.

Despite his busy professional schedule, Durham has volunteered his skills and energies to the community, including serving as secretary on the Shipman Youth Center Board of Directors and volunteering for the Ironman Lake Placid triathlon along with members of his family. He was also instrumental in orchestrating an anti-bullying policy at the Lake Placid Middle-High School. Durham has four children: Marissa, Vee, Bryon and Ashley, as well as six grandchildren.

In 2016, during a conversation at the youth center with local legend and longtime member of the Lake Placid Lions Club, Jimmy Hadjis, he became interested in the club.

Since joining the Lions in 2016, Durham has been a resolute member and has participated in all the annual fund-raising activities each year, including the radio auction, toboggan slide race and promotional dinners. He now serves as club treasurer.

When not working or volunteering, Durham enjoys riding his motorcycles with friends and spending time with his grandchildren.

Asked about his involvement in a variety of local organizations, his reply was, “I enjoy volunteering. It allows me to meet other people and the feeling I get to help others that need it and some that don’t ask.”

The Lake Placid Lions Club is always interested in seeking new members. For more information, call Dan Wikoff at 518-523-7520.

(Jay Rand is a member of the Lake Placid Lions Club.)