BOUNTIFUL -- Even for art galleries, it's easier to get by with a little help from your friends. Thanks to the Lions Club of Bountiful, the Bountiful/Davis Art Center (BDAC) has a newly reconstructed, painted wall between to of its classrooms. Previously, the rooms had an unattractive temporary wall dividing them which didn't provide any noise or temperature insulation. "This wall will improve the education program of BDAC as there will be less noise between the two classrooms and a more pleasant work area for students and teachers to learn about art," said BDAC Director Emma Dugal. The Lions Club has had a long history of involvement with BDAC, having painted the exterior of the building a few years ago. They also man the hot dog booth each year at BDAC's Summerfest event.

This particular project, which has long been a need at the art center, was brought to the Lions Club's attention by BDAC board member Jean Madsen. Madsen's husband Dale, now deceased, was with the Lion's Club for more than 40 years.

Working in three crews -- demolition, construction and painting -- the club members removed the old wall, built a new wall with insulation, and painted it. They then painted the entire classroom area and installed a brand-new set of doors, donated by Colonial Lumber in Centerville, in another classroom.

"I found the Lions to be willing, capable and fun," said Dugal. "We're grateful to them for all their assistance and service."

According to Carl Page, president of the Lions Club of Bountiful, the funding for the project came from the group's "Turkey Shoot" fund-raising activity in November. The funds raised at the shoot and other Lions Club activities are often earmarked for community projects such as this.

As for BDAC's projects, the center is still hard at work raising funds for and finalizing approvals to create a children-only art exhibition space in the area next to the classrooms, as well as a workshop area where children can create the art that might eventually end up being exhibited. Also on BDAC's project list is a children's art area for the upstairs galleries.

Anyone interested in working with the Lions Club to help the community can call Page at 298-2597. Those interested in specifically offering their assistance to the art center can call 292-0367 or visit them online at www.bdac.org.

jwardell@davisclipper.com