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Board Meeting – January 18, 2024

Friday, January 19th, 2024
BLC January BOARD Meeting Minutes – January 18, 2024

Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook @ 11:55am

Members Present: Keith Cook, Jon Fontenot, Karen Stagner, Danny Dossman, Mike Matthews, John Corsi
Absent: Jennah Gliha, Christa Strang, Mark Bellomy, Mac Hickerson, James Harrison, Reece Davis

Membership Report – Karen Stagner – Invoices for 2nd Quarter 2023-2024 have been issued.

 Regular Member – 28
 Affiliate Member – 1
 At Large Member – 9
 Total Members – 38
 Associate Member – 1

Treasurer Report –
  General Account – $ 8,951.86
Activity Account – $ 33,655.23

Old Business:

– Update on Cadence Bank – CD and other – Jon Fontenot is waiting for new debit card on the General Account.  Once he receives the card and has used it at least once for lunch, he will proceed with transferring Investment Accounts to Cadence for CD’s.
– LCI Dues have been paid.  District Dues and Spot/Lead donation have been paid.  It was questioned about the Board decision on donating to the Museum and/or the Texas Lions Foundation.  Secretary Stagner will review past Board Meeting minutes and advise.

– Plate Spinning Contest – Jon Fontenot will reach out again to the winner; giving him the option to join us for lunch to get his plate and cutting board; or we can make arrangements to deliver it to him and get photos; or he can stop by the Fire Station to pick them up.

– Charter Night – May 3rd, in the evening. The Board discussed the original approval of a $2,400 budget for the event – expecting the buffet would be more per plate than lunch.  Since then, we discovered the price is same for lunch or dinner.  Thanksgiving Lunch was just around $1,000; and with additional invited District guests for the 85th Anniversary, it could be anticipated to be around $1,500 for the meal.  Jon Fontenot pointed out that our usual lunch bill is about $250-$300 – which we wouldn’t be paying on Thursday.  Danny Dossman commended James Harrison, Event Chair, for getting $1,200 in sponsorship – so far – for the event – so, the sponsorships, coupled with what we would have normally paid for lunch would total roughly $1,500. Additional cost for entertainment, cake, etc. will need additional sponsorship(s).  Jon Fontenot recommended a sign-up sheet to be available soon. James Harrison will schedule a Committee meeting once he returns from the BLC Fundraiser Cruise. Charter Night Committee member Jon Fontenot will relay the Board discussion to the Committee.

– Stampede Bike Ride – June 8th – Brett Beamesderfer is going by King on the Mountain Bike Shop on Friday to finalize so we can get the website set up and open for Registration; and get the Ride posted on Wheel Brothers.

– Wacky Boat Race – Date will probably be same time of year, maybe same weekend as 2023.  Danny Dossman will schedule a Kick-off planning meeting in February. It was suggested that we get Schools to Challenge each other.

– Membership Milestone Awards –The Board agreed that Milestones will be in five (5) year increments; starting at 10 year membership.  –John Corsi and Jennah Gliha – still working.

– Banner Stand and/or Specialty Products – Danny Dossman has built a banner stand – we will need to get an information banner for it – to be used at Boat Race, Bike Ride, Fall Festival and other events.  Karen Stagner has found 78”x33” retractable banner stand for roughly $200 with case – she will present it at the next Board Meeting. John Corsi suggested that we use the one Danny is making for our lunch meetings.  Specialty Products: We found Lions squeeze toys; and the previous BLC giant coloring book (given to Lea and Lorna to look into at the District and State level).  Fall Festival give-aways were about 50 of each item. We will revisit this at next meeting.

New Business: 

Danny Dossman expressed “Thanks and Appreciation” to the Club Treasurer and Secretary for their time and dedication.

Club Excellence Award – Secretary Stagner will apply for this year. 

Club Metrics: 1,770 people served / 13 Service Activities Completed, 849 Volunteer Hours, $7,500 Funds Donated, $2,900 Funds Raised 

Holding to a Later Date:
– District Cabinet Meetings – January 27, McGregor / April 26-27
– David Shaw – Deployment bags are requested for our Adopted Unit – tabled until Lion Shaw is able to provide details.
– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating – plans are progressing.  Tabled until after Picnic in the Park.
– LEO – Leadership, Experience, and Opportunity

Meeting Closed at 1:04pm … record breaking Board Meeting

Meeting – January 18, 2024

Friday, January 19th, 2024

BLC Meeting Recap – Thursday, January 18, 2024
Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook
“If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”

Members Present: Mike Matthews, Jon Fontenot, Danny Dossman, Karen Stagner, David Leigh, Todd Schiller, Keith Cook, David Tuma, Billy Conway, Sam Listi, Jennifer Bailey, John Corsi

Guest: Jennifer Ramirez, BISD Penguin Project Program Coordinator/Executive Director of Special Programs (speaker); Sara Windham, BISD Director of Special Programs (guest of Todd Schiller)
Song: by Jennifer Ramirez
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Jon Fontenot
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Billy Conway
Prayer: Lion David Leigh
Joke: Lion Dossman – Koala – a Bear? – no Koalafications! / Lion Leigh – Frankenstein’s New Years Resolution – Make new Friends!
Plate Spin: Lion Todd Schiller – outstanding!
Exercise: Lion Mike Matthews
Birthdays: January – Steve Smith, At-Large (1/21)

Announcements:
– 1st 2024 BLC Board Meeting will be TODAY after lunch
– MD2-X3 Mid-Winter Cabinet Meeting – Saturday, January 27, McGregor, Texas – Karen, Keith & Mary going
– Reminder: Chief Ellis Retirement Celebration – February 1, 3pm Cadence Bank Club – see you there.

Program: Lion Jennifer Bailey invited Jennifer Ramirez to give us an update on the Penguin Project.  Within one year, the program has tripled.  Their next production will be in April 2024 – Finding Nemo Jr.  This is an amazing program – an inclusive opportunity, for students of all ages, with special needs – paired with partnering mentor students – to express themselves through theater – acting, singing, dancing – props, costumes and so much more.  We are so fortunate that B.I.S.D. has a heart for loving the Special Needs Community.  Thank You!

Future Programs:
January 25 – Cri Childs
February 1 – Karen Stagner – Chief Gene Ellis, bringing incoming Chief Larry Berg
February 8 – John Corsi
February 15 – Reese Davis
February 22 – Brett Beamesderfer
February 29 – Mike Matthews
March 7 – David Shaw
March 14 – Christa Strang
March 21 – James Harrison

Thank Guests for Coming!
Remember, where there is a need, there is a Lion!

Keeping on the Front Burner:
– Texas Lions Camp online applications are open NOW – we have a camper for the July 23rd Weekend.
– Stampede Date Update from Meeting (Brett Beamesderfer, Reese Davis, Jennah Gliha, Bree Vlam, Veronica Logan, Christa Strang, Karen Stagner, John Corsi) – Date changed to June 8th.
– Charter Celebration – (James Harrison, Cri Childs, David Leigh, Rob Potts, Mark Bellomy, John Fontenot) 85th Anniversary of the Belton Lions Club – Belton Lions Club first met in 1938; Chartered April 21st 1939. Celebration scheduled for Friday, May 3rd in the evening.  Lion Harrison advised that we have two sponsoring underwriters; and are urging others to sponsor; members and guests will be sponsored.  He plans to invite District Dignitaries to join us as our guests. Next planning meeting will be scheduled after the Fundraiser Cruise.
– Plate Spinning Winner Presentation
– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
– Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
– James Harrison announced that Temple Founders Club member, Mr. Hightower, would like our Club to consider partnering with them for their annual Follies fundraiser event.
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Meeting – January 11, 2024

Saturday, January 13th, 2024

BLC Meeting Recap – Thursday, January 11, 2024
Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook
“If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”

Members Present: Christa Strang, Brett Beamesderfer, Karen Stagner, Jennah Gliha, Bree Vlam, Jon Fontenot, James Harrison, Keith Cook, Gene Ellis, Sam Listi, Mac Hickerson, Billy Conway, Cree Childs
Guest: Clarence Enochs (speaker), Paul Strang & Dave Carr (guests of Christa Strang)
Song: by Lion Christa Strang
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Brett Beamesderfer
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Jon Fontenot
Prayer: Lion Gene Ellis
Joke: Lion Dossman – Bad Joke of the Day – Hollywod Actor & Agent  / Lion Childs – Switzerland – Big “+”
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson – record breaking spin
Exercise: Lion James Harrison
Birthdays: January – Steve Smith, At-Large (1/21)

Announcements:

– Congratulations to Lion Malinda Golden as selected Acting Superintendent for B.I.S.D. School District!

– Lion Lou Griffin is doing better after his surgery; he has knee surgery on the 22nd; hopes to be back with us soon.
– Lion Reese Davis will be out for the next few weeks, he has surgery is scheduled for January 26th.
– We received a Thank You letter through HOCTIL from Ronald McDonald House for the Christmas Goodie bags that were donated after the HOCTIL Christmas with Santa.
– 1st 2024 BLC Board Meeting will be on January 18th
– Texas Lions Camp online applications are open NOW – we have a camper for the July 23rd Weekend.
– Stampede Date Update from Meeting (Brett Beamesderfer, Reese Davis, Jennah Gliha, Bree Vlam, Veronica Logan, Christa Strang, Karen Stagner, John Corsi) – Date changed to June 8th.
– Charter Celebration – (James Harrison, Cri Childs, David Leigh, Rob Potts, Mark Bellomy, John Fontenot) 85th Anniversary of the Belton Lions Club – Belton Lions Club first met in 1938; Chartered April 21st 1939. Celebration scheduled for Friday, May 3rd in the evening.  Lion Harrison advised that we have two sponsoring underwriters; and are urging others to sponsor; members and guests will be sponsored.  He plans to invite District Dignitaries to join us as our guests. Next planning meeting will be scheduled after the Fundraiser Cruise.
– 2024 Fundraiser Cruise – Carnival Jubilee – January 13-20, 2024 – Have FUN!
– MD2-X3 Mid-Winter Cabinet Meeting – Saturday, January 27, McGregor, Texas – RSVP by January 19th
– Chief Ellis Retirement Celebration – February 1, 3pm Cadence Bank Club – see you there.

Program: Lion Bree Vlam has invited Clarence Enochs, with the National Mounted Warfare Foundation

Future Programs:
January 18 – Jennifer Bailey (Penguin Project Update) – plus Board Meeting
January 25 – Cri Childs
February 1 – Karen Stagner – Chief Gene Ellis, bringing incoming Chief Larry Berg
February 8 – John Corsi
February 15 – Reese Davis
February 22 – Brett Beamesderfer
February 29 – Mike Matthews
March 7 – David Shaw
March 14 – Christa Strang
March 21 – James Harrison

Thank Guests for Coming!
Remember, where there is a need, there is a Lion!

Keeping on the Front Burner:
Plate Spinning Winner Presentation
Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
James Harrison announced that Temple Founders Club member, Mr. Hightower, would like our Club to consider partnering with them for their annual Follies fundraiser event.
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Meeting – January 4, 2024

Sunday, January 7th, 2024
BLC Order of Business – Thursday, January 4, 2024 – Happy New Year!
Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook / “If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”

Members Present: Mike Matthews, Jon Fontenot, Brett Beamesderfer, Danny Dossman, Karen Stagner, Billy Conway, James Harrison, Wayne Carpenter, Sam Listi, Jennah Gliha, Mac Hickerson, Veronica Logan, Dwayne Williams

Guest: PDG Lawrence Sanchez (speaker) and wife, Sylvia; Joseph Logan (guest of Veronica Logan)
Song: by Lion Jennah Gliha
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Brett Beamesderfer
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Billy Conway
Prayer: Lion Keith Cook
Joke: Guest Joseph Logan … Quiet Tennis … without racket
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion James Harrison
Birthdays: January – Steve Smith, At-Large (1/21)

Announcements:

– HOCTIL Pictures with Santa Recap – Thank you to Mike Matthews, Bree Vlam, Jennah Gliha, Christa Strang, Keith Cook and Karen Stagner for the set-up and tear-down; to everyone who contributed cookies; to the City of Belton for the use of Harris Center; and to Belton Parks and Recreation … and, of course, Santa & Mrs Clause.
– 1st 2024 BLC Board Meeting will be on January 18th
– Texas Lions Camp online applications are open NOW – our Club is planning to have two Campers this year.
– 2nd Quarter (Oct. thru Dec.) Dues Invoices emailed on Tuesday – 1st to pay today – Lion Dwayne Williams
– Flag Program renewal invoices emailed this week – received out first payment today – Lion Sam Listi
– Stampede Date may need to be changed – (Brett Beamesderfer, Reese Davis, Jennah Gliha, Bree Vlam, Veronica Logan, Christa Strang, Karen Stagner, John Corsi) – Committee Meeting Scheduled for 11:30am, Thursday, January 11th, before lunch
– Charter Celebration – (James Harrison, Cri Childs, David Leigh, Rob Potts, Mark Bellomy, John Fontenot) 85th Anniversary of the Belton Lions Club – Belton Lions Club first met in 1938; Chartered April 21st 1939. Celebration scheduled for Friday, May 3rd in the evening.  Lion Harrison advised that we have two sponsoring underwriters; and are urging others to sponsor; members and guests will be sponsored.  He plans to invite District Dignitaries to join us as our guests.
– 2024 Fundraiser Cruise – Carnival Jubilee – January 13-20, 2024 – Have FUN!
– MD2-X3 Mid-Winter Cabinet Meeting – Saturday, January 27, McGregor, Texas – RSVP by January 19th
– Chief Ellis Retirement Celebration – February 1, 3pm Cadence Bank Club – see you there.

Program: PDG Lawrence Sanchez, Texas Lions Museum – handout attached – The Lions of Texas passed a resolution designating the Texas Lions Museum as an official state project of the Texas Lions on May 18, 2017. The Museum officially opened at the Council of Governors meeting in August 2024.  Thank you!

Future Programs:
January 11 – Bree Vlam
January 18 – Jennifer Bailey (Penguin Project Update) – plus Board Meeting
January 25 – Cri Childs
February 1 – Karen Stagner
February 8 – John Corsi
February 15 – Reese Davis
February 22 – Brett Beamesderfer
February 29 – Mike Matthews
March 7 – David Shaw
March 14 – Christa Strang
March 21 – James Harrison

Thank Guests for Coming!
Remember, where there is a need, there is a Lion!

Keeping on the Front Burner:
Plate Spinning Winner Presentation
Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
James Harrison announced that Temple Founders Club member, Mr. Hightower, would like our Club to consider partnering with them for their annual Follies fundraiser event.
Texas Lions Museum
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Meeting & Christmas Party – December 14, 2023

Sunday, December 17th, 2023

Belton Lions Club
Meeting & Christmas Party
Thursday, December 14

Welcome and Call to Order: President Keith Cook

Attendance: Keith Cook, John Corsi, Rob Potts, Mark Bellomy, Mary Shockley, Jennah Gliha, Mac Hickerson, James Harrison, Karen Stagner, Danny Dossman, Mike Matthews, Jon Fontenot, Veronica Logan, Wayne Carpenter, Bree Vlam, Billy Conway

Guests: Trellis Cook, Angie Fontenot, Ann Carpenter, Susan Mitchell (Harrison), Chris Gregg, Kitti Corsi, Joseph Logan, Brian (guest of Mark Bellomy)

LBHS two Person Ensemble: Rachel and Emily

Song: Ann Carpenter

USA Pledge: Lion John Corsi

Texas Pledge: Lion Mike Matthews

Prayer and Blessing of the Meal: Lion Wayne Carpenter

Announcements:

– Next Thursday is HOCTIL families Christmas with Santa, Harris Center

– Next BLC meeting will be January 4 – Mark Bellomy has the Program

– Tail Twister announced final tally for 2023 – $602.00

– Passing the Hat for our waitress Tabitha – Presentation

– Buffet opens at Noon

Christmas Party & Ugly Sweater Contest

Merry Christmas!
Thanks for Coming!

Where there is a need … there is a Belton Lion!

Meeting – December 7, 2023

Sunday, December 10th, 2023

BLC Meeting Recap – Thursday, December 7th
Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook
“If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”
Members Present: Jon Fontenot, Danny Dossman, Karen Stagner, Billy Conway, Keith Cook, Dwayne Williams, Rob Potts, Jennifer Bailey, Hillary Hickland, Mac Hickerson, Jennah Gliha, Bree Vlam, Sam Listi

Guest: Gabby Nino, BISD
Song: by Lion Bree Vlam
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Dwayne Williams
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Billy Conway
Prayer: Lion Hillary Hickland

Joke: Lion Danny Dossman – Santa didn’t have to pay for his sleigh … it was “on the house”.
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion Jon Fontenot

Birthdays: December Birthdays: Reese Davis (12/10); Sam Listi (12/17); Mark Bellomy (12/18)

Announcements:

BISD Project HEARTbeat Christmas.  Jennifer Bailey – Wrapped or unwrapped and tagged Gifts due TODAY!

December Board Meeting – Reminder – We will NOT have a December Board Meeting.

HOCTIL Christmas Baskets – Christa Strang and Bree Vlam – Delivery will be after our Christmas Party on the 14th.

BLC Lunch Christmas Party – David Leigh – members eat free – guests $35 invoiced to member. Menu: Ribs and Fried Catfish, Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes, Corn on the Cob & Coleslaw.  Wear your ugliest Christmas sweater! … there will be prizes! … and live music!

– Thursday, December 21stHOCTIL Christmas with Santa Claus – Harris Community Center – Karen Stagner Coordinating –

5:00-8pm, set-up will begin at Noon.  Cookie Sign-up sheet passing (need about 15 dozen cookies for 180+ kiddos & family)/ Volunteer Set-up and Servers Sign-up sheet passed.

Program: Thank you, Lion(s) Todd Schiller and Jennifer Bailey for inviting guest speaker, Denise Ayres, director of PK-12 Career Readiness for Belton ISD. She is in charge of the Career, Technical and Education (CTE). CTE challenges, prepares and empowers students with knowledge and skills to tackle the real world. Thank you, Denise!

Future Programs:
December 14 – Christmas Party & HOCTIL Food Basket Deliveries
December 21 – No Meeting – Christmas/New Years
December 28 – No Meeting – Christmas/New Years
January 4 – Mark Bellomy
January 11 – Bree Vlam
January 18 – Jennifer Bailey
January 25 – Cri Childs
February 1 – Karen Stagner
February 8 – John Corsi
February 15 – Reese Davis
February 22 – Brett Beamesderfer
February 29 – Mike Matthews
March 7 – David Shaw
March 14 – Christa Strang
March 21 – James Harrison

Thank Guests for Coming!
Remember, where there is a need, there is a Lion!eeping on the Front Burner:

Plate Spinning Winner Presentation

Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
85th Anniversary of the Belton Lions Club – James Harrison is planning a Celebration. James explained that Belton Lions Club first met in 1938; then Chartered April 21st 1939.
2024 Fundraiser Cruise – Carnival Jubilee – January 13-20, 2024 – posted on facebook and on our website

James Harrison announced that Temple Founders Club member, Mr. Hightower, would like our Club to consider partnering with them for their annual Follies fundraiser event.
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Meeting – November 30, 2023

Saturday, December 2nd, 2023

BLC Meeting Recap – November 30, 2023
Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook
“If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”

Members Present: Keith Cook, Veronica Logan, Christa Strang, Mike Matthews, Danny Dossman, Karen Stagner, Hillary Hickland, Jennah Gliha, Mac Hickerson, Billy Conway, Sam Listi, Jon Fontenot, Jennifer Bailey, Jammes Harrison, Mark Bellomy, Rob Potts, Gene Ellis, David Leigh, Mary Shockley

Guest: Joseph Logan (guest of Veronica Logan)
Song: by Lion Christa Strang
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Danny Dossman
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Jon Fontenot
Prayer: Lion Rob Potts
Joke: Lion James Harrison – Lawrence Welk’s twin daughters – Anna 1 … Anna 2
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion James Harrison
Birthdays: November Birthdays: David Leigh (11/14), Karen Stagner (11/14), Patti Powell (11/17)

New Member Inductions: 

Announcements:

– Congratulations to Lion Mark Bellomy for giving a generous donation to the Texas Lions Camp. He was presented the Century Club Key Holder! Way to go Lion Mark! “If there is a need, there is a Lion”

– BISD Project HEARTbeat Christmas for homeless kids.  Jennifer Bailey – Wrapped or unwrapped and tagged Gifts are due back by our December 7th lunch Meeting.

– December Board Meeting – We will NOT have a December Board Meeting.

– HOCTIL Christmas Baskets – Christa Strang and Bree Vlam – sign up sheet passing – Delivery will be after our Christmas Party on the 14th.

– BLC Lunch Christmas Party – David Leigh – sign up sheet passing – members eat free – guests $35 invoiced to member. Menu: Ribs and, either, Herb Roasted Chicken Halves or Fried Catfish (decision made for Fried Catfish), Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes, Corn on the Cob & Coleslaw.  Contract with Dead Fish Grill signed and turned in today. Wear your ugliest sweater!

– Thursday, December 21stHOCTIL Christmas with Santa Claus – Harris Community Center – Karen Stagner Coordinating – 5:30-8pm, set-up will begin at Noon.  Team: Patti Powell, Bree Vlam, Christa Strang, Jennah Gliha, Keith Cook.  Cookie Sign-up sheet next week / Volunteer Set-up and Servers Sign-up sheet next week.

– Club Metrics: 1,479 people served / 10 Service Activities Completed, 660 Volunteer Hours, $7,500 Funds Donated, $2,900 Funds Raised. Note: Stampede takes place near the end of the LCI calendar year which runs from July 1 to June 30th each year. Stampede 2023 Profit was $8K +.

Program: Thank you Lion Veronica Logan for inviting Christine Ochoa with Helping Hands Ministry of Belton

. Helping Hands Ministry is always welcoming volunteers and donations, such as food, goods and clothing. Thanks you, Christine, for serving our community and giving back!

Future Programs:
December 7 – Todd Schiller
December 14 – Christmas Party & HOCTIL Food Basket Deliveries
December 21 – No Meeting – Christmas/New Years
December 28 – No Meeting – Christmas/New Years

Thank Guests for Coming!
Remember, where there is a need, there is a Lion!

Keeping on the Front Burner:
Plate Spinning Winner Presentation
Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
85th Anniversary of the Belton Lions Club – James Harrison is planning a Celebration. James explained that Belton Lions Club first met in 1938; then Chartered in 1939.
2024 Fundraiser Cruise – Carnival Jubilee – January 13-20, 2024 – posted on facebook and on our website
James Harrison announced that Temple Founders Club member, Mr. Hightower, would like our Club to consider partnering with them for their annual Follies fundraiser event.
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Meeting – November 16, 2023

Friday, November 17th, 2023

BLC Meeting Order of Business – November 16, 2023|
Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook
“If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”

Members Present: Keith Cook, Jon Fontenot, David Leigh, Wayne Carpenter, Danny Dossman, Gene Ellis, David Tuma, Mary Shockley, Mac Hickerson, Mark Bellomy, James Harrison, Billy Conway, Karen Stagner, Jennifer Bailey, Malinda Golden, Todd Schiller, Rob Potts, Jennah Gliha, Bree Vlam

Guest: Buddy Hickerson (guest of Mac Hickerson); Jeff Glover (speaker)
Song: by Lion Jennah Gliha
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Mark Bellomy
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Jon Fontenot
Prayer: Lion David Leigh
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion James Harrison

Birthdays: November Birthdays: David Leigh (11/14), Karen Stagner (11/14), Patti Powell (11/17)

– Board Meeting – Recap

  – After Board Discussion & further discussion with Lea Batey, Temple-Belton Ladies Lions, the Board voted to partner with our sister Club.  TBLL will continue screening.  After TBLL pre-screens for insurance or other financial resources, the underserved adult or child will be referred to Wildflower Vision for Dr. visit and eyeglasses.  Wildflower Vision will invoice Belton Lions Club directly for those residing in Belton, Texas. Should we reach our budgeted amount during the year, the Board will re-evaluate the $500 annual budget for assistance.  # SightFirst … Belton Lions helping our Belton Community!

 – Club Christmas Party, Thursday, December 14, during lunch: Belton Lions eat free; guests will pay $35 – invoiced with dues.  Menu will be ribs and fried fish or roasted chicken (TBD) with vegetables.  Christmas Team incudes: James Harrison, Mark Bellomy, Christa Strang, Jennah Gliha, David Leigh, Keith Cook & John Corsi.  Team Leader: David Leigh … stay tuned … it sounds like we’re having an ugly sweater contest!

Announcements:
– HOCTIL Thanksgiving Baskets –Delivery TODAY.  Thank you, each, for your generosity – helping these families of children with special needs.  Thank you to our members for volunteering to deliver.
– BISD Project HEARTbeat Christmas for homeless kids.  Jennifer Bailey – Please select a child’s tag to support these kiddos for Christmas. Wrapped or unwrapped and tagged Gifts are due back by our December 7th lunch Meeting.
– December Board Meeting – We will NOT have a December Board Meeting.
– Club Metrics: 1,459 people served / 9 Service Activities Completed, 595 Volunteer Hours, $7,500 Funds Donated, $2,900 Funds Raised. Note: Stampede takes place near the end of the LCI calendar year which runs from July 1 to June 30th each year. Stampede 2023 Profit was $8K +.

Program: Jon Fontenot has invited Jeff Glover, the new Deputy Fire Marshal for the City of Belton who introduced himself and discussed the direction of the Fire Marshal’s office. Thank you!  Great to meet our new Deputy Fire Marshal and hear his growth and service plans.

Future Programs:
November 23 – No Meeting – Thanksgiving
November 30 – Veronica Logan
December 7 – Todd Schiller
December 14 – Christmas Party & HOCTIL Food Basket Deliveries
December 21 – No Meeting – Christmas/New Years
December 28 – No Meeting – Christmas/New Years

Thank Guests for Coming!
Remember, where there is a need, there is a Lion!

Keeping on the Front Burner:
Plate Spinning Winner Presentation
Thursday, December 21stHOCTIL Christmas with Santa Claus – Harris Community Center – Karen Stagner Coordinating
Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
85th Anniversary of the Belton Lions Club – James Harrison is planning a Celebration. James explained that Belton Lions Club first met in 1938; then Chartered in 1939.
2024 Fundraiser Cruise – Carnival Jubilee – January 13-20, 2024 – posted on facebook and on our website
James Harrison announced that Temple Founders Club member, Mr. Hightower, would like our Club to consider partnering with them for their annual Follies fundraiser event.

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Board Meeting – November 9, 2023

Saturday, November 11th, 2023
BLC November BOARD Meeting Recap – November 9, 2023

Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook @ 12.56pm

Members Present: Danny Dossman, Keith Cook, James Harrison, Karen Stagner, Christa Strang, Jon Fontenot, Mac Hickerson
Absent: Mike Matthews, Jennah Gliha, Mark Bellomy, John Corsi

Membership Report – Karen Stagner – Invoices for 1st Quarter 2023-2024 have been issued. 7 members unpaid.
Regular Members – 29
Affiliate Members – 1
At-Large Members – 9
 Total – 39

Associate Member – 1

Treasurer Report –
  General Account – $8,459.70
Activity Account – $33.948.77

Old Business:
– Update on Cadence Bank – CD and other – The Club’s General Account was compromised several months back.  The issue has been resolved.  However, the current issue with Cadence Bank is with the debit cards.  It seems to be a programming issue within the Bank.  Treasurer Fontenot and David Shaw will hold off on opening any CDs until he gets the debit card issue resolved.  Our General Account balance looks high, but that is due to no lunch meals monies for over a month coming out of the account; and quarterly dues payments are coming in. Danny Dossman will look into other options for banking and report at our next Board Meeting.

– Membership Milestones –The Board agreed that Milestones will be in five (5) year increments; starting at 10 year membership.  Several members will explore options for Milestone awards – tabled until John Corsi and Jennah Gliha are available to report.

– Partnering with Temple-Belton Ladies Lions for eyeglasses and exams through their member connection for discounted costs. Discussion – Lea Batey was invited to sit with the Board and answer questions. Our Club members have expressed desire to learn to perform eye screenings. Yet until then, it was agreed that TBLL continue screening.  Lea estimated that the maximum number of Belton children and adults needing to be referred to Wildflower Vision.  The families are pre-screened for insurance or other financial resources.  Only the underserved, underinsured are underwritten by Lions Clubs.  Several years ago, Belton Lions Club Board agreed to budget $500 per year to assist with Dr. Visit Eye Exam and Glasses. After discussion, it was agreed that TBLL would continue screening; and anyone residing in Belton, needing to be referred to Wildflower Vision (based on pre-screening for financial resources); TBLL would email BLC Club Secretary advising of the referral; then Wildflower Vision would invoice BLC directly.  Once our Club reaches our budgeted $500 per year expenditure, the Board will meet to consider raising the budget for the year.  Jon Fontenot motioned to accept the plan; 2nd James Harrison; approved. TBLL will restart vision screenings in January.

– The Club Christmas Party – Thursday, December 14th during lunch – we will have a buffet meal.  Lions eat free; guests will pay buffet price, + tip – invoiced with dues.  Christa Strang selected the Cliffside Meal Menu.  Keith Cook will arrange for the Belton High School choir. Team includes: James Harrison, Mark Bellomy, Christa Strang, Jennah Gliha, David Leigh, Keith Cook, John Corsi

Club Metrics: 1,459 people served / 9 Service Activities Completed, 595 Volunteer Hours, $7,500 Funds Donated, $2,900 Funds Raised
Danny Dossman questioned funds donated vs funds raised.  The clarification is that the Bike Ride takes place before the July 1st Lions year; and the Heritage Park donation takes place after the July 1st Lions year.

New Business: 

– Banner Stand and/or Specialty Products – Danny Dossman is going to build a banner stand explaining who we are as Belton Lions – to be used at Boat Race, Bike Ride, Fall Festival and other events.  We found Lions squeeze toys; and the previous BLC giant coloring book (given to Lea and Lorna to look into at the District and State level).  Fall Festival give-aways were about 50 of each item. We will revisit this at next meeting. 

Holding to a Later Date:
– District Cabinet Meetings – January 27, McGregor / April 26-27
– David Shaw – Deployment bags are requested for our Adopted Unit – tabled until Lion Shaw is able to provide details.
– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating – plans are progressing.  Tabled until after Picnic in the Park.
– LEO – Leadership, Experience, and Opportunity
– Charter Night – James Harrison – 85th Anniversary is April 21st ; celebration will be April 18th or April 25th if it’s a lunchtime meeting.  To schedule the Charter Night in the evening, James and Mark will solicit a sponsor for $2,500. If a sponsor is secured, we will have the Charter Night Celebration on a Friday night; and we will not have a lunch meeting that week.  The Dead Fish Grill buffet menu is the same price for dinner as it is for lunch.

Meeting Closed at 1:25pm


Meeting – November 9, 2023

Saturday, November 11th, 2023
BLC Meeting Recap – November 9, 2023

Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook
“If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”

Members Present: Keith Cook, Christa Strang, Jon Fontenot, Danny Dossman, Karen Stagner, Mary Shockley, James Harrison, Reese Davis, Rob Potts, David Tuma, Hillary Hickland, Mac Hickerson, Cri Childs

Guest: Lea Batey & Lorna Brockett (Temple Belton Ladies Lions), Buddy Hickerson (guest of Mac Hickerson)
Song: by Lion Mary Shockley
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Jon Fontenot
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Danny Dossman
Prayer: Lion Keith Cook
Joke: Lion Danny Dossman – Terms of Endearment – had to be there!
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion James Harrison

Birthdays: November Birthdays: David Leigh (11/14), Karen Stagner (11/14), Patti Powell (11/17)

Announcements:

– Board Meeting – TODAY – after Lunch
– HOCTIL Thanksgiving Baskets –Delivery scheduled for November 16th.
– Plate Spinning Winner Presentation – pass both plates for signatures – Lion Jon Fontenot reported that the winner of the contest will let us know his first available Thursday – the Club will also invite Judy Garrett, Belton Tourism and Development, to join the presentation.
– BISD has identified a student for Texas Lions Camp – we will get with Dick Chapin and Angela Cases for our next steps
– Thank you Christa Strang and Bree Vlam for accepting the Team Lead for our HOCTIL Food Baskets – 3 times per year.  Christmas Basket Sign-up will be available at the November 30th meeting.
– Thank You Jennifer Bailey for accepting the Team Lead for BISD Project HEARTbeat Christmas for homeless kids.
Tags will be available from BISD 11/15 to be distributed 11/16 at our lunch Meeting.  Gifts are due back at our December 7th lunch Meeting.

Program: Temple-Belton Lady Lion Lea Batey, District Sight Chair, presented their eye screening, referral, eyeglass purchase program; proposing to partner with Belton Lions for Belton youth and adults.  Bud Sterling, Temple Founder Club does the eye screening for BISD schools. Head Start and Body of Christ also do screenings. Temple Belton Ladies Lions has partnered with Wildflower Vision for $120 Dr. visit eye exams and glasses. Their Club is hoping to partner with Belton Lions to offset the cost to their Club for Belton children and adults who need to be referred to Eye Doctor. The Board will address the request in today’s Board Meeting.

Future Programs:
November 16 – Jon Fontenot & HOCTIL Food Basket Deliveries
November 23 – No Meeting – Thanksgiving
November 30 – Veronica Logan
December 7 – Todd Schiller
December 14 – Christmas Party & HOCTIL Food Basket Deliveries
December 21 – No Meeting – Christmas/New Years
December 28 – No Meeting – Christmas/New Years

Thank Guests for Coming!
Remember, where there is a need, there is a Lion!

Keeping on the Front Burner:
Thursday, December 21stHOCTIL Christmas with Santa Claus – Harris Community Center – Karen Stagner Coordinating
Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
85th Anniversary of the Belton Lions Club – James Harrison is planning a Celebration. James explained that Belton Lions Club first met in 1938; then Chartered in 1939.
2024 Fundraiser Cruise – Carnival Jubilee – January 13-20, 2024 – posted on facebook and on our website
James Harrison announced that Temple Founders Club member, Mr. Hightower, would like our Club to consider partnering with them for their annual Follies fundraiser event.

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