Belton Lions Club

BLC Meeting Recap – August 10th
Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook
“If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”

Members Present: Keith Cook, Mac Hickerson, Jon Corsi, Mike Matthews, Jon Fontenot, Karen Stagner, Dwayne Williams, James Harrison, Mark Bellomy, John Potts, Wayne Carpenter, Sam Listi, Reese David, Brett Beamesderfer
Guest: Mack Lattimer (Associate), Hillary Hickland (pd), Dick Chapin (speaker)
Song: by Lion David Leigh
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Mark Bellomy
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Mack Hickerson
Prayer: Lion Keith Cook
Joke: Lion Mac Hickerson – cows can sing in the same key … beef flat
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion Mike Matthews – short and sweet
Birthdays: James Harrison (7/30), Malinda Golden (8/23), Mike Matthews (8/3)

Announcements:

Lion Christa Strang and her family are lifted up in prayer.  Prayers for Lou Griffin who recently had knee replacement; then fell and broke his hip. Congratulations to Mac Hickerson regarding the UMHB announcement to name the new Golf Complex after him and his late wife, Jane.

MD 2 x3 District Cabinet Meeting, August 12^th, Hillsboro – President Keith Cook and Secretary Karen Stagner will be attending – We can promote the Lions on the Leon Event to all of the Clubs in our District.

 Lions on the Leon Picnic in the Park, October 7th – The October 7^th planning meeting was postponed … new date to be announced.

Program: Lion Dick Chapin, Texas Lions Camp – and donation check(s) by BLC and Lion Dwayne Williams.  Camp Director, Lion Dick Chapin presented a slide show about the history of the Texas Lions Camp (chartered in 1949), to where we are today.  https://lionscamp.com/ Thank You!  2024 Camp work days: 1^st Saturday in March, April & May.  During Camp best visit days on Friday Graduations!

After the Presentation:  Lion Dwayne Williams presented Lion Chapin with a check donation to Texas Lions Camp; and the Club also presented a check donation for the Camp.

Future Program Assignments:
August 17 – John Corsi            Board Meeting Afterward
August 24 – Karen Stagner –Representative Hugh D. Shine – Legislative Update  
September 7 – Lou Griffin
September 14 – Christa Strang
September 21 – Jennah Gliha
September 28 – Danny Dossman

Keeping on the Front Burner:
Bell County Senior Expo – September 26^th – 8am-1pm.  Sign-up sheet
Jennah, Keith, Cree & Karen have signed up so far. Wear your BLC t-shirt.
Bacon, Blues & Brews Plate Spinning Contest, Saturday, September 30^th, Downtown Belton – make plans to help sell People’s Choice Tickets – sign up sheet will be passed closer to event.
Saturday, October 21^st: HOCTIL Fall Festival – Save the Date – giving out goodies and candy
Thursday, December 21^st: HOCTIL Christmas with Santa Claus – Harris Community Center??
Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
85^th 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 – now posted on facebook and on our website
2024 Stampede on the Chisholm Trail – we need to set a date for the event.

BLC Meeting Recap – July 27, 2023

Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook
Members Present: Keith Cook, Brett Beamesderfer, Jon Fontenot, Mike Matthews, Karen Stagner, Jennah Gliha, Billy Conway, Dwayne Williams, Mac Hickerson, David Leigh

Guest: Mack Lattimer (Affiliate Member); Carla Beamesderfer (speaker)
Song: by Lion David Leigh
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Brett Beamesderfer
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Jon Fontenot
Prayer: Lion Keith Cook
Joke: Lion David Leigh – It’s sooo hot … how hot is it?   Extreme jokes for extreme heat …
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion Mike Matthews

Board Meeting Recap:

Dwayne Williams expressed that they want to make a donation to Texas Lions Camp.  The Board voted to make a $500 donation to the Camp; to go along with the donation from Dwayne Williams.  Camp District Director Dick Chapin will present an update on the Camp on August 10^th, where we will make the donations.  The Board also voted to sponsor a child to the 2024 Texas Lions Camp.

John Corsi suggested that starting January 2024, we distribute a list of all committees; then, each member may choose which committee they want to help.  John Corsi will provide a list of events and committees (work groups) to get the process started.

Treasurer Jon Fontenot has set up the Club with a Square account.  Dues can now be paid through Credit Card.

Announcements:

Thank you Christa Strang for bringing three (3) new Flag Program participants.

Back to School with God Event, July 29^th, (this coming Saturday), Yettie Polk Park, 9am-1pm. Temple Lion Wilkey will do the eye screenings.  Belton Lions will help with “serving” the hot dogs, chips & drinks.  Wear your BLC t-shirt. Sign-up: Keith Cook, Mike Matthews, Jon Fontenot, Mack Latimer, Karen Stagner, Jennah Gliha, John Corsi, Keith Cook. Karen is bringing the Lions Aprons.

MD 2 x3 District Cabinet Meeting, August 12^th, Hillsboro – President Keith Cook and Secretary Karen Stagner will be attending – We can promote the Lions on the Leon Event to all of the Clubs in our District.  Anyone else want to carpool, Saturday, August 12^th? 

Bell County Senior Expo – September 26^th – Kimberly Cables, Belton Journal is our contact for the 8am-1pm event.  Sign-up sheet passed – Jennah, Keith, Cree & Karen have signed up so far. Sign-up to volunteer if you can – see Secretary.  Wear your BLC t-shirt.

Bacon, Blues & Brews Plate Spinning Contest, Saturday, September 30^th, Downtown Belton – make plans to help sell People’s Choice Tickets – sign up sheet will be passed closer to event. 

Lions on the Leon Wacky Boat Race, Oct 7th – the Ship is in dry dock.  Capt D will be back on August 16^th.

Lions on the Leon Picnic in the Park, October 7th – Next planning meeting and site visit will be TODAY, July 27^th, 1:30pm (following Lions Lunch) – with a “site visit”.

Saturday, October 21^st: HOCTIL Fall Festival – Save the Date – giving out goodies and candy

Thursday, December 21^st: HOCTIL Christmas with Santa Claus – Harris Community Center??

Program:  Brett Beamesderfer and his wife, Carla are working with Belton Middle School to start a LEO Club.  This club will have such a positive impact on the students. They will acquire skills that will teach them positive traits and to work as a team to change the Community and World!  Thank You!

Future Program Assignments:
August 3 – James Harrison – State of the Club
August 10 – Mike Matthews – Lion Dick Chapin, Texas Lions Camp – and donation check(s)
August 17 – David Shaw
August 24 – Karen Stagner –Representative Hugh D. Shine – Legislative Update

Keeping on the Front Burner:
Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
85^th 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 – now posted on facebook and on our website

BLC July BOARD Meeting Recap – July 20, 2023

Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook at 1:02pm

Members Present: Keith Cook, Mike Matthews, Danny Dossman, Mac Hickerson, John Corsi, Jon Fontenot, Karen Stagner

Absent: Veronica Logan, Jennah Gliha, James Harrison

Membership Report – Karen Stagner – Invoices have been issued for 4^th Quarter (April thru June 2023)

Membership Summary

Treasurer Report –

            General Account: $3,460.35 (7/13/2023)

Foundation Account: $34,084.94 (7/18/23)

Raymond James/Gunter Savings/Investment: $10,832.44 (June 30, 2023)

Edward Jones Savings/Investment: $23,064.77 (June 30, 2023)

New Business:

– Dwayne Williams would like to make a donation to Texas Lions Camp. Club Secretary will invite a District Representative to the Camp to speak at the August 10^th meeting; and the Club will present a $500 donation check to the Texas Lions Camp; along with Lion William’s donation.  Motion to make a $500 donation made by Jon Fontenot; 2^nd by Mike Matthews; approved.  Club Secretary will also reach out to HOCTIL to about sponsoring one of their children with special needs to next year’s Camp that begins in June – approved by the Board.

– David Shaw – Deployment bags are requested for our Adopted Unit – tabled until Lion Shaw is able to provide details.

– CD Rates at Cadence Bank – maybe move some $$ to CDs.  Cadence Bank is offering 8 month and 16 month CD’s at 5.00% and 5.25%.  Danny Dossman motioned that the Club move savings money to CD’s; Jon Fontenot will get with David Shaw (current contact on savings accounts); 2^nd by Mac Hickerson; approved to move forward with tentative start date after next Club meeting (John Corsi abstaining)

– Creating Committees – John Corsi suggested that starting in January 2024, we distribute a list of all committees; then, each member may choose which committee they want to help.  John Corsi will provide a list of events and committees (work group) to get the process started.  New members may choose a work group, or accept an assignment.

Old Business: 

– LCI Club Excellence Award – We are waiting on District Governor to approve – only hiccup might be because we haven’t made an LCI Foundation donation.  Club Secretary will reach out to PDG McCleaves again.

– LEO – Leadership, Experience, and Opportunity – Brett Beamesderfer is planning his program on the Leo Club – his speaker on the LEO Club will be Carla Beamesderfer.

– Flag Program: There are only 2 program participants that have not paid.  Christa Strang recruited 3 new participants today! 

– Credit Cards – Jon Fontenot – update – Square – Jon Fontenot can set up a Square account for the General Account; then if money is for the Foundation, he can transfer the money.  Money can be moved from the General Account to the Foundation Account – but, not the other way.  For events, we will have the portable ATM; so we will not need the CC availability on-site.  Jon can monitor the account on his computer; but he cannot put the Square app on his City Phone.  Dues can be paid through Credit Card – Club Secretary will provide a Credit Card Authorization form and Jon will “key” the information into the account.

– Picnic in the Park / Wacky Boat Race Expenses – update – Christa Strang and Danny Dossman – Thank you to Mike Matthews and Chris Gregg, the boat is stored and wrapped.  Work Group meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 24^th, 6pm, Danny’s – Publicity, Sponsorships, Vendors, Food Trucks, Car Show.  Picnic Work Group meeting is scheduled for 1:30pm, Thursday, July 27^th (right after the regular lunch meeting) at the Belton Chamber. Putting a Banner at the Park – Karen will email Matt Bates for process and authorization.  A banner to place over Central Avenue would cost $750.00 – Will get with Judy Garrett about the banner.  The new colorful, fun poster is ready – just needs a few tweeks and add-ons – once completed, we’ll move forward with the billboards.  We’ll plan for a Press Conference in August – with the Ship set up – inviting radio, tv, newspapers, etc.

– District Cabinet Meetings –

August 11-12, Hillsboro

October 28, Salado

January 27, McGregor

April 26-27, Waco

Holding to a Later Date:

– Banner Stand and Specialty Products –this was tabled at the January Board Meeting – left tabled.

– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating – plans are progressing.  Tabled until after Picnic in the Park.

– Friends of Belton Lions

Meeting Closed at 1:53pm

BLC Meeting Order of Business – July 20, 2023

Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook
Members Present: Reese Davis, John Corsi, Brett Beamesderfer, Christa Strang, Mike Matthews, Jon Fontenot, Danny Dossman, Karen Stagner, Mac Hickerson, Gene Ellis, Wayne Carpenter, Billy Conway

Guest: Mack Latimer (invoice), Hillary Hickland (guest of Christa Strang), Kaitlyn Jones & Mom (scholarship recipient), Mylie Hammonds & Mom (scholarship recipient)
Song: by Lion Jon Fontenot
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Brett Beamesderfer
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Reese Davis
Prayer: Lion Gene Ellis
Joke: Lion Wayne Carpenter – Race at the Farmers Market / Lettuce a head / tomatoes catching up
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion Mike Matthews

Scholarship Presentations:  Dr. William B. Long Memorial Scholarship to Kaitlyn Jones; Halley Cox Memorial Scholarship to Mylie Hammonds – Congratulations!  Thank you Lion Todd Schiller for Team Leading the Scholarship process and applications.

Announcements:

Back to School with God Event, July 29^th, (next Saturday), Yettie Polk Park, 9am-1pm. Temple-Belton Lady Lions will do the eye screenings.  Belton Lions will help with “serving” the hot dogs, chips & drinks.  Wear your BLC t-shirt. Sign-us: Keith Cook, Mike Matthews, Jon Fontenot, Mack Latimer, Karen Stagner, Jennah Gliha, John Corsi, Keith Cook

MD 2 x3 District Cabinet Meeting, August 12^th, Hillsboro – President Keith Cook and Secretary Karen Stagner will be attending – We can promote the Lions on the Leon Event to all of the Clubs in our District.  Anyone else want to carpool, Saturday, August 12^th? 

Bell County Senior Expo – September 26^th – Kimberly Cables, Belton Journal is requesting volunteers for the 8am-1pm event.  Sign-up sheet passed – Jennah, Keith, Cree & Karen have signed up so far.  Our BLC logo has been added to the Senior Expo header online.  Sign-up to volunteer if you can – see Secretary.  Wear your BLC t-shirt.

Bacon, Blues & Brews Plate Spinning Contest, Saturday, September 30^th, Downtown Belton – make plans to help sell People’s Choice Tickets – sign up sheet will be passed closer to event. 

Lions on the Leon Wacky Boat Race, Oct 7th – the Ship is in dry dock.  Next planning meeting is Monday, July 24, 6pm, Danny’s place.

Lions on the Leon Picnic in the Park, October 7th – Next planning meeting and site visit will be Thursday, July 27^th, 1:30pm (following Lions Lunch).

Thank you Jennah Gliha and Christa Strang for taking the lunch pictures and making our facebook posts.

Program:  Reese Davis invited Jason Deckman, City of Temple, to give a presentation on the “Rails to Trails” project – Georgetown Railroad Trail using abandoned tracks to create a concrete trail from Temple to Belton.  Interesting project, details, artist’s sketches and maps.  Thank You!

Future Program Assignments:
July 27 – Brett Beamesderfer – New LEO Club – Carla Beamesderfer
August 3 – James Harrison – State of the Club
August 10 – Mike Matthews – tentatively Texas Lions Camp – and donation check
August 17 – David Shaw
August 24 – Karen Stagner –Representative Hugh D. Shine – Legislative Update

Keeping on the Front Burner:
Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
85^th 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 – now posted on facebook and on our website

BLC Meeting Recap – July 13th

Call to Order by Lion President Keith Cook
Members Present: Keith Cook, Mac Hickerson, Veronica Logan, Christa Strang, John Corsi, Jon Fontenot, Karen Stagner, Billy Conway, David Shaw, Mike Matthews, Wayne Carpenter, Dwayne Williams, Jennah Gliha, Gene Ellis
Guest: Mack Latimer (associate), Joseph Dyer & Matt Bates (speakers)
Song: by Lion Veronica Logan
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Billy Conway
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Jennah Gliha
Prayer: Lion Gene Ellis
Joke: Lion Ellis – why do longhorns wear a bell – their horns don’t work
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion Mike Matthews

Announcements:

Back to School with God Event, July 29^th, Yettie Polk Park, 9am-1pm. Temple-Belton Lady Lions will do the eye screenings.  Belton Lions will help with “serving” the hot dogs, chips & drinks.  Wear your BLC t-shirt. Sign-us: Keith Cook, Mike Matthews, Jon Fontenot, Mack Latimer, Karen Stagner, Jennah Gliha, John Corsi, Keith Cook

MD 2 x3 District Cabinet Meeting, August 12^th, Hillsboro – President Keith Cook and Secretary Karen Stagner will be attending – We can promote the Lions on the Leon Event to all of the Clubs in our District.  Anyone else want to carpool, Saturday, August 12^th? 

Bell County Senior Expo – September 26^th – Kimberly Cables, Belton Journal is requesting volunteers for the 8am-1pm event.  Sign-up sheet passed – Jennah, Keith, Cree & Karen have signed up so far.  Our BLC logo has been added to the Senior Expo header online.  Sign-up to volunteer if you can – see Secretary.  Wear your BLC t-shirt.

Bacon, Blues & Brews Plate Spinning Contest, Saturday, September 30^th, Downtown Belton – make plans to help sell People’s Choice Tickets – sign up sheet will be passed closer to event. 

Lions on the Leon Wacky Boat Race, Oct 7th – the Ship is in dry dock.

Lions on the Leon Picnic in the Park, October 7th – Christa Strang – Planning Meeting on July 12^th with Karen Judy, Joseph, Katherine, John Christa attending.  Certificate of Insurance has been delivered to City of Belton; Sound System will be provided by David Leigh – we will need a sound engineer.  Belton Parks and Rec will provide generator power and bleachers; Judy will arrange for the stage risers; Jon is working with local artists for entertainment; Christa is contacting inflatable games and Black Axe Co; Jennah is speaking with David Shaw regarding Car Show.  Christa will get with Home Depot for Kids Kits (need hammers and sturdy tables.  Kat with the Chamber and Belton EDC has volunteered to create our graphic designs; we are combining sponsorship forms and creating the greater levels; Vendor invitations will go out this week – $100 per booth.  Food Trucks (10:30am-5pm) invitations will go our this week $250 per truck;  Activities suggested: Face Painting, Corn Hole, Home Depot Kids Kits, That Art Place Trailer, Dunk Tank, Picture Taking (Photo Social).  Large overhead Banner across street and/or hung in Heritage Park – approximately $750.

Next planning meeting and site visit will be Thursday, July 27^th, 1:30pm (following Lions Lunch).

Thank you Jennah Gliha and Christa Strang for taking the lunch pictures and making our facebook posts each week.

Program:  Gene Ellis hosted (for Sam Listi) Matt Bates and Joseph Dyer who presented an update on the Heritage Park / Leon River improvements.  Our Club is honored to present our annual Heritage Park $5,000 partnership check to the City. Thank you – Great Presentation.

Future Program Assignments:
July 20 – Reese Davis – Jason Deckman from the City Temple will give a brief presentation update on the “Rails to Trails” project.  Scholarship presentations by Todd Schiller/Keith Cook; Board Meeting after lunch
July 27 – Brett Beamesderfer
August 3 – James Harrison – State of the Club
August 10 – Mike Matthews
August 17 – David Shaw
August 24 – Karen Stagner – tentatively Representative Hugh D. Shine – Legislative Update

Keeping on the Front Burner:
Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
85^th 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 – now posted on facebook and on our website

BLC Meeting Recap – June 22, 2023

Call to Order by Lion President-Elect Keith Cook – Great Job officiating the meeting, on behalf of Mike Matthews!  Thank You!

Members Present: Gene Ellis, Mac Hickerson, Christa Strang, John Corsi, Jon Fontenot, Mary Shockley, Karen Stagner, David Leigh, James Harrison, Dwayne Williams, Reese Davis, Keith Cook, Sam Listi
Guest: Chris Brown, Belton IT; Adam Russell, Texas Ranger (guest of Reese Davis)
Song: by Lion Danny Dossman
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Dwayne Williams
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Reese Davis
Prayer: Lion David Leigh
Joke: Lion James Harrison, Toothbrush – Teethbrush … had to be there …
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson … never ending spinnnnnnnnn
Exercise: Lion James Harrison

Announcements:

Board Meeting Update –
–  Jon Fontenot is getting the Club set up to receive credit card payments for the Foundation public fundraiser account – fundraisers only.
–  Keith Cook and Brett Beamesderfer are looking into starting a LEO Club with the Principal at Belton Middle School.
–  Ann Carpenter reached out with an invitation to participate in the Back to School with God event, July 29^th at Yettie Polk Park.  James Harrison has acquired the Temple-Belton Lady Lions for the eye screening.  We need to check availability for the PD Command Vehicle again this year.  Belton Lions will, again, help with serving the hot dogs.
– The Board approved an expense Budget of up to $10K for the Picnic in the Park / Wacky Open and Cardboard Boat Race – based on projected income/expense submitted by James Harrison. Thanks and Great Job in planning!
– According to LCI Club metrics, our Club has donated $9,850 of our $12,095 funds raised during the 2022-2023 year.

Haley Cox and Dr. William B. Long Memorial Scholarships – Todd Schiller … he is tentatively planning on Thursday July 20^th for the presentations.

Lions on the Leon Wacky Boat Race, October 7th – Danny Dossman – Captain Dossman will not be back from the IBR until early morning Monday, July 3^rd.  We need to load the boat on Chris & Jennah’s trailer on Monday – volunteers needed to help.  Volunteers to walk in the Parade (so far) are: Mary, Jennah, Keith, Danny, Karen, Emily, Reese – please volunteer to participate – in Pirate Costume!

Picnic in the Park, October 7th – James Harrison – next planning meeting is tentatively scheduled for July 12^th, 1pm, Chamber.   James needs committee volunteers; and he needs someone to create the event poster for Picnic in the Park / Wacky Open and Cardboard Boat Race.  Please volunteer to help. James is going to be out some between now and the end of September – so, please make every effort to attend the meeting on the 12^th and help with the planning. 

Dues Invoices will be distributed at the meeting on June 29^th.

Program:  Gene Ellis presented a delightfully entertaining Program on the 149^th Kentucky Derby – horses, specialty drinks, derby food, races, Run for the Roses, Churchill Downs, and so much more.  Plan NOW if you want to go to the 150^th Kentucky Derby in 2024!

Future Program Assignments:
June 29 – John Corsi – Randy Pittenger – Belton 4^th of July Celebration Activities
July 6 – Billy Conway
July 13 – Sam Listi – Matt Bates update on Heritage Park and check presentation
July 20 – Reese Davis – the Program will be Scholarship presentations
July 27 – Brett Beamesderfer
August 3 – Karen Stagner
August 10 – Mike Matthews
August 17 – David Shaw
August 24 – James Harrison

Keeping on the Front Burner:
Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
85^th 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.
Judy Garrett, Belton CVB, extended an offer for the Belton Lions to, again, host our Plate Spinning Contest; and sell the Tasting Tickets, at Belton Bacon, Blues and Brews on Saturday, September 30^th (which is the week before the Picnic and Boat Race). After discussion, it was agreed that the Club would participate and hold the fundraiser.
Bell County Senior Expo – September 26^th – Kimberly Cables, Belton Journal is requesting volunteers for the 8am-1pm event.  Sign-up sheet passed – Jennah, Cree & Karen have signed up so far.  Our BLC logo has been added to the Senior Expo header online.
2024 Fundraiser Cruise – Carnival Jubilee – January 13-20, 2024 – now posted on facebook and on our website

BLC Meeting Recap – June 29, 2023 – last meeting of the 2022-2023 LCI Year!

Call to Order by Lion Mike Matthews
Members Present: Mike Matthews, Mac Hickerson, Wayne Carpenter, Christa Strang, Jon Fontenot, mary Shockley, Karen Stagner, Billy Conway, Keith Cook, Cree Childs, Dwayne Williams, Reese Davis, Jennah Gliha, David Tuma, Rob Potts
Guest: Mack Latimer, Associate Member; Randy Pittenger, Speaker
Song: by Lion Jennah Gliha
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Jon Fontenot
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Keith Cook
Prayer: Lion Wayne Carpenter
Joke: Lion Jennah Gliha – Chris dreamed about a muffler and woke up exhausted
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion Mike Matthews

Announcements:

Flag Program – the final 12 unpaid participants were mailed invoices on Wednesday, June 21^st; requesting that payment be received by Wednesday, June 28^th – payments have been received by all but 5 participants.
Haley Cox and Dr. William B. Long Memorial Scholarships – Todd Schiller … he is tentatively planning on Thursday July 20^th for the presentations.

Back to School with God Event, July 29^th, Yettie Polk Park, 9am-1pm. Temple-Belton Lady Lions will do the eye screenings.  Belton Lions will help with “serving” the hot dogs, chips & drinks.  Wear your BLC t-shirt.

Bell County Senior Expo – September 26^th – Kimberly Cables, Belton Journal is requesting volunteers for the 8am-1pm event.  Sign-up sheet passed – Jennah, Cree & Karen have signed up so far.  Our BLC logo has been added to the Senior Expo header online.  Sign-up to volunteer if you can – see Secretary.  Wear your BLC t-shirt.

Bacon, Blues & Brews Plate Spinning Contest, Saturday, September 30^th, Downtown Belton – make plans to help sell People’s Choice Tickets – the Club is in search of our BLC table covers, last used at the same event last year.

Lions on the Leon Wacky Boat Race, October 7th – Danny Dossman – Captain Dossman will be back sometime Sunday, July 2^nd.  We need to load the boat on Chris & Jennah’s trailer on Monday – PLUS, we need to have a Parade Volunteers meeting on Monday, July 3^rd.  Volunteers to walk in the 4^th of July Parade (so far) are: Mary, Jennah, Keith, Danny, Karen, Emily, Reese – please volunteer to participate – in Pirate Costume!

Picnic in the Park, October 7th – planning meeting is scheduled for July 12^th, 1pm, Belton Chamber – please attend and share your ideas as we brainstorm and continue planning the event!

State Eye Exam Certification – Karen from Linda Vaughn – next class if July 8^th in Buffalo.

Program:  John Corsi and the Club invited Belton Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Randy Pittenger who spoke about the upcoming 4^th of July Celebration activities; Texas Rangers celebrating 200 years; Hot Dog eating contest – Jon Fontenot is the celebrity contestant; Stick Horse Stampede; Military Appreciation; Red, White and Blue Car Show; Festival on Nolan Creek; Carnival at Liberty Park, PRCA Rodeo and Fort Cavazos Tanks.  Great Presentation! Thank You!

Future Program Assignments:
June 29 – John Corsi – Randy Pittenger – Belton 4^th of July Celebration Activities
July 6 – Billy Conway – John Moseley, Commander of Central Texas Organized Crime Task Force
July 13 – Sam Listi – Matt Bates update on Heritage Park and check presentation
July 20 – Reese Davis – Scholarship presentations; and a Program
July 27 – Brett Beamesderfer
August 3 – James Harrison – State of the Club
August 10 – Mike Matthews
August 17 – David Shaw
August 24 – Karen Stagner – tentatively Representative Hugh D. Shine – Legislative Update

Keeping on the Front Burner:
Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
85^th 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 – now posted on facebook and on our website

BLC Meeting Recap – June 15, 2023
Call to Order by Lion Mike Matthews

Members Present: Mike Matthews, Keith Cook, Mac Hickerson, Christa Strang, Cree Childs, John Corsi, Fon Fontenot, Brett Beamesderfer, Sam Listi, Karen Stagner, James Harrison, Jennah Gliha, Gene Ellis
Guest: Mack Lattimer (Affiliate Member); Chris Gregg (guest of Jennah Gliha); Jennifer Bailey (speaker)
Song: by Lion Jennah Gliha
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Jon Fontenot
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Keith Cook
Prayer: Lion Gene Ellis
Joke: Lion James Harrison – cross a centipede with a parrot = walkie talkie
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion James Harrison

Installation of 2023-2024 Club Officers: officiated by Chief Gene Ellis – Thank You! Congratulations!

Announcements:

Lion of the Year was presented to Lion Jon Fontenot!

Lion President Elect Keith Cook presented Lion President Mike Matthews with a presidential commemorative plaque.

Haley Cox and Dr. William B. Long Memorial Scholarships – Todd Schiller … he is tentatively planning on Thursday July 20^th for the presentations.

Lions on the Leon Wacky Boat Race, October 7th – Danny Dossman – the Black Pearl flagship is about 90% ready for the Belton 4^th of July Parade.  Volunteers to walk in the Parade (so far) are: Mary, Jennah & Chris, Keith, Danny, Karen, Emily,  – please volunteer to participate – in Pirate Costume!

Picnic in the Park, October 7th – James Harrison – next planning meeting is tentatively scheduled for July 10^th.

Program:  Keith Cook – Program Speaker: Jennifer Bailey, Executive Director of Communication for B.I.S.D. – Jennifer Bailey showcased the recent State of the District Celebration Student Showcases – Penguin Project, Incubator Project, Academics, Career & Technical Education, Athletics and Fine Arts; focusing on the Journey of a Graduate – Perseverance, Adaptability, Collaboration, Communication, Critical Thinking and Empathy.  Thank You!

Future Program Assignments:
June 22 – Gene Ellis – soon to be announced
June 29 – Sam Listi – Matt Bates update on Heritage Park and check presentation
July 6 – Billy Conway
July 13 – John Corsi
July 20 – Reese Davis – tentatively planning Scholarship presentations
July 27 – Brett Beamesderfer
August 3 – Karen Stagner
August 10 – Mike Matthews
August 17 – David Shaw
August 24 – James Harrison

Keeping on the Front Burner:
Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
85^th 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.
Judy Garrett, Belton CVB, extended an offer for the Belton Lions to, again, host our Plate Spinning Contest; and sell the Tasting Tickets, at Belton Bacon, Blues and Brews on Saturday, September 30^th (which is the week before the Picnic and Boat Race). After discussion, it was agreed that the Club would participate and hold the fundraiser.
Bell County Senior Expo – September 26^th – Kimberly Cables, Belton Journal is requesting volunteers for the 8am-1pm event.  Sign-up sheet passed – Jennah, Cree & Karen have signed up so far.  Our BLC logo has been added to the Senior Expo header online.
2024 Fundraiser Cruise – Carnival Jubilee – January 13-20, 2024 – now posted on facebook and on our website

Call to Order by Lion President Mike Matthews, at 12:55pm

Members Present: John Corsi, Jennah Gliha, Jon Fontenot, Karen Stagner, Keith Cook, James Harrison, Mac Hickerson, Mike Matthews
Absent: Danny Dossman, Veronica Logan

Treasurer Report –
            General Account: $3,582.44 (6/8/2023)
Foundation Account: $38,293.94 (5/25/2023)

– Jon Fontenot will check into getting a current statement from Edward Jones.  The Board will be updated on the savings account twice a year; instead of monthly.

– The Board discussed looking into investing in CD’s – Jon will look into it and report at the next Board Mtg.

New Business:

– New Officer Duties – handout

– Keith Cook presented the Board with a Letter/Application he received for the Club to apply for an LCI Club Excellence Award.  After discussion, the Board agreed to submit an application. Secretary will fill it out and present to the President for signature and submission.

– Keith Cook passed on a question from Brett Beamesderfer regarding a desire to start a LEO Club.  He wants to start the LEO Club at Belton Middle School and the School Principal would like it as well.  Keith Cook and Brett Beamesderfer will coordinate the start-up – Junior Level Leadership Program – $100 per year.  Keith Cook will look further into it and report back – motion to move forward by James Harrison; 2^nd by Jon Fontenot; passed. LEO – Leadership, Experience, Opportunity 

– Karen Stagner received a text from Ann Carpenter asking the Club to participate in this year’s Back to School with God event, July 29th at Yettie Polk Park.  James Harrison will check with Temple-Belton Lady Lions about providing the eye screening.  If Lady Lions are available, Karen Stagner will get with Chief Ellis for the availability of the Police Department Command Unit again.  We help with the hot dogs; and we could put up our canopy tent.

– Karen will send out an email to Club members to locate the table covers and get them back together with the canopy and weights.  They were last used at Belton Bacon, Blues and Brews.

Old Business:

– Flag Program: $3,895 or $4,350 has been paid for 2023 – 143 Flags out in the Program; adding another new order this week.  Christa Strang and Jennah Gliha will take forms to their respective neighborhoods to get new program participants. 

– Credit Cards – at the May BOD, Jon Fontenot reporting that the bank charges roughly $40/month; plus rental on the machine. The Board discussed that we should get set up to accept credit cards into the Foundation account for fundraisers; and that it would not be cost effective for the Club to also set this up for member dues, etc. in the General account.  Motion by James Harrison; 2^nd by Karen Stagner to get set up with the Foundation Account; passed.

– Picnic in the Park / Wacky Boat Race Expenses – James Harrison provided with a suggested/preliminary rough draft budget for the Picnic in the Park / Wacky Boat Race event. (attached).  During the discussion, Jennah volunteered to get with David Shaw about the possibility of having a Corvette Club come out.  Not included the presented budget version would be the Wacky Boat Entries People’s Choice tickets.  James asked Keith about possibly getting the BISD printing shop to help us with posters – we would pay for the materials and supplies – Keith Cook will look into it.  James Harrison will get with Jennah Gliha and John Corsi about their connections to get Cover Bands.  James requested additional help on his Committee; and needs someone to create the Event poster – please contact James if you can help.

City of Nolanville has contacted Sam Listi that they are planning to enter a boat … and a challenge.

James Harrison explained that the presented budget is fluid – if we don’t get as much for sponsors, we will cut down on the expenses.

Jon Fontenot motioned to approve expenses up to $10K; then if expenses meet that mark, James will come back to the Board for a Budget Adjustment; 2^nd by Karen Stagner; approved.

– 4^th of July Belton Parade – Parade Entry application turned in and debit card payment made 6/12/23.

Holding to a Later Date:
– Banner Stand and Specialty Products – John Corsi and Jon Fontenot – this was tabled at the January Board Meeting – left tabled.
– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating – plans are progressing.  Tabled until after Picnic in the Park.
– Friends of Belton Lions

Meeting Closed at 1:35pm

Club Metrics Reported to LCI – does not include 2023 Stampede
People Served: 873
Service Activities Completed: 13
Volunteer Hours: 287 (includes hrs for Service Activities only)
Funds Donated: $9,850
Funds Raised: $12,095 (includes member pledge payments for Marek-Smith wall)