Belton Lions Club

BLC Meeting Recap – Thursday, February 13, 2025
Call to Order by Lion President-Elect Jon Fontenot

“If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”

Members Present: Mac Hickerson, David Shaw, Danny Dossman, Jon Fontenot, Karen Stagner, Billy Conway, Wayne Carpenter, Rob Potts, James Harrison, Mike Matthews, Keith Cook, Sam Listi, Larry Berg

Guest: Luke Potts (guest of Rob Potts)
Song: by Lion Larry Berg
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Danny Dossman
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Keith Cook
Prayer: Lion Rob Potts
Joke: Lion James Harrison – Why did the tomato blush?  He saw the salad dressing.  haha
Plate Spin: World Renowned Plate Spinner Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion Mike Matthews

SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Lion Mac Hickerson – Lifetime Membership in Belton Lions Club – Mac joined the Club in 1978 and has been a member of Belton Lions for 47 years. As Club Lion Tamer and Board Member-at-Large, his commitment to the Club and to the Belton Community has been a true asset with a positive impact on everyone around him.  He is always willing to lend a helping hand, and his selflessness and compassion are truly admirable.  Mac always shared his kindness, generosity and dedication to our Community, and to our Club.  Mac has attended, and/or participated in, almost all of the meetings, fundraisers and events of our Club.  He was also active in the Annual Lions Club Show, as an actor, as well as, helping with the production of the show.  As Golf Coach for University of Mary Hardin Baylor (UMHB), Mac inspired many young Christian athletes to become future leaders.  In August of 2023, UMHB named the new golf complex after Charles “Mac” Hickerson. Congratulations Mac … and well deserved … we proudly present you with this Life Membership in the Belton Lions Club and Lions International. 

BOARD Meeting Recap: The Board briefly met after last week’s lunch to discuss renting a larger storage unit. We have already outgrown our current 5×10 at Belton Mini Storage.  They have agreed to provide the Club a 10×10 unit at a drastically discounted rate – $79 month if we pay in advance. It was motioned by Todd Schiller; and 2nd and approved to accept the offer and move to the larger unit.

REMINDERS and ANNOUNCEMENTS:

– BBQ Fundraiser to help with medical expenses for JT Grimm is scheduled for March 8^th, 5pm, at Creekside Cigar. JT is still in ICU.

– Constitution and By-Laws Committee – Larry Berg, James Harrison, Jennah Gliha, Wayne Carpenter & Karen Stagner met after lunch on February 6^th.  By-Laws and Officers, as well as contact information will be updated to present.

– Several Club Members (Jennah, Chris, Keith, Karen & Susie Marek) will be visiting and touring Texas Lions Camp with Past International Director Sam Lindsey on Friday, June 13^th – plus, attending Camp Graduation that evening. We have special rates for overnight stay at the Y.O. Ranch in Kerrville. PID Sam would like to get a headcount for the room block at the hotel.  If you are interested in going, contact Jennah or Karen to get on the list.

– Lions on the Leon – Planning Committee Meeting: Thursday, February 20, 6pm, Danny’s home – plus STAMPEDE update.

Program: Thank you, Lion Danny Dossman for bringing us a “roaring” video presentation on Belton Lions Club History, with narrated memories of Lion Dr. “Hypo” Long. Included were clips from the Variety Show, 4th of July Parades, Christmas Celebrations and so many more Belton Lion Club members and memories. Thank you for sharing this history!
Future Programs:
February 20 – Jon Fontenot – Aric Henkelman, Fire Marshall; Board Meeting after
February 27 – Jennah Gliha – tentative – Representatives from BISD Sped Dept. – April 17^th, Region 12, Area Wide Special Olympics Track & Field Meet at Tiger Stadium

March 6 – (was Christa Strang) James Harrison – Judge Ted Duffield.

March 13 – David Leigh

March 20 – Open (was Veronica Logan) – Board Meeting After

March 27 – Mike Matthews

April 3 – Rob Potts

April 10 – James Harrison – Note: BLC 86^th Anniversary is April 15^th

April 17 – Cri Childs – Board Meeting after; plus … Easter Basket Delivery

April 24 – Brett Beamesderfer

Thank Guests for Coming!  Remember, where there is a need, there is a Lion! Have a HAPPY VALENTINE’s DAY!

Keeping on the Front Burner:

– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
– LEO Club Update – Brett – future interested LEOs can help with events, as they further their plans.

BLC Meeting Recap – Thursday, February 6, 2025
Call to Order by Lion President Jennah Gliha
“If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”

Members Present: Jennah Gliha, John Corsi, Mike Matthews, Jon Fontenot, Karen Stagner, Mary Shockley, Larry Berg, David Tuma, Billy Conway, Wayne Carpenter, Sam Listi, David Leigh, Todd Schiller

Guest: Chris Gregg (guest of Jennah Gliha), Megan Lane (Instructor/Speaker)
Song: by Lion John Corsi
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Mike Matthews
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Jon Fontenot
Prayer: Lion Wayne Carpenter
Joke: Lion David Leigh – Beach said to Tide … “Long Time No Sea”
Plate Spin: Chris Gregg
Exercise: Lion James Harrison – working off CAKE

REMINDERS and ANNOUNCEMENTS:

– Lion Mac is doing better; his family said that he should be able to join us NEXT week.  So, we will have CAKE each week in February in Celebration of Mac’s Life Membership.

– Update on Lion JT Grimm – BBQ Fundraiser scheduled for March 8^th, 5pm, at Creekside Cigar.

– Constitution and By-Laws Meeting after Lunch today – Larry Berg, James Harrison, Jennah Gliha, Wayne Carpenter & Karen Stagner

– BOARD members are asked to remain today after lunch for one brief order of business needing approval.

– Several Club Members (Jennah, Chris, Keith, Karen & Susie Marek) will be visiting and touring Texas Lions Camp with Past International Director Sam Lindsey on Friday, June 13^th – plus, attending Camp Graduation that evening. We have special rates for overnight stay at the Y.O. Ranch in Kerrville. PID Sam would like to get a headcount for the room block at the hotel.  If you are interested in going, contact Jennah or Karen to get on the list.

– STAMPEDE Bike Ride Update:

            Many of the supplies have been located and will be moved to our Storage Unit.
Current Sponsors: ABC Home & Commercial Services, Don Ringler Chevrolet, Blackland Implement, Cen-Tex  Automotive, Corsi State Farm Insurance and Sparta Crane – we urge each member to get one new sponsor.
Swag Bag Contributions: Cochran, Blair & Potts – koozies; Belton Area Chamber of Commerce – chapstick
Bib Raffle Contributions: Binoculars, Driveway Solar Lights, Sports Drinks w/koozies
Route Maps are being updated
Committee Meeting: ??

– Lions on the Leon – Planning Committee Meeting: ??

Program: Lion John Corsi – SURPRISE Program DISCO Dancing.  Thank you Megan – what a great FUN day!  Belton Lions can DANCE!

Future Programs:

February 13 – Danny Dossman – Lion “Hypo” Long (ret.)
February 20 – Jon Fontenot – Aric Henkelman, Fire Marshall; Board Meeting after
February 27 – Jennah Gliha – tentative – Representatives from BISD Sped Dept. – April 17^th, Region 12, Area Wide Special Olympics Track & Field Meet at Tiger Stadium
March 6 – open (was Christa Strang)
March 13 – David Leigh
March 20 – Open (was Veronica Logan) – Board Meeting After
March 27 – Mike Matthews
April 3 – Rob Potts
April 10 – James Harrison – Judge Ted Duffield.  Note: BLC 86^th Anniversary is April 15^th
April 17 – Cri Childs – Board Meeting after; plus … Easter Basket Delivery
April 24 – Brett Beamesderfer

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

Keeping on the Front Burner:

– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
– LEO Club Update – Brett – future interested LEOs can help with events, as they further their plans.
– Tara Cotton needing special hearing device for her daughter. We are currently waiting to hear back from the Mom about her school, church and family fundraising efforts to supplement any BLC donation..

BLC Meeting Recap – Thursday, January 30, 2025
Call to Order by Lion President Jennah Gliha
“If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”

Members Present: Jon Fontenot, Danny Dossman, Wayne Carpenter, Sam Listi, David Shaw, Jennah Gliha, David Tuma, Mary Shockley, Rob Potts, James Harrison, Keith Cook, Clint Bailey, Dwayne Williams, John Corsi, Karen Stagner

Guest: Chris Gregg (guest of Jennah Gliha), Valerie Williams (club guest), PDG Lawrence & Sylvia Sanchez (club guests),

Jay Walker, Julia Broderick & Nathaniel Herrera (guest speakers)
Song: by Lion Keith Cook
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Rob Potts
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion John Corsi
Prayer: Lion Wayne Carpenter
Joke: Lion Danny Dossman – longest joke EVER … you had to be there
Plate Spin: standing in for our World-Renowned Plate Spinner today was Chris Gregg – nice spin!
Exercise: Lion James Harrison

REMINDERS and ANNOUNCEMENTS:

– Full Schedule today – we will have project and fundraiser updates next week.

– NOTE:  Several Club Members (Jennah, Chris, Keith, Karen & Susie Marek) will be visiting and touring Texas Lions Camp with Past International Director Sam Lindsey on Friday, June 13^th – plus, attending Camp Graduation that evening. We have special rates for overnight stay at the Y.O. Ranch in Kerrville. PID Sam would like to get a headcount for the room block at the hotel.  If you are interested in going, contact Jennah or Karen to get on the list.

– Presentations: 

            Lion Mac Hickerson – Lifetime Membership in Belton Lions Club – Lion Mac has a cold; we have postponed his presentation until next meeting – February 6^th.

            Lion Dwayne Williams – PDG (Past District Governor) Lawrence Sanchez, Board Member of the Texas Lions Museum presented Lion Dwayne with the Grindstaff Life Membership in the Texas Lions Museum. Thank you Lion Dwayne for your Lionism and generosity!

Program: Past President Lion Keith Cook invited Representatives from the Lake Belton High School Entrepreneurial Department to tell us about their SHARK TANK program. Exciting Program – preparing students for the business world.

Incubator / Accelerator / Accounting – creating their own product or service.  SHARK TANK judging is scheduled for April 25^th, 6pm.  They are seeking Judges for the event.  Thank you Nathaniel Herrera & Julie Broderick; and their teacher Jay Walker. (see attached .pdf)

Future Programs:

February 6 – John Corsi – Note: Constitution and By-Laws Committee Meeting after lunch (Committee Members: Larry Berg, Jennah Gliha, Wayne Carpenter, James Harrison & Karen Stagner)
February 13 – Danny Dossman
February 20 – Jon Fontenot – Board Meeting after
February 27 – Jennah Gliha
March 6 – open (was Christa Strang)
March 13 – David Leigh
March 20 – Open (was Veronica Logan) – Board Meeting After
March 27 – Mike Matthews
April 3 – Rob Potts
April 10 – James Harrison – Note: BLC 86^th Anniversary is April 15^th
April 17 – Cri Childs – Board Meeting after; plus … Easter Basket Delivery
April 24 – Brett Beamesderfer

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

Keeping on the Front Burner:

– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
– LEO Club Update – Brett – future interested LEOs can help with events, as they further their plans.
– Tara Cotton needing special hearing device for her daughter. We are currently waiting to hear back from the Mom about her school, church and family fundraising efforts to supplement any BLC donation.

incubatoredu_20250130_0001

BLC Meeting Order of Business – Thursday, January 23, 2025
Call to Order by Lion President Jennah Gliha
“If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”

Members Present: Mike Matthews, Jon Fontenot, Danny Dossman, Karen Stagner, Billy Conway, James Harrison, Rob Potts, David Shaw, Jennah Gliha, Sam Listi, Keith Cook, Wayne Carpenter, Mac Hickerson, David Leigh

Guest: Buddy Hickerson (guest), Jesse Ramos (speaker)
Song: by Lion Mike Matthews
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Keith Cook
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Rob Potts
Prayer: Lion Sam Listi
Joke: Lion David Leigh – It’s so Cold … how Cold is it ???   and on … and on … and on …
Plate Spin: World Renowned Plate Spinner Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion James Harrison

Lion Birthdays: Birthdays: Larry Berg (1/22), JT Grimm (1/9), Clint Bailey (1/22) 

REMINDERS and ANNOUNCEMENTS:

– To Note: Lion JT Grimm is in the hospital; please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

– Board Meeting Recap:

BLC Constitution and By-Laws Update: Current Version has been emailed to Committee: Larry Berg, James Harrison, Jennah Gliha, Wayne Carpenter & Karen Stagner – 1^st Review Meeting is scheduled for after lunch on Thursday, February 6^th.

America’s Best Invoices for Eyeglasses – the Club has paid for two (2) exams and eyeglasses so far in 2025.

Lions on the Leon 5K Run/Walk – Since we didn’t make the finals with Cen-Tex Race Series and the $1,000 cost for race timing; it was agreed that we should keep the 5K as a Fun Run/Walk.

Storage Shelving for the BLC storage unit at Belton Storage – it was approved to purchase a shelving unit.

Membership Dues – it was discussed and approved that any member past due by 18 months would be notified to be dropped for non-payment.

– MD2X3 Mid Winter District Recap

Club Excellence – presentation to PP Keith Cook – label pin and Club Patch

Leader Dogs for the Blind (Michigan) Slide Show and Presentation

Dinner in the Dark, created by Waco Women’s Lions in 2014 in Waco Texas – now nationwide (handout)

Peace Poster Contest – Lion BC Seely – Students ages 11, 12 or 13 as of November 15 are eligible to participate in the International Peace Poster Contest. Kit can be ordered January 15^th – October 1^st.

Texas Lions Camp – PID Sam Lindsey invite to tour Camp & Museum, June 13&14, lodging at YO Ranch $99

– Stampede Bike Ride 2025 Date – Update & Handouts

Email sent to 176 past riders / 3 signed up as of today

Posted on WheelBrothers

Posted on BLC facebook and website – please like and share facebook post

Soliciting past sponsors & raffle contributors for 2025 ride. Current Sponsors: ABC Home & Commercial, Don Ringler Chevrolet, Blackland Implement, and Cen-Tex Automotive

Members are asked, if able, to try to contribute one item for the Bib Raffle.

Program: Billy Conway has invited Captain Jeffe Ramos, Commander of the CID Division, Bell County Sheriff’s Office, with 40+ years of service. Thank you, Billy Conway, for inviting Captain Jesse, we know we are in good hands! 

Future Programs:

January 30 – Keith Cook, LBHS Entrepreneurial Department – Shark Tank – plus two (2) special presentations
February 6 – John Corsi – Note: Constitution and By-Laws Committee Meeting after lunch
February 13 – Danny Dossman
February 20 – Jon Fontenot – Board Meeting after
February 27 – Jennah Gliha

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

Keeping on the Front Burner:

– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
– LEO Club Update – Brett – future interested LEOs can help with events, as they further their plans.
– Tara Cotton needing special hearing device for her daughter. We are currently waiting to hear back from the Mom about her school, church and family fundraising efforts to supplement any BLC donation..

BLC December BOARD Meeting Recap – January 16, 2025

Call to Order by Lion President Jennah Gliha

Members Present: James Harrison, Mike Matthews, Todd Schiller, Jon Fontenot, Mac Hickerson, Jennah Gliha
Absent: Danny Dossman, Keith Cook, David Shaw, John Corsi
Guest: Buddy Hickerson, Chris Gregg

Membership Report – Karen Stagner –
Total Active Members – 38

The Board discussed unpaid member dues.  Jon Fontenot motioned to create a rule that any member unpaid for 18 months would be dropped from Club membership until their past due payments were paid; 2^nd by Mike Matthews.  After discussion, Board voted unanimously to accept and approve the rule.

Treasurer Report –

General Account – $9,844.85
Foundation Account – $33,261.43
Edward Jones – $23,754.96
Raymond James – $11,699.00

Old Business:

– BLC Constitution and By-Laws – suggesting a Board Member take the Lead on this to work with the Committee. From the meeting, July 25^th, the Committee consists of: Larry Berg, James Harrison, Jennah Gliha, Wayne Carpenter & Karen Stagner. Karen will email the files to committee members and suggest 2 dates for a meeting after one of our Thursday lunches.

– America’s Best invoices for eyeglasses – Five (5) invoices for $79.95 each to America’s Best have been paid during 2024.  We received a new one for payment mid-December; then received 2 additional invoices. America’s Best # 5037 has been advised that the one received last week would fall within our 2024 budget. The 2 additional will be paid from the 2025 budget.

– Lions on the Leon AAR Meeting –update from Belton City Council about a beer & wine permit in Heritage Park?  Danny and Patti to meet with City Council. Wine and Beer permit update postponed until next meeting.  After discussion of the $1,000+ cost for timing; and considering that the Run did not make the Cen-Tex Race Series because they already have 2 events in October, the Board agreed to continue the 5K Run/Walk as a fun run. Parks and Rec would like to talk to us about having a trail run.  

New Business:

Storage Shelving for the Belton Storage Unit – Karen Stagner requested approval to purchase a shelving unit for the Storage Building.

Todd Schiller motion to approve; 2^nd by Mike Matthews.  After discussion about a $75-$80 shelving unit; the request was voted and approved. 

Holding to a Later Date:

– Membership Milestone Awards – Will we be presenting these at Christmas?  The Board agreed that Milestones will be in five (5) year increments; starting at 10 year membership. – John Corsi and Jennah Gliha.  Secretary has provided a Report of each member’s length of membership. – No discussion at this meeting

– Update on Cadence Bank – CD and other – on hold
– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
– LEO – Leadership, Experience, and Opportunity

– Tara Cotton (Belton) email to Lions International – daughter needs behind the ear hearing aids for bone conduction – insurance won’t cover the cost – pending family fundraising efforts to supplement any donations – to be updated in 2025.

– Lions on the Leon AAR Meeting – is there an update from Belton City Council about a beer & wine permit in Heritage Park?  The 5K run did not make the Cen-Tex Race Series.

Motion to close: 1:25pm

Submitted by Belton Lions Club Secretary Karen Stagner

BLC Meeting Recap – Thursday, January 16, 2025
Call to Order by Lion President
“If it’s Thursday … it’s LIONS CLUB!”

Members Present: Jennah Gliha, Mike Matthews, Jon Fontenot, Karen Stagner, Billy Conway, Todd Schiller, Wayne Carpenter, Mac Hickerson, Sam Listi, Keith Cook, Larry Berg,

Guest: Chris Gregg (no meal); Buddy Hickerson (Club Guest); James Grant (speaker)
Song: by Lion (forgot to write it down)
Pledge to US Flag: Lion (forgot to write it down)
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Keith Cook
Prayer: Lion Sam Listi
Joke: Buddy Hickerson – something about a bar and a tuba
Plate Spin: World Renowned Plate Spinner Lion Mac Hickerson
Exercise: Lion Mike Matthews

Lion Birthdays: January – date not known/listed with LCI as January 1st : Blair Williams; Michael Reyes, Griffin Lord, Matt Gunter, & Lou Griffin.  Actual Birthdays: Larry Berg (1/22), JT Grimm (1/9), Clint Bailey (1/22) 

REMINDERS and ANNOUNCEMENTS:

– Board Meeting After Lunch

– MD2X3 Mid Winter District, Saturday, January 18, Gober Party House, Temple, Hosted by Temple Founders Lions. So far, Jennah, Chris and Karen are going.

– BLC 2^nd Quarter Dues billing – please pay promptly

– Flag Program Billing – done …Thank you Danny Dossman for replacing so many flags over the weekend.

– Stampede Bike Ride 2025 Date – Update & Handouts

            Email sent to 176 past riders

            Posted on WheelBrothers – Stampede on the Chisholm Trail – All up to date 2025 Texas bicycle rides in one location

            Posted on BLC facebook and website

            Need to start soliciting 2024 sponsors & raffle contributors for 2025 ride.

            Members were asked, if able, to try to contribute one item for the Bib Raffle.

– Members took up a collection for Tabatha’s birthday; presented it to her; and sang Happy Birthday.

– Wayne Carpenter advised members of an upcoming Library Fundraiser, February 22, at Christ the King Catholic Church – featuring writer Lisa Wingate. (information attached).

Future Programs:

January 23 – Billy Conway – Chief Deputy Chuck Cox, Bell County Sheriff’s Department
January 30 – Keith Cook, LBHS Entrepreneurial Department – Shark Tank
February 6 – John Corsi
February 13 – Danny Dossman
February 20 – Jon Fontenot – Board Meeting after
February 27 – Jennah Gliha

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

Keeping on the Front Burner:
– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
– LEO Club – future interested LEOs can help with events, as they further their plans.
– Tara Cotton needing special hearing device for her daughter. We are currently waiting to hear back from the Mom about her school, church and family fundraising efforts to supplement any BLC donation.

BLC December BOARD Meeting Business – December 12, 2024

Call to Order by Lion President Jennah Gliha
Members Present: David Shaw, John Corsi, Mike Matthews, Jennah Gliha, Karen Stagner, James Harrison, Danny Dossman
Absent: Keith Cook, Todd Schiller, Jon Fontenot

Membership Report – Karen Stagner – Dues payment handout
Total Active Members – 38

Treasurer Report – Lion Treasurer Jon Fontenot is at a conference
   General Account – $ 9K plus
Foundation Account – $ 40K plus
Edward Jones – August $23,624.47; September $23,699.13;
Raymond James – August $11,480.16; September $11,561.16; October 11,608.43

Old Business:

– Tara Cotton (Belton) email to Lions International – daughter needs behind the ear hearing aids for bone conduction – insurance won’t cover the cost – pending family fundraising efforts to supplement any donations – to be updated in 2025. 

– BLC Constitution and By-Laws – suggesting a Board Member take the Lead on this to work with the Committee. From the meeting, July 25^th, the Committee consists of: Brett Beamesderfer, Larry Berg, James Harrison, Jennah Gliha, Wayne Carpenter & Karen Stagner. Now that we have a copy from the Secretary of State, the Committee needs to begin an update. Club Secretary has sent out what we have – to the committee members.  Committee needs to meet right after the first of the year to get this moving forward.

New Business:

– America’s Best invoices for eyeglasses – Five (5) invoices for $79.95 each to America’s Best have been paid.  We received a new one for payment approval last week; then received 2 additional invoices this week. America’s Best # 5037 has been advised that the one received last week would fall within our budget. However, if the Board does not make an exception and approve the other 2, they wouldn’t be paid until 2025. After Discussion, the Board approved paying all three (3) invoices. PLUS, BISD has identified a student needing glasses from the special needs community – John Corsi has been coordinating and advised the Board that the family has been working with this Specialty Optometrist for a while and asked the Board if we could approve the $79.00 to be paid directly to that Doctor. Motioned by Mike Matthews; 2^nd by John Corsi; passed.  After discussion on increasing the annual eyeglass budget, it was agreed that the Club will NOT increase the budget; but will discuss for approval each submission case-by-case after reaching the 2025 budget ceiling.

– Lions on the Leon AAR Meeting – is there an update from Belton City Council about a beer & wine permit in Heritage Park?  The 5K run did not make the Cen-Tex Race Series.  No update at this time. 

Holding to a Later Date:

– Membership Milestone Awards – Will we be presenting these at Christmas?  The Board agreed that Milestones will be in five (5) year increments; starting at 10 year membership. – John Corsi and Jennah Gliha.  Secretary has provided a Report of each member’s length of membership. 
– Friends of Belton Lions – additional Friend of Belton Lions: Hugh Shine has been approved – plaque has not been made – we need to schedule his lunch visit – we are scheduled to do this January 9^th.
– Update on Cadence Bank – CD and other – on hold
– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
– LEO – Leadership, Experience, and Opportunity

Motion to close: by Mike Matthews
Submitted by Belton Lions Club Secretary Karen Stagner

Members Present: Jennah Gliha, David Shaw, Wayne Carpenter, Mike Matthews, Mary Shockley, Karen Stagner, Danny Dossman, Billy Conway, Keith Cook, Larry Berg, Nick Valentine, John Corsi, James Harrison, Mac Hickerson, Dwayne Williams
Guest: Buddy & Joel Hickerson, Chris Gregg (guest of Jennah Gliha)
Song: by Lion John Corsi
Pledge to US Flag: Lion Larry Bert
Pledge to Texas Flag: Lion Mike Matthews
Prayer: Lion Wayne Carpenter
Joke: Lion James Harrison – little mermaid – you had to be there …
Plate Spin: Lion Mac Hickerson – World Renowned Place Spinner
Exercise: Lion James Harrison

Special Presentation:  On behalf of the Belton Lions Club Members, Lions James Harrison expressed the Club’s Appreciation, Gratitude and Honor to our own World-Renowned Plate Spinner Mac Hickerson; and presented him with a personalized T-Shirt and Commemorative Spinning Plate – autographed by each of the members.  Thank You Mac!

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

REMINDERS and ANNOUNCEMENTS:

– December BOARD meeting TODAY – immediately after Christmas lunch – short meeting

– Christmas Baskets for Special Needs Community – Delivery today – Thank you Chris Gregg, Jennah Gliha, Mike Matthews and David Shaw for delivering!  Thank you to everyone for contributing to the baskets; and Thank you to H-E-B for the turkeys!

– Project Angel’s HEARTBEAT BISD Homeless – Gifts due back TODAY – Thank you Keith Cook for delivering all to Christina Wilson at BISD.  Thank you to Chief Fontenot and Belton FD for the Emergency Preparedness Kits for the families.

– Pictures with Santa for Children with Special Needs and their Siblings will be Thursday, December 19^th – 5:00pm – 8pm, Harris Community Center.  Sign-up sheet to provide cookies; and/or to work the event passed. Info on BLC facebook

– MD2X3 Mid Winter District, Saturday, January 18, Gober Party House, Temple, Hosted by Temple Founders Lions.

– Stampede Bike Ride 2025 Date – April 26th, 2025 – in order to post the event details on the Active Endurance site in January; taking into account, the limited meeting dates in December – we need to have a committee planning meeting soon. We are only 4 months out and should start soliciting sponsors now.

Program: MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM Belton Lions Club

We celebrated the end of the year with our annual Christmas party and awarded our World Renowned plate spinner and second longest member of the Belton Lions Club, Lion Mac Hickerson, his very own spinning plate with all the Lion’s signatures and a t-shirt. Thank you for your service, Lion Mac.  The Lions also filled five baskets for “Friends for Life” with everything a family needs for a Christmas meal AND were also blessed to give 20 children gifts for BISD Project Angel HEARTBEAT. The Belton Lions had a very blessed year and we look forward to continuing to serve our community. Remember- If there is a need, there IS a Lion. 

Future Programs:
December 19 & 26 – No Meeting – Dec. 19 is Pictures with Santa at Harris Center 5-8pm – cookies & volunteers
January 2 – Brett Beamesderfer
January 9 – Larry Berg – plus Hugh Shine presentation “Friend of Belton Lions”.
January 15 – Wayne Carpenter – Board Meeting after
January 23 – Billy Conway
January 30 – Keith Cook
February 6 – John Corsi
February 13 – Danny Dossman
February 20 – Jon Fontenot – Board Meeting after
February 27 – Jennah Gliha

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

Keeping on the Front Burner:
– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
– Friends of Belton Lions – James Harrison coordinating
– LEO Club Update – Brett – future interested LEOs can help with events, as they further their plans.
– Lions Foundation Annual Report – Belton Lions Club Foundation By-Laws and Constitution. Texas Secretary of has provided a copy of the Articles of Incorporation from 1988.  By-Laws Committee to update soon.

BLC November BOARD Meeting Recap – November 21, 2024

Call to Order by Lion President Jennah Gliha at 1:05pm

Members Present: Danny Dossman, Jon Fontenot, John Corsi, Jennah Gliha, James Harrison, Karen Stagner
Absent: Keith Cook, Todd Schiller, David Shaw
Guest: none

Membership Report – Karen Stagner – Dues payment handout
Total Active Members – 37

Treasurer Report – Lion Treasurer Jon Fontenot
   General Account – $ 9K plus
Foundation Account – $ 40K plus
Edward Jones – August $23,624.47; September $23,699.13;
Raymond James – August $11,480.16; September $11,561.16; October 11,608.43

Old Business:

– Flag Program Unpaid flags have been removed from the list / Flag Team will be asked to check with Secretary for payment – prior to replacing flags.

– Specialty Products: The Club has received:
A.  500 BLC personalized “Learn About Eye Care” coloring books, from 4imprint
B.  200 BLC personalized microfiber cleaning cloths, full color print, 5.9”x5.9”

– MD-2 Texas Lions – Hurricane Relief for District MD-31 – North Carolina – President Jennah checked with other Clubs – no other District Club has contributed – BLC will do same.

– Tara Cotton (Belton) email to Lions International – daughter needs behind the ear hearing aids for bone conduction – insurance won’t cover the cost.  Full information; records; and manufacturer quote given to President Jennah to contact District for advice. 

– BLC Constitution and By-Laws – suggesting a Board Member take the Lead on this to work with the Committee. From the meeting, July 25^th, the Committee consists of: Brett Beamesderfer, Larry Berg, James Harrison, Jennah Gliha, Wayne Carpenter & Karen Stagner. Now that we have a copy from the Secretary of State, the Committee needs to begin an update. Club Secretary has sent out what we have – to the committee members.  Committee needs to meet right after the first of the year to get this moving forward.

– Mac Hickerson Life Membership – Secretary Stagner submitted Board approved Life Application to LCI Membership for referral to Board of Directors. We received an email response that we need to send an additional $150; as they raised the rate – need approval.  Lion Stagner has designed a t-shirt for Mac “International Renowned Plate Spinner”; and it will be printed by H&H.  We will also present Mac with one of the spinning plates, signed by all of the BLC members.  Secretary Stagner is coordinating with Mac’s family for a presentation to be made at an evening BLC meeting.  Motion to pay the $150 by James Harrison; 2^nd by Danny Dossman; approved.

New Business:

– America’s Best invoices for eyeglasses – Four (4) invoices for $79.95 each to America’s Best have been paid.  We just received a new one for payment approval. Motioned to pay by John Corsi; 2^nd by Jon Fontenot; approved.

– Update from Lions on the Leon AAR Meeting that took place on Monday, November 18^th. Danny updated plans for him and Patti Powell to approach Belton City Council about a beer & wine permit in Heritage Park – will report at next meeting – possibly having one of the Club Members pulling the TABC picnic license and selling beverages.  Danny also suggested an overall event plan to have the 5K earlier; then the 1^st race heat; then live music, events, game activities (suggested that we have more kid’s games – like Westphalia); then the 2^nd heat; then more live music, games, activities, food (sausage wraps, hot dogs, etc.) could be provided by volunteer Patti Powell and her crew; then addl. Heats.  Vendors will not be solicited. 24^th Street entrance will not be promoted – entry to the event should be from the parking lot topside.  Games could be set-up topside and riverside. The need for Lighting riverside may be a necessity for the event to extend after dark.  Karen Stagner reported that she has visited with Alacial (Killeen Parks & Rec) for the Cen-Tex Race Series.  It will be an outside chance that we get accepted into the Race Series in October; Alaciel will check to see if they can make an exception to their two events per month.  However, she has agreed that if we provide copies of our flier, she will put them in the September Race Series Runs’ race packets; plus, she will provide us with all of the Race Directors information, for us to request inclusion into ALL of their race packets.  We will also check with the Temple Race Series to see if we can get them to promote our 5K run.  Karen has designed a preliminary flier as: Captain “D”s “Run for Sight” to give the run a “cause” – noting that we could give everyone a pirate patch with the “run for sight 5K” on the patch.  The committee will meet again in December. 

Holding to a Later Date:

– Membership Milestone Awards – Will we be presenting these at Christmas?  The Board agreed that Milestones will be in five (5) year increments; starting at 10 year membership. – John Corsi and Jennah Gliha.  Secretary has provided a Report of each member’s length of membership. – No discussion at this meeting
– Friends of Belton Lions – additional Friend of Belton Lions: Hugh Shine has been approved – plaque has not been made – we need to schedule his lunch visit – we are looking to do this December 12^th or January 9^th.
– Update on Cadence Bank – CD and other – on hold
– Belton Lions Wall at Heritage Park – James Harrison coordinating
– LEO – Leadership, Experience, and Opportunity
Motion to close: by Jon Fontenot at 1:38pm
Submitted by Belton Lions Club Secretary Karen Stagner