Meetings 2022-2024
2023-2024
March 6, 202024 - Board Meeting Minutes, Wed. 7 p.m.Join Zoom Meeting
BOD present: Lion President Jack Wagner, Lions Nancy & John Watters, Nancy Lekberg, Roger Snell, Bob Perrine, Mike Coren, Fran Scott, Susan Sumnick and PCC Stanley Furman. Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order- 6:59
Treasurer’s Report – Lion Vickie Kennedy was not in attendance so Lion John Watters recapped the report.
Lion Jack Wagner: Nominations for offices are to be presented to the club at the March meeting. Lion Jack appointed a committee to fill vacancies. The vote for the next Lion’s year is to be held at the April meeting. The committee is Lion John Watters, chair, Lions Nancy Nelson with the help of Lion Nancy Lekberg, Lion Fran Scott and Lion Mike Coran. Anyone who wishes to remain in their position should let the committee know.
Secretary’s Report – Lion Nancy Watters
State Convention -April 18-21 Dulles, Va. – Lions Stanley & Jeri Furman, John & Nancy Watters and Vickie Kennedy have registered to attend. Delegate requirements for State Convention - Our club is allowed 3 voting delegates. The number of delegates is based on the number of full members in good standing for the last Lion’s year. Family members are excluded from the number. Polo Shirts – Lion Nancy Watters asked that she be allowed to place the polo shirt order using the Club credit card. The amount is $769.86. A deposit may be required. Members would then repay the club treasurer. Lion Stanley Furman moved that she be permitted to charge the shirts. Lion Nancy Lekberg seconded the motion and the vote was carried unanimously.
Service Reports - Lion Nancy Watters
*EGRC – John Watters reminded everyone that the next visit is on March 14th. Please see the reminders below for details. Please consider joining in the project. Lion John will send out a reminder.
*SPOT Screening is scheduled for Prince of Peace on Monday, March 25 and Thursday, March 29th. This is a new location where we have never been allowed to screen.
*Peace Poster – Lion Karen Austin was not in attendance but she wants to attempt the project again this year. Lion Nancy Watters attempted to order a Peace Poster Kit but the postage was $17.95. The kit was only $11.95. DG Homer advised that the incoming DG may be able to provide a kit or two. We will find out at the State Convention.
*Sight & Hearing Van – ALC – April 24th, 9-2 pm. We have a volunteer to do blood sugar screenings along with Lion Roger Snell’s wife, Mary. Barb Iman is a retired nurse from Trantwood Elementary School. We will need 5 volunteers to work on the van. Lion Nancy will make a work schedule to sign up for the next meeting.
*Reusable bag collection for Lynnhaven NOW. These are synthetic reusable, not plastic bags, that are to be given to Lynnhaven NOW to eliminate the use of plastic bags at retailers. We are also collecting plastic bags as well to be donated to our church to get a garden bench.
*ForKids has put out an urgent request for toothpaste, cleaning supplies, and towels.VBCPS Family & Student Wellness Expo at Bayside High School – has requested our participation again this year. Lion Nancy has decided that we do not need to participate in this project again this year. Our previous experience was not ideal with the location and number of people served. This health fair is redundant because we already do Jump Start and Va. Beach Ed Health Fair and Expo. Lion Nancy will refer them to another club in the Bayside area.
*Bland Music Competition – Lion Vickie Kennedy was not in attendance. Lion Jack remarked that the Club Bland was a wonderful success. The Semi Bland is on Saturday, March 30 at 2p.m. Lion Vickie will still need lots of support and assistance.
Fundraisers
*LOVF – PCC Stanley Furman – All tickets, money and stubs need to be collected at the March meeting. The State Convention meets before the meeting in April so all must be finalized. Peanuts – Lion Jack Wagner- We have collected $4,443.00 and expenses are $3,098.96. That is a net of about $1,400. On hand and paid for are a bit over $1,000 worth ready for sale.
*Broom sales are $270.00 and $316.00 are on hand, paid for and ready to sell. Many peanuts have been given away to participants and judges of the Bland, some to the VB rescue squad and fire departments. By the end of the year, we should have a net of about $2,500 for both peanuts and brooms together.
*Programs – Lion Bill Austin - March – Quilt of Valor presentation to Lion Dick Kreassig
From the Floor:
*Lion Jack asked if the Board would like to offer Seton House a cash contribution for their building fund. The thought of the Board was that we should continue to support them with in-kind donations rather than contributing to a building fund.
*Lion Susan Sumnick offered a date for feeding the kids at Beach Methodist on Monday, April 29th. Lion Nancy Watters, Nancy Lekberg and Stanley Furman volunteered for the project.
*Lion Susan, as Sight Chair, asked how far we should go in covering areas of service for providing glasses and exams for clubs that have closed or merged. Lion Nancy responded that the clubs that have merged, are still responsible for the areas of both merged clubs. OLG is now Virginia Beach Host and they cover both areas of service. Bayside is now Oceanside Bayside and they cover both areas of service. There should be a sight chair in each club that accommodates requests. The thought of the Board is that we should always consider providing help. If help does not come from other clubs responsible, we should step up and provide the service. Dr. Ferrara will do 3 exams and glasses for us free of charge each month. Lion Susie has gotten 6 requests recently but not all are in our area.
*Lion Jack revealed that Lion Mike has a possible contact for a broom sale location at Uncle Al’s on Va. Beach Blvd. in their parking spaces. Lion Stanley suggested that we do it on a Saturday during lunchtime. Lion Jack will work with Lion Mike to plan the sale.
Adjournment: 7:40
Upcoming Events:
Thurs. Mar. 14th– EGRC – 2040 Broadmoor Ave. Chesapeake – meet at Best Buy 9:30pm
Wed. Mar. 20th – Membership meeting – Bay Lake Retirement Center – 4225 Shore Dr. VB 6pm
Thurs. March 29th – Semi District Bland Competition – Thalia United Methodist Church –
Wed. April 3rd – Board of Directors meeting -Zoom – 7pm
Fri. April 19th – State Bland Competition – State Convention – Dulles, VA
Mon., April 29th – Beach Methodist Church – Feed the Kids 4:30pm
Membership Meeting, Wed. Feb 21st 2024- 6 pm. Bay Lake Retirement Center 4225 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order
Patriotic Song: Lion John Watters
Pledge of Allegiance – Lion Dorothy Young
Invocation: Lion Dick Kreassig
Introduction of Guests –Lion Nancy Watters – New members, John and Kathy Robertson to be inducted by 1st Vice District Governor Lion Dr. Kristina Ramsey
Additional guest: Lion Terri Miller from Craddock Lions Club
Guest Speaker: Michelle Broady from Seton House
Recess for Dinner
Reconvene for Program
Introduction of Guest Speaker – Lion Bill Austin –Michelle Broady Director of Community
Partnerships for Seton House.
Michelle joined Seton Youth Shelters six years ago, moving here from Williamsburg, Virginia. Michelle worked along with family members running the Williamsburg-Jamestown Airport, Charley’s Airport Restaurant and Waltrip Recycling, Inc. the largest wood recycler in Virginia. She also has over 35 years of volunteering with various organizations such as Avon Breast Cancer, WAC Swim Organization, Ducks Unlimited, Junior Women’s League, WASP-Williamsburg Aviation Scholarship Program and PTA. She specializes in community events while community youth outreach tops her daily routine.
Seton Youth Shelters provides 24-hour emergency shelter to children ages 9-17. The program serves runaway and homeless youth and youth in crisis within their schools or community. They accommodate both boys and girls in gender-specific shelters in Central Virginia Beach. All shelter youth attend local public schools or parent-provided homeschooling. Shelter residents are provided with youth advocacy and individual or family counseling. They facilitate community referrals, services and any other aftercare needed.
The Youth Outreach Program conducts direct street outreach up to age 21 throughout Hampton Roads. Seton House Mentoring program is available to youth 4-18 years old who have been affected by the incarceration of someone in his or her life. The youth and mentor spend approximately one hour per week together, with the commitment of a year’s partnership. The mentors are 20+, have passed a background check and are fully trained by the staff. The goal of the MCP program is to make a positive impact on youth by matching them with an adult friend who will foster a sense of self-confidence and positive outlook for the future.
While always in need of monetary donations, Seton House has needs for Household items, food products, kitchen items, bedroom items, arts and crafts materials, medical supplies, school/office supplies, athletic equipment, hygiene needs, and miscellaneous items. A list of those items are attached to the minutes.
Lion President Jack thanked Michelle for speaking to us and offered her the gift of a peanut trio.
New Member Induction: 1st. District Governor Lion Dr. Kristina Ramsey's induction of Kathy and John Robertson as new members. Lion Nancy and John Watters sponsored the new members. (pictures attached) Thalia Lions welcomes Lion John and Kathy. Lion John is a retired engineer and Lion Kathy runs their storage facility business. Lion Kathy formerly owned a flower shop. They are both very service-minded and are always involved in helping others.
Business Meeting:
Lion President Jack Wagner
Leadership Possibilities – Need for new members to volunteer for positions. The new Lions year is approaching and we need new leadership in our club. There are several online classes and information sites on the District 24I website for training. Please consider the opportunity to offer your leadership in any office. Those offices to specifically consider are President, VP, Sect. Sight & Hearing Van – drivers are needed. If you are at all capable, please consider reaching out to the District and offering your services as a qualified van driver.
Secretary Report – Lion Nancy Watters
*Winter Conference is Jan. 19th – Holiday Inn Virginia Beach-Norfolk Hotel & Conference Center – 5655 Greenwich Rd. Va. Beach. – (7) members attended and Thalia was awarded a Club Excellence Award Patch for our banner.
*Lion Jack, as President, was given a Club Excellence pin. Lion Nancy presented the pin to him.
*Lion Stanley Furman, as LCIF Chairperson, exhibited the Model Club Award from the Lions Charity International Foundation, also awarded at the Conference. This award, a beautiful plaque, represents our club’s generosity in supporting the Foundation to meet the Campaign 100 goals. Please read the attached letter to learn more about the award and the efforts of LCIF.
*Lion President Jack also received the yearly patch to be placed on our banner below our Membership Satisfaction Award. Please read the attached letter describing this award.
*Region Meeting – Region VI meeting – 6:30 social/7 pm dinner/ 7:30 meeting Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 5181 Singleton Way, VB – (6) members attended.
*Lion Nancy read thank you notes for donations from the following: King’s Grant Elementary School Clinic for $500 Ronald McDonald House for $200 Lions of Virginia Foundation for $500
Service Reports
*Meals for Students – Lion Susan Sumnick reported that she, Lion Bob Perrine and Lion Nancy Lekberg fed the children earlier in the year. These are children who are picked up from Cook Elementary and bussed to a church at the oceanfront. There is a regular schedule for these meals and Lion Susie is going to see when we may be able to offer the service again. Our club is interested in participating more often.
*Bland Music Contest – Lion Vickie Kennedy spoke about the Bland Music Competition to be held on Thursday, Feb., 22nd. She needs as many volunteers as possible to assist. At the moment there are 4 vocalists and 5 instrumentalists. One contestant is playing a special traditional Chinese flute. We have 3 instrumental judges and 1 vocal judge. The program starts at 7 pm but please arrive early. Semi District will be at the same location, Thalia United Methodist Church, on Saturday, March 30 at 2:00 pm.
*The State Convention is April 19-21st. Attached to Lion Nancy's email are the registration forms. The State Bland Competition will be held on Friday evening of the convention.
*SPOT screening – VBCC Preschool Feb. 1st. (54 with 4 ref) – Lion Nancy Watters We are contacting Prince of Peace to schedule and will also add Emmanuel Lutheran Church. In addition, Seton House has requested that we screen their eligible children.
*Adult Learning Center – Sight & Hearing Van – April 24th, 9-2 pm –Lion Nancy Watters reported that the Adult Learning Center will hold another health fair. The Sight & Hearing Van is scheduled. We will offer blood sugar screening if we can find qualified people to assist. They also have requested blood pressure checks. The van will require 5 people to work at each station.
*Beach Bag Project - Thurs. Jan. 19th- DG Homer Cook for International Director – Corporate Landing Middle School. (10) members participated in the event and packed 1,322 bags of food.
*Eyeglass Recycling – Lion John Watters will be on the second Thurs of each month. The next visit is on March 14th. Please meet at Best Buy at 9:30 if you wish to carpool. If you choose to drive directly the address is 2040 Broadmoor Ave. Chesapeake.
The new lensometer is fast, fun and easy to use. Processing the glasses is much quicker than before.
We are able to supply glasses in quantity to Gleaning for the World.
Our guest, 1st VDG Kristina, described how she took several hundred glasses on her recent trip to Cape Verde. Because the demand was so high, she is now sending more to the area.
Fundraisers: *Peanut Sales – Lion Jack Wagner has plenty of peanuts. He plans to give each of the Bland contestants and judges peanuts tomorrow evening.
Programs – Lion Bill Austin
March – Flag of Valor presentation to Lion Dick Kreassig
*From the Floor: Polo shirts – please see Lion Nancy Watters if you wish to order a new polo shirt.
*LOVF Raffle – Lion Stanley promoted the LOVF raffle. The books are $30 and the club keeps $20. The raffle is a great fundraiser. LOVF was formed to aid in disaster relief but has grown to support other needs of the clubs. In fact, the foundation has assisted with the purchase of many SPOT devices.
Tail Twister – Lion Stanley Furman
Feb. Birthdays – Lion Mike Coren is turning 91 years of age. We sang happy birthday to him and he won the 50/50 raffle of $63.00. Lion Mike donated the money back to the club activity fund.
Adjournment: 8:01 pm
Upcoming Dates & Events
Thurs. – Feb. 22nd – Bland Music Competition -Thalia United Methodist Church – 7pm
Wed. March 6th – Board of Directors meeting -Zoom-7pm
Thurs. March 14th – EGRC – 2040 Broadmoor Ave., Chesapeake, VA
Wed. March 20th – Membership meeting – Bay Lake Retirement Center – 4225 Shore Dr. 6pm.
Sat. March 30th – Semi District Bland Music Competition – Thalia United Methodist Church – 7pm
Wed. April 3rd – Board of Directors Meeting – Zoom 7pm
Wed. April 17th – Membership Meeting – Bay Lake Retirement Center – 4225 Shore Dr 6pm `
Wed. April 24th – Sight & Hearing Van – Adult Learning Center – 9-2pm
Feb 7, 2024 - Board Meeting Minutes, Wed. Feb 7 th 2024- 7 p.m.
Join Zoom Meeting
Board members present: President Lion Jack Wagner, Lions Nancy Watters, John Watters, Susan
Sumnick, Vickie Kennedy, Fran Scott, Mike Coren, Bob Perrine, Roger Snell,
Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order -7pm
Treasurer’s Report – Lion Vickie Kennedy
Lion Nancy Watters read a letter from the Lions Diabetes Camp thanking us for our club
donation of $200.
Lion Vickie had thank you letters for donations from some of the elementary schools and Ronald McDonald House.
Secretary’s Report – Lion Nancy Watters
*Region VI Meeting – Thurs. Feb. 8 th – 6 members are registered to attend
*LCFSVA Hunger Grant -$500 to TUMC Food Pantry
*Winter Conference – Thalia Lions was presented with a Club Achievement Award and Lion Stanley Furman accepted the LCIF 150% Achievement Award for Thalia Lions *Delegate requirements for State Convention - There has been a change in the calculation method for the number of club delegates sent to the State Convention. As interpreted, any member other than Active and Life may not be included in the total for club calculation. We will ask for clarification because the language is unclear as written.
*Member resignation – Lion Em has resigned because of health issues. Because is paid through June 30, we will keep her on the role and in good standing.
*Polo Shirts – Lion Nancy Watters is still receiving requests for polo shirts. Hopefully, we can finalize our order at the next meeting and continue the next step of pricing.
Service Reports - Lion Nancy Watters
*EGRC – John Watters will lead a group to work at the center tomorrow. He is hoping for a good turn out since we have the new lensometer.
*VBCC screening VBCC Feb. 1&2 – Lions Nancy W, Susan Sumnick and Rhonda Skaggs screened about 55 students at Virginia Beach Christian Church preschool.
*Reuable bag collection -Lynnhaven NOW is requesting reusable bags to clean and distribute to business and grocery stores where plastic bags are used. The collection may be delivered to the Brock Center.
*ForKids has put out an urgent request for toothpaste, cleaning supplies, and towels
*Bland Music Competition – Lion Vickie Kennedy is accepting applications for the competition on Feb. 22 nd . She will need the club to assist in the contest. Please be there by 6pm and she will assign work duties.
Fundraisers
*LOVF – PCC Stanley Furman was absent but he has distributed all the tickets and would appreciate the return of stubs and money as soon as possible.
*Peanuts – Lion Jack will take some peanuts to the Food Pantry at Thalia United Methodist Church. He has also taken a few to the fire and rescue stations.
Programs – Lion Bill Austin
*Feb – Seton House
*March- Vietnam Veteran Quilt Presentation
From the Floor:
Adjournment:
Upcoming Events:
*Thurs. Feb, 8 th – EGRC – 2040 Broadmoor Ave. Chesapeake – meet at Best Buy 9:30pm
*Thurs. Feb. 8 th – Region VI meeting – Emmanuel Episcopal Church – 5181 Singleton Way, VB 23452
*Wed. Feb. 21 st – Membership meeting – Bay Lake Retirement Center – 4225 Shore Dr. VB 6pm
*Thurs. Feb. 22 nd – Bland Music Competition – Thalia United Methodist Church – 7pm (please arrive by 6:15)
*Thurs. March 29 th – Semi District Bland Competition – Thalia United Methodist Church
Jan 17th, 2024 Membership Meeting, Wed.- 6 pm.
Bay Lake Retirement Center 4225 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order 7:28pm
Patriotic Song: Lion Vickie Kennedy – “It’s a Grand Ole Flag”
Pledge of Allegiance – Lion Mike Coren
Invocation: Lion Nancy Watters
Introduction of Guests –Lion Nancy Watters introduced prospective members, John and Kathy Robertson. Lion Nancy shared that they had just offered their application and check for membership. 1st. District Governor Lion Dr. Kristina Ramsey arrived later for the program.
Recess for Dinner
Reconvene for Program
Introduction of Guest Speaker – Lion Bill Austin and our speaker have a lot in common. Lion Dr. Kristina attended school in Memphis and that is where Lion Bill is originally from. Lion Bill shared that Elvis owned property near his parents' home and that he sometimes saw him. Lion Bill went on to welcome Lion Dr. Kristina and encourage everyone to read her very impressive bio which he printed and distributed on the tables.
Program: 1st. District Governor Lion Dr. Kristina Ramsey talked about her journey as District Governor. She was asked 3 years ago and she was not certain that she was ready. Since that time, she has constantly been asked what her theme for her year would be. Since she has a degree in chemical engineering, she is a doctor of optometry and she is a self-acclaimed Trekie. She loves to travel and has sacrificed her Star Trek Cruise for District Governor training in Chicago. So, she has tossed around many ideas. But everything led her back to the idea of service. In traveling to Pasadena over New Year’s for the Rose Bowl, she attended a church where she saw the motto “First, we serve.” She loved that emphasis on serving first above all else. Also, she is influenced by Dr. Martin Luther King’s quote of serving our beloved community. So, incorporating those ideas, Lion Dr. Kristina thinks her theme will be “First to Serve our Beloved Community.”
Lion Dr. Kristina will be leaving for Africa on Monday morning. Because she is going to Africa, she equates Lions with the African savannah. Lions are loud and courageous whose rumble and roar can be heard 5 miles away. They are the voices that point out needs and opportunities to serve. Others are like oxen. They bear the burden of getting the job done. They work hard and make sure the projects are executed. Some are falcons that soar above the community and see what needs to be done. They uplift others and bring others into service.
On that note, Lion Dr. Kristina encouraged everyone to identify their role in the Lions Club. We appreciate Lion Dr. Kristina’s enthusiasm and excitement in her role as 1st Vice District Governor and her upcoming role as District Governor.
Because we will be inducting 2 new members, the Robertson’s, at the next meeting, Lion Dr. Kristina has accepted the invitation to return to the Feb. meeting and do the induction.
Business Meeting:
*Lion President Jack Wagner
*Secretary Report – Lion Nancy Watters
Winter Conference is Jan. 19th – Holiday Inn Virginia Beach-Norfolk Hotel & Conference Center – 5655 Greenwich Rd. Va. Beach. (7-8 members are attending.)
Region Meeting – Region VI meeting – 6:30 social/7 pm dinner/ 7:30 meeting Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 5181 Singleton Way, VB $20 per RSVP 2/1
Thank You letter from Social Service was shared with the members.
Donation Presentation- Lion Jack Mallery shared that he and Lion Brenda have been affiliated with the Uptown Gay and Lesbian League for over 30 years. Their uncle who lives in the Los Angeles area was instrumental in the formation of the alliance. Its stated purpose is to provide scholarships for gay and lesbian high school students. The success of the league in the last 30 years has allowed it to expand to support other charities nationwide and to provide matching funds donated by its members. Because Lion Jack and Lion Brenda donated to the League, they tripled the amount and designated our club as the recipient of $1,050.00.
The secretary will respond with a gracious letter of appreciation to the League for their very generous donation.
We also appreciate Lion Jack and Brenda for choosing our club as their designated charity.
Treasurer’s Report – Lion Vickie Kennedy – Because our financial business is generally conducted in the Board of Directors meetings, Lion Vickie shared the report to show our membership our financial standing and the things we are supporting.
Service Reports
*Bland Music Contest – Lion Vickie Kennedy reported that the James Bland contest will be on Feb. 22nd at Thalia United Methodist Church. She will need assistants and we need participation from the club for this event. One of our vocal judges died last week, Agnes Mobley Wynn. She judged for many years and we are sorry for her loss. As a result, Lion Vickie will be searching for another vocal judge. Professor Larry Gibbens from ODU will assist with the local contest but we will need another vocal judge for the Semi District. The Semi District contest will be March 29th and the District contest will be on April 19th at the State Convention in Dulles, Va. Four or five other clubs will be holding contests this year. Lion Vickie is asking a previous State winner to entertain during the judge deliberation period. It will be a treat to hear him play again.
*SPOT screening – All the elementary schools were screened before Christmas. So now it is time to approach the preschools and daycares for screening. The first will be on Feb. 1st at Great Neck Preschool located in Virginia Beach Christian Church. Several volunteers have already signed up to assist. More will be announced later.
*Beach Bag Project - Thurs. Jan. 19th- DG Homer Cook is doing this project for the visiting International Director at our Winter Conference this weekend. The location is the same, Corporate Landing Middle School and the time is 5:30 pm. Lion Homer has received a $6,000 grant from the Lions of Virginia Foundation to finance the food for the packing. We have about 30 volunteers registered, many from our club.
*Eyeglass Recycling – Lion John Watters announced the purchase and delivery of a new piece of equipment. This machine will revolutionize how we read glasses. Lion John found the machine for a special Lion’s price of $7.000 instead of the retail price of $9,000. He convinced the EGRC Board to purchase the equipment. The Vision VX40 will read the prescription of the glasses instantly and requires almost no training. The machine arrived from Israel last week. Lion John hopes that more volunteers will go with him to the Eye Glass Recycling Center. Our participation has been very slack for several months. We need to enlist members to help in processing glasses especially since we are now providing glasses to Gleaning for the World. The next visit is Thurs., Feb.8th. Meet Lion John at Best Buy at 9:30 am if you wish to carpool. The address is 2040 Broad Street, Chesapeake, Va.
Fundraisers
*Holiday Peanut Sales – Lion Jack Wagner stated that we have lots of peanuts on hand and the price is reduced on most.
*LOVF Raffle – Lion Stanley Furman distributed a raffle booklet to each person in attendance. Each book has 30 tickets for $1 each. $20 from the sale of each booklet is retained by our club so this is a really good fundraiser. Raffle cash prizes are $10,000, for the winning ticket and $500 for the 2nd & 3rd tickets.
Please turn in your tickets and money in a timely manner.
Programs – Lion Bill Austin – The February program will be presented by Seton House
Tail Twister – Lion Stanley Furman led the group in a lovely rendition of Happy Birthday. Jan. Birthdays - Lions Vickie Kennedy (8), Stan Moss (28) Lion Dr. Kristina (31)
50/50 drawing winners were $25 – Lion Vickie Kennedy, $15 – Lion Rhonda and $10 – Lion John Watters
From the Floor: -
*Lion Susan Sumnick stated that she had received emails concerning the RAM project that is scheduled for the end of Sept. in Norfolk.
Lion John Watters gave a brief description of our unfortunate experience with RAM USA.
Many were surprised at the turn of events. At least 8-10 of our members made the trip to Wise County Virginia each July for about 15 years to participate in their projects. As a result, RAM authorized the organization of RAM Virginia which became quite successful with at least 6 active clinics and growing each year.
A year or so before the founder’s death, Stan Brock, RAM USA, without warning dissolved RAM Virginia, taking their equipment, bank account and assets. Since that time, our Lions have not participated in any of their events.
Adjournment: 7:40pm
Upcoming Dates & Events
*Thurs. Jan. 19- Beach Bag Project by DG Homer Cook for International Director – Corporate Landing Middle School
*Fri – Sunday – Jan. 19-21st – Winter Conference - Holiday Inn Virginia Beach-Norfolk Hotel & Conference Center 5655 Greenwich Rd. Va. Beach
*Wed – Feb. 7th – Zoom Board of Directors Meeting 7pm
*Thur. – Feb 8th – Region VI meeting – 6:30 social/7 pm dinner/ 7:30 meeting Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 5181 Singleton Way, VB $20 per RSVP 2/1
*Thurs. Feb 8th – EGRC – 2040 Broadmoor Ave., Chesapeake, Va.
*Wed. – Feb. 21st – Regular Membership Meeting – Baylake Retirement Center 4225 Shore Drive, VB
Jan 3, 2024 Board Meeting, Wed. Jan 3rd 2024- 7 p.m.
Join Zoom Meeting
Members Present: Lion President Jack Wagner, Lions Nancy & John Watters, Susie Sumnick, Bill Austin, Mike Coren, Vickie Kennedy, Nancy Lekberg, Fran Scott, and PCC Stanley Furman.
Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order -7:00pm
Treasurer’s Report – Lion Vickie Kennedy – Lion Vickie will disperse the budgeted contributions this month and will report those contributions to the club at the next meeting.
Secretary’s Report – Lion Nancy Watters
*Winter Conference – please see the attached registration forms. The deadline originally set for Jan. 5th has been delayed until Jan. 11th. All members are encouraged to at least attend the classes. The fee is only $20. If you plan to participate in the Beach Bag Project on the 18th, please let Lion Nancy Watters know and also indicate if you are planning to join the group at Dockside for dinner after the event.
*A Melvin Jones suggestion – Lion Dick Kreassig proposed a candidate for a Melvin Fellow at the end of this Lion’s year. Since there is plenty of time to consider, Lions Jack will appoint a Melvin Jones committee later in the spring.
Service Reports - Lion Nancy Watters
Secret Santa – Lion Nancy reported that we served 10 children with the project through ForKids. Holiday Families – Lion Stanley Furman reported that all 5 families were served. Ronald McDonald House – Lion Vickie Kennedy thanked the participants. They received many items and several cash donations from our Holiday Party Project.
Fundraisers
Jenny’s Jolly Jubilee – Lion Jack Wagner reported that we only sold about $300 in peanuts and brooms. The weather was very cold, and our location was not ideal. Hopefully, next year's project will be better. We have so many peanuts left that Lion Jack will contact Belmont to see if some can be returned or relabeled.
Programs – Lion Bill Austin had a cancellation for the January meeting. Lion Nancy has contacted 1st DG Lion Dr. Kristina Ramsey to see if she is available. Another idea from Lion Bill is that we might have someone from Quilt for Heros. So the program is TBA at the moment.
From the Floor:
*Lion Stanley Furman moved that we take $1,000 from Admin. Acct and move it to the activity account. Lion John Watters provided the second. The discussion revolved around the fact that we are paying all our budgeted contributions and the $1,000 would replenish some of those funds. The vote was unanimous to move the money to the Activity Account.
*Lion Susan Sumnick suggested that preliminarily decide which Holiday Project ideas we want to do for next year. Some of our experiences this year were less than satisfying.
*Secondly, Lion Susie suggested that we put the Tail Twister’s Fine Collecting Lion in a central location and have people volunteer their fines as they feel they can afford rather than soliciting everyone individually. We could see if the amount of collection stays relatively the same. Lion Stanley agreed without issue.
*Lion Vickie Kennedy shared that she did not have a good experience with her holiday family. Lion Bill Austin expressed the same feeling. She stated that the family was unappreciative and felt entitled. There was a discussion about the names of Social Services and how the families are selected. Lion Stanley stated that the families on SS are screened and are not supposed to be assisted by any other groups. But many times the family has found how to beat the system.
*Lion Nancy answered the question about ForKids stating that these children are in shelters and are not serviced by other organizations.
*Another suggestion is to work with the nurses and guidance counselors in our schools to select families. In that case, however, there is no screening for has who have contacted other services. Lion Jack asked Lion Stanley to assess the ideas and offer some alternatives for next year.
Adjournment: 7:37pm
Upcoming Events:
Jan. 17th – Membership Meeting – Baylake Retirement Center – 4225 Shore Drive, Va. Beach – 6pm
Jan. 18th – Beach Bag. (DG Homer Cook)- Corporate Landing Middle School – 1597 Corporate Landing Pkwy, V. B. 5:30pm
Jan. 19th -20th – Winter Conference – Holiday Inn Va. Beach 5655 Greenwich Rd. VB.
Nov 15, 2023, Membership Meeting, Wed. Nov. 15th, 2023- 6 pm.
Bay Lake Retirement Center 4225 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order – 6:30 pm
Patriotic Song: Lion Rhonda Skaggs – God Bless America
Pledge of Allegiance – Lion Mike Coren
Invocation: Lion John Watters
Introduction of Guests –Lion Bill Austin – Thomas Yager & Chef Christina from Mercy Chefs
Recess for Dinner
Reconvene for Program
Introduction of Guest Speaker – Lion Bill Austin
Program: Mercy Chefs – Thomas Yager
Thomas Yager, Vice President of Community Kitchens and Outreach with Mercy Chefs Thomas has worked with Mercy Chefs for 3 years, December 2020. Mercy Chefs has added 3 new community kitchens serving Nashville, TN, Dallas, TX, and most recently Richmond, VA. Before Mercy Chefs, he was the VP of Culinary at TASTE here in Virginia Beach for 10 years and ran the culinary production for all stores. Prior to that, Thomas was Sous Chef of Founders Inn and Spa in Virginia Beach 4 years after graduating The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY in 2006. He has lived in Chesapeake for the last 14 years with his family. His wife is a special ed elementary school teacher and we have 2 teenage daughters in Hickory.
Mercy Chefs started 17 years ago in Portsmouth. It is a faith-based organization that provides food relief in disaster areas. They are now working in 10 countries in addition to the many locations in the US. In 2016, Mercy Chefs reached the 1 million mark for meal preparation. But only 3 years later they reached 2 million and in 2020 the mark raised to the10 million level. Mercy Chefs works through mobile kitchens as well as semi-temporary facilities. The organization is fully funded through donations and through networking with major food suppliers like Omaha Steaks and Smithfield Foods.
Our club donated a case of 12 cans of peanuts to Thomas for Mercy Chefs.
Business Meeting:
Lion President Jack Wagner
Secretary Report – Lion Nancy Watters Winter Conference is Jan. 19th – Holiday Inn Virginia Beach-Norfolk Hotel & Conference Center – 5655 Greenwich Rd. Va. Beach.
Holiday Party- Wed. Dec.20th, 6 pm –2357 Haversham Close, VB (home of Lions John & Nancy Watters) Bring a dish – Bring treats for Ronald McDonald House.
MHK Award for Thalia Lions – Lion John and Nancy were invited to the” Rainbow Gala” on Nov. 4th held by Mile High Kids. Mile High Kids administers the Head Start Program. Thalia Lions has done vision screening for the Head Start Program for over 10 years. Virginia Beach Thalia Lions Club was given a plaque at the ceremony for being a Head Start Hero.
Service Reports
*Secret Santa –Lion Nancy Watters has taken 10 children in shelters to become their Secret Santa. Only 3 were left to be assigned. Lion Dick Kreassig, Lion Dorothy Young and Lion Stan Moss took the last 3 children.
*S&H Van – Lion Nancy Watters - Adult Learning Center – Wed. 25th – Thalia Lions screened 104 students for blood sugar and blood pressure. There were almost 90 that went through the S& H Van for vision and hearing screenings. We are scheduled to do this project again on Thurs. Jan 25th.
*Beach Bag Project - Thurs. Jan. 19th- DG Homer Cook for International Director – Corporate Landing Middle School. Lion Homer has received a $6,000 grant from the Lions of Virginia Foundation to finance the food for the packing.
*Jenny’s Jolly Jubilee – Atlantic Shores Lion Nancy Watters - The event will be on Dec. 14th from 5-7:30 pm. Thalia Lions will need to set up a display table with some sort of Christmas décor and sell peanuts and brooms. We may also collect eyeglasses and take donations. Volunteers are needed. Lion Paula offered the club 2 tables located inside the tent at Atlantic Shores. Lion Nancy Lekberg offered to get enough peppermint candy or candy canes to give out and to present them in some kind of Christmas container. Lion Susan Sumnick offered a small tabletop Christmas tree. Lion Nancy Watters has Lions tablecloths, a standing logo, and an eyeglass collection box. Lion Jack will provide peanuts and brooms to sell. Lion Nancy W will bring a cashbox and a credit card reader.
All club members are asked to attend or to work at the table. Please wear Lion wear and something Christmassy like a Santa Hat!!
*Meals for Kids report – Lion Susan Sumnick, Bob Perrine, Nancy Lekberg provided a meal to children picked up at Cooke Elementary School. The meal was served today, Wed. 15th at the Methodist Church on Pacific. They reported that the event was a great success and that the children especially enjoyed Lion Nancy Lekberg’s Mac & Cheese with cut-up hotdogs! Undies for Elementary Schools – Lion Susan Sumnick is collecting underwear, socks, and anything else that the schools might find useful.
*Water bottles for schools – Lion Susan Sumnick, Nancy Lekberg and Nancy Nelson assembled 100 water bottles that were delivered to our 3 elementary schools. They will work on getting the other 100 bottles readied and delivered when needed.
*Eyeglass Recycling – Lion John Watters and Lion Nancy Lekberg worked for 3 ½ hours each at the EGRC cleaning and reading glasses. They turned in a box of donated glasses as well.
*Donation of Washer & Dryer to Ronald McDonald House – At the last BOD meeting, Lion Vickie Kennedy confirmed that the RMH needed a washing machine. Lion Susan Sumnick donated both a washer and dryer to them. Lion John Watters and Lion Roger Snell delivered and installed the appliances the following week. In addition, Lion Nancy and John donated two sets of cookware to the kitchen at Ronald McDonald House
Fundraisers
*Reverse Raffle- Lion John Watters – results of the drawing. Winners were $100 to each of the following: Lion Jack Wagner, Martin Joseph, and Em Davis. Additional winners were Cindy Hogan, Lion Nancy Watters's sister, and Nancy Moss, Lion Stanley Moss's wife. The grand winner for this year, winning $5,000, was Lion Rhonda Skaggs!! Congratulations to all! Holiday Peanut Sales – Lion Jack Wagner is taking orders for the Holiday sales. He will probably make a couple of trips to fill the orders. The first order will be submitted next week. Please get your orders to him.
Programs –Lion Rev. Bill Austin - TBA
Tail Twister – Lion Stanley Furman
Nov. Birthdays –Lions Marvin Clemmons (4) Nancy Nelson & Jon Halvorson (27) Aziz Selahi (24) Rich Edwards (26)
Dec. Birthdays -Lions Jeri Furman (3), Dorothy Young (13), Jim Healy (19) Stan Moss(28) 50/50 – winners were: $25 – Lion Aziz Selahi $20 – Lion Fran Scott, $10 – Lion Vickie Kennedy
From the Floor:
Lion Stanley Furman expressed appreciation to the Lions who have taken on the Holiday Family Projects. He is hoping that all have contacted them and are progressing in their efforts to provide holiday food and gifts to the families.
Adjournment: 7:31 pm
Upcoming Dates & Events
Thurs. Nov. 24th – Happy Thanksgiving!
Wed. Dec. 6th – Thalia Board of Directors Meeting 7 pm Zoom
Thurs. Dec. 7th – EGRC – meet at Best Buy – 2040 Broad St. Chesapeake, VA
Wed. Dec. 20th – Holiday Party – Home of Nancy & John Watters – 2357 Haversham Close, VB 6 pm
Wed. Jan. 3rd – Board of Directors meeting – Zoom – 7 pm
Wed. Jan.17th – Membership Meeting – Bay Lake Retirement Center 4225 Shore Dr., V.B.
Thurs. Jan. 19- Beach Bag Project by DG Homer Cook for International Director – Corporate Landing Middle School
Fri – Sunday – Jan. 19-21st – Winter Conference - Holiday Inn Virginia Beach-Norfolk Hotel & Conference Center 5655 Greenwich Rd. Va. Beach.
Thurs. Jan 25th– S&V at Adult Learning Center -9am.-2 pm. 5100 Cleveland St.
Nov 1, 2023 - Board Meeting Virginia Beach Thalia Lions Club
Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order -7pm
Treasurer’s Report – Lion Vickie Kennedy
Secretary’s Report – Lion Nancy Watters
LCIFSV Food Grant – The Charity Foundation notified clubs of a possible $500 hunger grant per club if the application was made immediately. Since the Thalia United Church Methodist Church food pantry is supported by Thalia Lions, Lion Nancy made the application for that food pantry. She asked that the BoD please vote to approve her action after the fact. Lion Stanley Furman seconded the motion and the Board approved without question.
Service Reports - Lion Nancy Watters
*S&H Van Adult Learning Center – There were 104 blood sugar screenings and about 90 people who went through the Van for sight and hearing screening. We particularly appreciate our non-Lion volunteers who offered their service for the day. Mary Snell and Lion HiLo Laxo were additionally asked to screen for blood pressure because the designated person from the ALC had an emergency. The ALC has asked that we continue to offer that service in the future. In checking with our volunteers, they agreed to do it next year when we are back at the ALC in January.
The driver of the Van, Lion Mike Barber gave our club a bill for $117. But he said that he would remit the invoice to the Charity Foundation for reimbursement. He also suggested that the club might consider a donation in that amount. After presenting that suggestion, the Board decided not to take that action. The Charity Foundation has agreed to pay for S&H Van use through next year.
*Eyeglass Recycling visit – Lion John Watters reported again that participation in this project is lacking. EGRC now has an organization that needs glasses donated called Gleaning for the World. The problem is that we have thousands of donated glasses that must be cleaned, read and prepared to donate to the organization. Without more participation from our members to work at the EGRC, this mission is impossible. Lion John again asked for any suggestions to encourage members to volunteer. Visits are each 2nd Thursday of the month. The address is 2030 Broadmoor Ave. Chesapeake Va. Or you can meet Lion John in the Best Buy parking lot at 9:30 am to carpool to the EGRC.
*Dinner for Cooke Elem Children – Lion Susan Sumnick reported that Lion Bob Perrine and Nancy Lekberg will provide the meal for the children on November 15th. They will meet at the Virginia Beach United Methodist Church, 212 19th St. Va. Beach, at 4 pm.
*Update on Water bottles for schools – Lion Susan Sumnick reported that the water bottles arrived and they are meeting with Lion Nancy Nelson to assemble the tops to the bottles. She reported that there has been lots of money donated for the clinic as well. So Lion Nancy Lekberg has purchased socks in addition to the donated underwear to give to the schools. They will deliver the bottles and the other items next week.
*Holiday Family Project – Lion Stanley Furman reported that all the families have been assigned and many of the members are working in groups to help with the costs.
Fundraisers
*Southside Reverse Raffle – Lion John Watters stated that all tickets were sold and our club made a profit of $2,510. The drawing is Sat. Nov. 4th. Lion Vickie Kennedy will attend.
*Broom/Peanut Sale- Lion Jack Wagner reported that he has enough inventory for the event at Atlantic Shores. He purchased some small red brooms, especially at Lion Paula’s request. He also said that we should put a White Cane Collection bucket on the table. Lion Jack said we also have a “million” or so mints to give away. We may also provide candy canes.
*Lion Jack explained that the cost of peanuts, like everything else, has increased. He suggested that we increase the cost of a 10oz. trio to $25 and a 20 oz. trio to $35. If the same product is bought from Belmont in the retail market, the cost is $36 for the 10oz and $53 for the 20 oz can. So, our peanut prices are much below. Lion Nancy Watters will provide an updated order sheet for the membership. Lion Jack will place the orders as soon as there are reasonable requests and will possibly place additional orders as needed.
The order sheet is attached.
*Jenny’s Jolly Jubilee – Atlantic Shores – Lion Nancy Watters reported that the event will be on Dec. 14th from 5-7:30 pm. Thalia Lions will need to set up a display table with some sort of Christmas décor and sell peanuts and brooms. We may also collect eyeglasses and take donations. We will appoint a committee at the Nov. meeting.
Lion Nancy asked for approval to order official Lion's tablecloths for this occasion and for other times when we need public displays. The request was granted.
Programs – Lion Bill Austin
November- The Speaker is Thomas from Mercy Chefs. In Jan. a representative from Seton House will be the program.
Lion President suggested that we donate a case of peanuts to Mercy Chefs.
From the Floor:
Lion Jack reported that the Ronald McDonald House needs a washing machine because one of theirs has died. Lion Stanley moved that we take money from our Admin account, which is lush at the moment, and purchase a new machine for RMH. Lion Nancy Watters seconded the motion. In the following discussion, Lion Susan Sumnick offer to donate a machine that is in good working order if someone would pick up and deliver it to the RMH. Lion Susie’s offer was accepted with much appreciation. Lion John Watters will solicit assistance in pick-up and delivery.
Adjournment:
Nov. 4th – Southside Reverse Raffle Drawing – Founders Inn 7pm
Nov. 9th – EGRC visit – 2040 Broadmoor Ave., Chesapeake, Va. – meet at Best Buy 9:30 to carpool
Nov. 15th – dinner for Cooke Elem children- Va. Beach United Methodist Church. 212 19th St. Va. Beach, 23451 – 4pm
Nov. 15th – Regular Membership Meeting – Bay Lake Retirement 4225 Shore Dr. 6 pm
Nov. 23-25th Thanksgiving Holiday (all food for families should be delivered prior to these dates)
Dec. 6th – BOD meeting Zoom 7pm
Dec. 14th – Atlantic Shores Jenny’s Jolly Jubilee 5-7:30pm
Dec. 7-15th - Hanukkah
Dec. 20th – Holiday Party – 2357 Haversham Close VB (Home of Lion John & Nancy Watters) Bring treats for RMC
Dec. 24/25 – Christmas Holidays (deliver all food & and gifts to Holiday families prior to these dates)
Oct 18, 2023 -Membership Meeting, Wed. 6 pm.
Bay Lake Retirement Center 4225 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order 6:30 pm
Patriotic Song: Lion Roger Snell
Pledge of Allegiance – Lion Nancy Lekberg
Invocation: Lion Dick Kreassig
Introduction of Guests –
Lion Nancy Watters – guest Deborah & Frank Hughes
Lion President Jack Wagner offered words of wisdom concerning mammograms, prostate exams, flu, COVID, RSV and pneumonia vaccines.
Lion Nancy Lekberg updated the club on Nancy Nelson’s progress and asked all to remember her in their thoughts as she continues to recover.
Recess for Dinner
Reconvene for Program
Introduction of Guest Speaker – Deborah Hughes – Virginia Beach Education Foundation, Beach Bag Project Bio: A New Jersey native (don’t hold it against her), she migrated south to Old Dominion University where she finished her Bachelor of Arts degree in English, with professional writing emphasis with minors in Marketing and Speech Communication and continued at ODU to complete her Master of Arts degree—also in English.
For 32 years, she’s stayed in the area and has worked in public relations, event planning, and fundraising—28 years specifically in the non-profit sector.
For the last 22 years, she’s coordinated the 30-45 volunteer board of the Virginia Beach Education Foundation to raise private sector support to fund innovation and provide services for the whole child in Virginia Beach City Public Schools.
One of the programs serving the needs of students is the Beach Bags program for which she is here to talk about tonight. She has three children, two dogs and a passion for the “underdogs”— anyone or anything that needs more resources in their life.
As Director of the Virginia Beach Education Foundation, Debbie explained that the Foundation exists to support teachers and students without getting into politics. They fund classroom innovation and support the underdog.
One of the important projects is the House project where students in technical schools such as VoTec actually work with contractors and subcontractors to build a house. The Foundation purchases a piece of property and together they construct the home. This provides needed shelter as well as teaching construction skills to the students.
The Education Foundation also awards grants to teachers for innovative projects and for school and community projects. A perfect example may be seen at Redmill Elementary School where an entire room is dedicated to science experiences. Outside there are gardens that encourage hands-on experiences. The Foundation also accepts computers and laptops to be cleaned, reprogrammed and given to families without a dedicated computer in the home.
Taking on the cause of hunger, the Education Foundation started the Beach Bag Program. Thalia Lions just packed 2,500 with a grant from the Lions Charity Foundation of Southeastern Virginia in the amount of $10,000. This past week, 1,272 bags were distributed. Debbie explained that 46% of the students in the school system are on free or reduced lunch. The need for this program is increasing every year. Already, 41,000 bags have been given to students. The program normally expects to distribute between 900-1300 bags each week. They have a small group of ladies that pack bags for 2 hours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays each week to keep the program going. But only a very few donors make the impact that our club makes.
Business Meeting:
Lion President Jack Wagner
Secretary Report - Lion Nancy Watters
*Fall Conference reported that the emphasis at this conference was on leadership and mentoring. Many clubs work on increasing membership without consideration of developing new leadership initiatives. Lions Club International actually has a virtual leadership development system called Lions University. Lion Nancy also reported that Thalia stood out among Lions Clubs for dedicated service projects.
*Holiday Party- Wed. Nov. 20th, 6 pm - At the home of Lion John & Nancy Watters. This is a potluck, so please consider bringing a dish to share. Also, in the spirit of giving, please bring packaged snacks for Ronald McDonald House. RMC has been very generous in offering things to give to children for our special projects and screenings. So, it would be nice to think of them at this time.
Service Reports:
- Lion Nancy Watters
*Vision Screenings - As of Oct.18th, we have screened about 1,500 children and referred 268 for further examination. There have been some very important findings in the screenings.
*Beach Bag Project report – There were 87 volunteers for the project and 2,500 bags were packed within 1 ½ hours.
*S&H Van at the Adult Learning Center, 5100 Cleveland St. 23462 – Wed. 25th – 9 am-2 pm
Attached Schedule.
-9am-11:30am
1. Mary Snell (diabetes)
2. Roger Snell
3. Nancy Watters(diabetes)
4. John Watters
5.Jack Mallery
6. Dorothy Young
7. HiLo Laxo (diabetes)
-11:30am-2pm
1. Mary Snell (diabetes)
2. Roger Snell
3. Nancy Watters(diabetes)
4. John Watters
5. Fran Scott
6. Stephanie Peccia (diabetes)
7. Nancy Lekberg
-Lion Susan Sumnick
*Meals for Kids report – The next date for preparing a meal for the afterschool children at the Methodist Church on Pacific is our meeting date in November. However, that would not present a problem because the children are picked up precisely at 5 p.m. So, there would be time to get to our meeting.
Lion Susie will need 2 other volunteers to assist before she locks in that, November 15th date. If the November date does not work, she will look at dates in December. Please communicate with Lion Susie if you can help.
*Undies for Elementary Schools – We have been collecting underwear for the schools and reminded us that if children have accidents, their socks are usually wet as well. So, including crew socks in the donations would also be very helpful.
*Water bottles for schools – The schools are asking for some more water bottles. The price has increased to $300 for 200 bottles. But many of the schools have no potable water. Usually, there is only one filling station. The bottles are for those who do not have them, forgot them, or lost them.
Lion Stanley moved that we purchase 200 bottles and Lion Nancy Watters seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.
It was commented that putting the lids on the bottles might be a project that Lion Nancy Nelson would be able to do. That would keep her engaged in club activities and may even offer her some therapy. One other note is that many nurses are providing toothbrushes and toothpaste for students who do not have any. Maybe we could collect those items that are given to us at the dentist when we have cleanings or pick up extras when we think of it.
-Eyeglass Recycling: Lion John Watters is still very disappointed that few members are showing interest in the visits to the EGRC. We now have a connection to Gleaning for the World. They can use as many glasses as we can provide. So, it is now important that we get to work at the EGRC. We always go on the 2nd Thurs. of each month. The address is 2030 Broadmoor St., Chesapeake. If you can go, you may meet Lion John at Best Buy at 9:30am to carpool.
-Holiday Family Project – Lion Stanley Furman presented 5 families for members of our club to adopt to provide Thanksgiving dinners and December Holiday gifts and food. Before the end of his presentation, all families were covered.
Thalia Lions – Holiday Project 2023 Thanksgiving
1. Marlene Bermudez, 812 Hilltop Rd., 23454 (757)469 7773 Email – Marlenebermudez@yahoo.com
(1) Adult, Children: Lelyivd (M)11 and Jayden (M) 9 Lions Em Davis, Brenda Mallery, Rhonda Skaggs
2. Erika Grant, 2645 Budding Avenue, 23462 (757)944 8197 Email- erikagrant08@icloud.com
(1) Adult, Children: Chrisitee (F) 7, Chastin (M) 5 and Chase (M) 4 Lions Aziz Selahi, Nancy Watters
3. Laura Jones, 3929 Wyckoff Drive, 23452 (517) 291 1091 Email – kaman2885@gmail.com
(1) Adult, Children: Edwin(M) 10 and Jaden (M) 5 Lions Vickie Kennedy, Bill & Karen Austin, Paula Racey
4. Lavenda Marshall, 120 Price St. #201 23462 (757)831 6333 Email – vendamarshall@gmail.com
(1) Adult, Children” Elijah (M) 11, Londyn (F)8 and MiAngel (F)4 Lions Nancy Lekberg, Fran Scott, Nancy Nelson, Susan Sumnick
5. Sherrita Perry, 309 N. Rosemont Rd. #201 23452 (757) 944 5510 Email- perry2545@gmail.com
(1) Adult, Children: Kaylen(F) 9 and Brailyn (F)5 Lion Stanley Furman
Fundraisers
*Reverse Raffle- Lion John Watters has sold all the raffle tickets from the Southside Lions. Our profit is $2,510. The drawing will be on November 4th at Founder’s Inn.
*Atlantic Shores Proposal – Lion Paula Racey offered Thalia Lions Club the opportunity to participate and partner with Atlantic Shores in their Jenny’s Jolly Jubilee. We could set up a table with peanuts & and brooms for sale. We could also accept eyeglasses and hearing aids. They send out 17,000 mailers to advertise and they want to list us as a partner. The date is December 14th from 5 pm to 7:30 pm. Lion Stanley moved that we participate in the event. Lion Nancy Watters seconded and the club approved. This event will not require a lot of manpower but everyone in the club will be encouraged to come out and enjoy the fun, food and holiday festivities. Here is a link to a short video of the event last year. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxJ8MjdmjRg
Programs – Lion Bill Austin has engaged Mercy Chefs for our next meeting.
Tail Twister – Lion Stanley Furman – 50/50 winners were Lion John Watters ($32.00), Lion Nancy Lekberg ($16.00) and Lion Paula Racey ($10)
Birthdays –Lions Marvin Clemmons (4) Nancy Nelson & Jon Halvorson (27) Aziz Selahi (24) Rich Edwards (26) Time was running short and we did not get a chance to recognize these birthdays. But we wish all a very Happy Birthday and many more to come!!
Adjournment: 8:10 pm
Upcoming Dates & Events
Wed. Oct. 25th – S&V at Adult Learning Center -9am.-2 pm. 5100 Cleveland St.
Wed. Oct. 25th – Thalia Membership Meeting – Bay Lake Retirement 6pm
Wed. Nov. 1st – Thalia Board of Directors Meeting 7 pm Zoom
Sat. Nov. 4th – Reverse Raffle Drawing – Founder’s Inn – 7 pm
Thurs. Nov. 9th – EGRC – meet at Best Buy – 2040 Broad St. Chesapeake, VA
Wed. Nov. 9th – Provide food for Cook Elem students – Methodist Church on Pacific – 4pm?
Wed. Nov. 15th – Thalia Membership Meeting 6 pm Bay Lake Retirement Center 4225 Shore Dr.
Thurs. Nov. 24th – Happy Thanksgiving!
Wed. Dec. 6th – Thalia Board of Directors Meeting – 7 p.m. Zoom
Oct 4, 2023 Board Meeting, Wed.- 7 p.m.
Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order -6:59pm
Secretary’s Report – Lion Nancy Watters
*Lion Nancy reported that Lion Nancy Nelson will be released from Norfolk Sentara Rehab Center on Friday, Oct. 6th. She has remarkably improved but still has reading and some speech difficulties. As Lion Nancy understands, Lion Nancy Nelson will return home until she can be admitted to a private rehab center for continued therapy.
*Though there is no official word from Lion Paula, it is expected that she has recovered and returned to work.
Service Reports - Lion Nancy Watters
*Beach Bag Project is tomorrow evening. Please be there before 6 pm and park in the front bus loop parking lot.
*KidSight Vision Screenings – Since the beginning of Sept., our club has screened 875 students at 6 schools and referred 119 children for further examination. Lions Lekberg, Susan Sumnick, Roger Snell, Rhonda Skaggs, John Watters, and Karen Austin have assisted in this project.
*Screenings for Head Start will begin next week.
*S&H Van Adult Learning Center – Oct 25th Wed (We will be doing blood sugar screening. Mary Snell and Cindy Furman have volunteered to help. There is a signup sheet attached. The ALC has requested that we send the names of the volunteers as soon as possible for their security officers. Hopefully, we will have more volunteers to assist in blood sugar screening to relieve Mary Snell and Cindy Furman. If you are working the Sight & Hearing Van on Wed., parking will probably be a problem. We have 4 dedicated parking spaces in the Renaissance parking lot but that will not be enough. Just understand that you will need time to find a place and may have to walk farther than you anticipate.
*Eyeglass Recycling visit – Lion John Watters is disappointed that so few members are participating in the EGRC trips. He asks for any suggestions to encourage more club engagement. He will continue the trips each 2nd Thursday in the month for now but hopes there will be others to participate.
Fundraisers
*Southside Reverse Raffle – Lion John Watters reported that we have sold all 100 Reverse Raffle Tickets. The profit for our club is $2,510. That is half the sales. Lion John asked if he should request more tickets but the Board felt that we had sold enough.
*Broom/Peanut Sale- Lion Jack Wagner reported that we have not sold any brooms and only a few peanuts. There is still enough brooms at Paul’s for the display. All that was stored at Paul’s is now at Lion Jack’s.
Programs – Lion Nancy Nelson & Lion Bill Austin
*October- Our speaker for October canceled. We are attempting to get someone from the Beach Bag to speak. TBA
*November- Mercy Chefs
From the Floor: Holiday Party – Lion Nancy and John offered to host the Holiday Party this year. Lion Nancy suggested that it be a potluck and that each member bring snack items for Ronald McDonald House. Lion Vickie will send a list of items needed. She stated that she does not need children’s books.
Adjournment:
*Oct. 5th Thurs – Beach Bag Project – Corporate Landing Middle School 1957 Corporate Landing Parkway, VB 23454
*Oct. 10th Tues– Atlantis Head Start Screening (1 person)
*Oct. 11th Wed– Head Start Academy Screening (5 people)
*Oct. 12th Thurs. – Twin Canals Head Start Screening (2 people)
*Oct. 13-14th Fri & Sat – District 24I Fall Conference – Williamsburg
*Oct. 18th Wed. – Brookwood Elem Screening –(4 people )
*Oct. 18th Wed. – Thalia Membership meeting – Bay Lake Retirement Center – 6 pm 4225 Shore Drive, 23455
*Oct. 25th Wed – Sight & Hearing Van – Adult Learning Center - 5100 Cleveland St., VB 23462
Sept 20th, 2023, Membership Meeting, Wed. - 6 pm.
Bay Lake Retirement Center 4225 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order- 6:30 pm
Patriotic Song: Lion Nancy Watters
Pledge of Allegiance – Lion Susan Sumnick
Invocation: Lion Rev. Bill Austin
Introduction of Guests –
Lion Susan Sumnick - New member to be inducted, Dorothy Young. Dorothy asked to be a member when Thalia Lions was conducting a Blood Drive at VBCC.
Lion Nancy Watters – New member to be inducted, Brenda Mallery
Lion John Watters – New member to be inducted, Jack Mallery
Brenda and Jack are members of Virginia Beach Christian Church. There they saw what Lions were doing because several members were also Thalia members.
Recess for Dinner
Reconvene for Program
Introduction of Guest Speaker – PCC Stanley Furman – District 24I Governor Homer Cook (Please stand, if able, to welcome the DG) DG Homer Cook’s bio:
Lion Homer has been married for 36 years to Dee, they met in Guantanamo while he was in the Navy. He retired from the Navy and ended up going back to sea as a Merchant Marine. He has been a Lion since 1995 when he joined Oceanside Lions. While at sea his ability to serve was limited but he did what he could. He retired in 2018 and got more involved. He has served in the normal club positions, Zone O Chair and is the current District Governor. He is a progressive Melvin Jones Fellow, Member of the Lions Legacy Society, and a graduate of numerous Lions training institutes. He believes in doing what we say we are going to do. Provide fellowship for our members and service to our communities. Plant the seed, tend it and you may get to enjoy what grows.
Governor’s address
DG Homer informed the club of this year’s International theme, Changing the World. International President, Dr. Patti Hill wishes to increase Lions Club membership to 1.5 million for this year, 2023-24. He also encouraged attendance at the Fall Conference and the Lions Leadership Training during the month of October. The Winter Conference will be held in January and the Regional Lions Institute Training will be in March. DG Homer emphasized that a goal is to have every officer go through the LCI training. He also pointed out that it is easier to recruit members through service and service projects. Lion Homer encourages the club to think out of the box for service projects, for club meetings, and retaining members. He also reminded us to support LCIF as much as possible with our donations. DG Homer encouraged our club to participate in the Lion’s Safari, which once was called Traveling Leo, where we visit other clubs to learn how other clubs operate. This year, DG Homer has reinstituted the Proud Lion Program. This program is to encourage new members and sponsors to complete certain requirements to earn a Proud Lion.
Induction of 3 new members by District Governor Homer Cook
We welcome the following new members:
*Lion Dorothy Young – volunteers with the Food Bank and Salvation Army. She enjoys volunteer work and wants to participate in our Club. She is the Principal’s Secretary at Independence Middle School.
*Lion Brenda Mallery – is a licensed social worker, semi-retired and a member of VBCC where she saw the service provided by Lions and wished to be a part of the Club.
*Lion Jack Mallery – has been a therapist for over 50 years and is now partially retired. He is licensed as a Professional Counselor, Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner, Marriage Counselor and is a Clinical Supervisor on both State and Federal levels. Lion Jack and his wife, Lion Brenda, are members of VBCC and the Medical Reserve Corp. Both participated in the Covid vaccination program and with counseling for the Va. Beach shootings.
Business Meeting:
*Lion President Jack Wagner reminded everyone of the importance of keeping meal contract commitments. We have a wonderful arrangement with Bay Lake Retirement Center and wish to stay in good standing. If we make a reservation for the meal and do not attend, we are required to pay the $20.00 commitment.
*Lion Jack updated the club on Lion Nancy Nelson and Lion Paula Racey- Lion Nancy Nelson had a heart valve replacement, then a stroke. She is in Norfolk Heart Hospital where she received a pacemaker on Monday. Lion Nancy is recuperating well from the effects of the stroke. She is in rehab at Sentara Norfolk, room N908. Lion Paula Racey is still recovering from retinal surgery. She has had to stay still and quiet for the last 3 weeks or so. She is expecting good news from her Dr. on Thurs. and hoping she will return to work.
Secretary Report – Lion Nancy Watters
*Fall Conference Information – flyers were on the tables and attached to these minutes. The deadline for registration is Sept. 29th. The Conference is in Williamsburg on the weekend of the 13-14th.
*New Member Orientation PowerPoint – Lion Nancy sent the Power Point to our 3 new members and offers it to anyone who has never seen this year’s orientation.
Service Reports
*Lion Nancy Watters
-Vision Screenings - Head Start and Elementary School Screenings schedule - schedule was available to sign up and results are attached to these minutes.
-Beach Bag Project – Oct. 5th Corporate Landing Middle School 6 pm – This is “All Hands-on Deck” time. Please be at the site between 5:30 pm and 5:45 pm. You will need to sign in and sign a photo release form. We will pack 3,000 bags of food. Hopefully, WTRK will have a camera there and cover our event. We need 50-70 volunteers, so please invite family and friends.
*Lion Susan Sumnick
-New Project introduction: Suggested we prepare a meal for homeless children. There are 15-25 children from Cook Elem who are picked up on Mon and Wed each month. They are brought to Va. Beach Methodist Church where they are tutored and given activities until 5pm. At that time, the children are fed a meal provided by volunteers. The meals include an entrée, veggie and possibly fruit or cookies. We would need to provide the food and serve the meal. It is suggested that 3 people per meal works best. The Club liked the idea and members are encouraged to talk with Lion Susie to make arrangements. The foods the students like best are mac and cheese with hotdogs cut up and pizza. Lion Susie has participated in this program for a while and knows how it works. Please consider offering her a helping hand. If the Club finds this project satisfying, we may decide to do it on a regular basis.
-Undies for Elementary Schools: She delivered 90 pairs of undies to Kings Grant Elem. Little did she know that the nurse was desperate because there was absolutely no supply and had asked the Principal what to do. She was brought to tears when the underwear was delivered.
*Lion John Watters schedules a visit to the Eye Grass Recycling Center each 2nd Thursday of each month. He encourages more members to participate. If you need to carpool to the Chesapeake location, meet him at Best Buy at 9:30. *Lion Karen Austin repotered on the Peace Poster. She has had little response for the Peace Poster and is open to any idea anyone may have to increase participation.
*Lion Stanley Furman presented the Family Holiday Project for this fall/winter which has been held yearly now for several yaers. The consensus was that we would take 5 families and cover their food and gift needs for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Lion Stanley will get names from Social Services. He asks for single-parent families.
Fundraisers - Reverse Raffle- Lion John Watters encouraged members to purchase raffle tickets. Our club keeps half of the sales. At this point he has sold a little over 50 tickets. The price is $60 each or 2 for $100. Only 400 tickets are sold. The last ticket is the barrel is worth $5,000 and each 25th ticket drawn wins $100. Plus, there are other incremental winning tickets.
Programs – Lion Bill Austin – the next program will be presented by a young man from the YMCA on staying fit in your later years.
Birthdays: Tail Twister Lion Stanley Furman recognized birthday by having the members stand and sing to the following celebrants:
Lions Stanley Furman (9/30), Dick Kreassig (9/23) Jack Mallery (9/22), Fran Scott (9/2), Roger Snell (9/6), and Billy McIntyre (9/2)
50/50 winners were -$30,Lion Rich Edwards; $20, Lion Ellen Turman; and $15, Lion Steve Eggleston
From the Floor: no comments
Adjournment: 7:59pm
Upcoming Dates & Events
*Sept. 21st – Windsor Oaks SPOT screening
*Wed. Sept. 27th – Sunnybrook Day School- SPOT screening
*Thurs. Sept. 28th – Sunnybrook Day School- SPOT screening
*Tues. Oct. 3rd. – Thalia Elementary School – SPOT screening
*Wed. Oct. 4th – BOD meeting Zoom 7 p.m.
*Thurs., Oct.5th – Beach Bag Project 6 pm – Corporate Landing Middle School
*Tues. Oct. 10 – Atlantis Head Start – SPOT screening
*Wed. Oct. 11th – Head Start Academy – SPOT screening
*Thurs. Oct.12th – Eyeglass Recycling – 2040 Broadmoor Ave. Chesapeake, VA (Meet at Best Buy 9:30 a.m. to carpool
*Thurs. Oct. 12th – Twin Canals/ Stonehouse Head Starts - SPOT screening
*Fri., Oct. 13-14 Fall Conference – Williamsburg, VA- Clarian Hotel 3032 Richmond Rd.,
*Wed. Oct. 18th – Brookwood – SPOT screening
*Wed. Oct. 18th – Membership meeting Bay Lake Retirement Center 4225 Shore Dr. VB 2345
*Wed. Oct. 25th – Sight & Hearing Van w/diabetes screening – 10am-2pm- Adult Learning Center
Sept 6, 2023 - Board Meeting, Wed. Sept. 6th- 7 p.m.
Join Zoom Meeting
Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order 7pm
Treasurer’s Report – Lion John Watters presented the report for Lion Vickie who could not be present
Secretary’s Report – Lion Nancy Watters
* New Member Application – Dorothy Young submitted her application and check for $150 to apply for membership. Lion Nancy moved that she be accepted. The motion was seconded by Lion Nancy Nelson. The Board approved the membership unanimously.
*Fall Conference Information: Please see the attached – Lion John and Nancy Watters plan to attend and would love some more of our members to participate. The Conference is in Williamsburg.
Service Reports - Lion Nancy Watters / Lion John Watters
*KidSight Vision Screenings: Malibu, Sept. 13th. That day is before the meeting on the 20th. Lions Karen Austin and Nancy Lekberg have volunteered along with Lion John and myself. Almost all the other screenings have been scheduled. The schedule is attached and shows the dates, schools and how many volunteers are needed. Please volunteering. These services are important and our “signature” projects.
*S&H Van Adult Learning Center – Diabetes screening will be offered -Oct 25th Wed 10- 2pm.
*Eyeglass Recycling visit – Lion John Watters reported that this visit is special because it will be a training session for Kempsville. We would love to have several members of our club a possible.
Fundraisers
*Southside Reverse Raffle – Lion John Watters has 100 tickets to sell. If we sell them all Our club will make about $2,500. Only 28 tickets have been sold to date. Please consider purchasing a ticket for $60 or 2 tickets for $100.
*Broom/Peanut Sale- Lion Jack Wagner has not been able to find a good place that will allow us to sell brooms or peanuts. But he has a good supply if anyone wants to purchase them.
Programs – Lion Nancy Nelson & Lion Bill Austin
*September - District Governor’s Visit – Lion Homer Cook
*October – Lion Bill has a young man from the YMCA who will speak about how to be healthy as Seniors.
*November- Mercy Ships and how they help in disaster areas
*December – Holiday Party
From the Floor:
*Discuss reservation & meal costs – Lion Nancy Nelson stated that the menu for the meeting on the 20th is Meatloaf wrapped in bacon or Shrimp in Cream Sauce. Because there have been so many cancellations at the last minute for meeting meals, the BoD wishes to remind every member that if you make a reservation for a meeting meal and do not attend the meeting, you are responsible for paying the $20 meal cost. It is not fair to Bay Lake Retirement Center to absorb our meal cost or the cost of preparing and serving the meal. And it is not fair to our Lions Club to pay for a meal when you do not attend.
*New Project Idea: Lion Susan Sumnick - Lion Susie suggested that we participate in meals for homeless children. On Each 2nd and 4th Wed., 15 to 22 children are picked up from Cooke Elementary School and bussed to Va. Beach Methodist Church on 19th &Pacific. The students are tutored and given activities until 5pm. At that time, they are fed a meal by volunteers and then picked up by their parents at 5:30. Lion Susie suggested that we volunteer to prepare meals. Usually, about 3 people are needed, one for entrée, one for veggie and one for fruit. Their favorite things are mac & cheese, hotdogs, sliders and pizza. This project runs from October through May each year. It works best if we bring the food ready and made so that nothing needs to be done except serving the children. Lion Stanley suggested that we may be able to move money from our admin account to the activity acct. to cover some of the charges. The BoD liked this idea and it will be on the agenda at the meeting.
*Added to the minutes: I don’t know how I possibly forgot to emphasize that the Beach Bag Project is slated for October 5th. DROP EVERYTHING to help with this project. We received a grant from the Lions Charity Foundation of Southeastern Virginia for $10,000 to purchase food for this project. On Thursday, Oct. 5th, at Corporate Landing Middle School starting sharply at 6 pm, we will pack about 3,000 bags of food for kids to take home over weekends and holidays. Everyone in the club MUST be a part of this project. Please mark your calendars and prepare to work a few hours.
We will need between 50-70 volunteers. I am asking from my church, my golf group and from you all. Please feel free to invite others and to bring family members. Thanks, Lion Nancy
Adjournment: 7:39pm
Upcoming
*Sept. 13th, Wed. – Vision Screening – Malibu Elementary – (4 people)
*Sept. 14th Thurs. – Eye Glass Recycling Visit & Training – 9:30 at Best Buy to Carpool
*Sept. 19th – Windsor Woods Screening – (2 SPOTS – 5 people)
*Sept. 20th Wed. – Membership meeting – Bay Lake Retirement Center – 6 pm 4225 Shore Drive, 23455
*Sept. 21st Thurs- Windsor Oaks Screening (2 SPOTS -5 people)
*Sept. 27th Wed – Sunnybrook Day School (3 people)
*Sept. 28th Thurs – Sunnybrook Day School (2 people)
*Oct. 4th Wed. – Thalia Board of Directors meeting – Zoom 7 pm
*Oct. 5th – Beach Bag Project – Corporate Landing Middle School 6pm
*Oct. 10th Tues– Atlantis Head Start Screening (1person)
*Oct. 11th Wed– Head Start Academy Screening (5 people)
*Oct. 12th Thurs. – Twin Canals HStart Screening (2 people)
*Oct. 13-14th Fri & Sat – District 24I Fall Conference – Williamsburg
*Oct. 18th Wed. – Thalia Membership meeting – Bay Lake Retirement Center – 6 pm 4225 Shore Drive, 23455
*Oct. 25th Wed – S&H Van with Diabetes screening at the Adult Learning Center 10-2pm
Aug. 16th 2023 - Membership Meeting, Wed. 6 pm.
Bay Lake Retirement Center 4225 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order 6:30pm
Patriotic Song: Lion John Watters – “It’s a Grand Ole Flag”
Pledge of Allegiance – Lion Rhonda Skaggs
Invocation: Lion Aziz Selahi
Introduction of guests – Arriving late were Lions Jody and Brian Miller from the Southside Lions Club. Lion Nancy Watters - Lion Mack Stevens, PDG Beth Stevens, Lion Annie Asher and Town Center Blind Lion’s new member, Terri Morelen.
Recess for Dinner- 6:35
Reconvene for Program -7:00 pm
Lion Nancy Watters introduced our guest speaker Lion Mack Stevens, Global Membership Team Chair for District 24-I:
Lion Mack Stevens joined the Town Center Blind Lions Club in June of 2010. He is serving as club president for the 4th time, served twice as 1st vice president and membership chair.
Mack helped District 24-D achieve growth in 2 of 5 years serving as the District Global Membership Coach. He is the current Global Service Team chair for District 24-I.
In addition to his leadership positions, Lion Mack served 5 years as Lion’s liaison for 24-I Vision Walk, chairperson for the Anthem / Lions service day 2019, and our club’s 4th-grade foresters project.
He has chaired our club’s largest fundraiser the 400 raffle for the past 4 years.
Lion Mack is a graduate of the Regional Lions Leadership Institute and Advanced Lions Leadership Institute. He has served as a trainer at the club, district and multiple district levels on many occasions. Mack also trained at the Faculty Development Institute in 2020.
Lion Mack graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Technology Education from Old Dominion University. He went on to receive a master’s in Business Education from ODU in 1988. Lion Mack worked as a certified instructor for the American Red Cross teaching CPR Professional Rescuer, CPR and First Aid for 8 years. He has been employed as a Technology Education teacher in Virginia Beach for 35 years. Lion Mack taught Engineering courses at Landstown Governor’s STEM Technology Academy for 9 years. He is currently in his 7th year teaching Modeling and Simulation at the Advanced Technology Center for Virginia Beach City Public Schools where he was recognized as the 2017-18 Teacher of the Year.
In 2017 Lion Mack served in his most cherished role as the husband and driver of our outstanding Past District Governor, Lion Beth Stevens.
Lion Mack presented a PowerPoint New Member Orientation covering the origin of Lions, its history and structure from International to Club, and the impact of Lion’s service worldwide. He updated the new district officers for 2023-24, the goals of the District for this year and encouraged everyone to recruit new members.
Business Meeting: Lion President Jack Wagner –
*Bayside Merger - Lion Jack sent a letter regretfully cancelling the merger with Bayside Lions emphasizing that Thalia Lions did not wish to give up our Charter for the merger. Since our club is the youngest of the two, that would be an LCI requirement.
*Donation- Lion Jack announced that Lion Paula Racey, representing Atlantic Shores, had made a generous donation in memory of Lion Linda Eggleston. He expressed gratitude of the club for her generosity.
Secretary Report – Lion Nancy Watters
*Humanitarian Award – Lion Nancy reported that our Club did not receive the Humanitarian Award but that the evening with WTKR was one of the most meaningful of her life. All contestants and their families were hosted for dinner at the WTKR studios catered by Cinema Café. Afterward, each person was highlighted and interviewed on stage in the auditorium, given an engraved crystal award and a very nice bookbag filled with wonderful gifts.
The gentleman receiving the Humanitarian Award was an exceptionally deserving candidate who started the Hope Foundation. The Foundation sees that yards are maintained for senior citizens who are not able to keep up their lawns.
Lion Nancy felt honored to represent our Club and had a chance to promote the work of Lions.
*Fall Conference - Information has been emailed and Lion Nancy encouraged everyone to consider attending especially since we want to support Lion Homer in his year as District Governor and the Conference is in Williamsburg.
Service Reports
Lion Nancy Watters:
*Adopt a Student - 26 bookbags were purchased and filled by Thalia members and friends for the Adopt a Student Project. Thanks to all who purchased supplies and delivered them to Image Services.
*Jump Start – Thursday, August 10th at Corporate Landing Middle School, Thalia was joined by Town Center Blind Lions and Virginia Beach Host. Each club vision screened about 100 students. There were giveaway packets donated by Ronald McDonald House offered to those who were screened. Thanks to all who helped in the screenings.
*Back to School Care Fair - Saturday, August 12th at the Convention Center, Thalia Lions vision screened 283 students in 4 hours. Again, Ronald McDonald House donated about 200 pencil cases as giveaways. Thanks to all who assisted in this project.
*Vision Screenings - Head Start and Elementary School Screenings are in the process of being scheduled since school is starting early in August.
*Beach Bag Project – The date is Thursday, October 5th, 6 pm at Corporate Landing Middle School. Please plan to attend and help with this important project.
Lion Nancy Nelson:
*VBCC Blood Drive August 5th – our blood drive yielded 23 pints of blood. Again, several members assisted with the project. Thank you.
Lion John Watters:
Lion John reminded everyone that Eyeglass Recycling trips are held each second Thurs of the month. The next is on Sept. 14th. This is a special orientation and training session including the Kempsville Lions Club. Please meet at Best Buy at 9:30 am, if you wish to carpool. If not, be at 2040 Broad Street, Chesapeake, VA by 10 am..
Fundraisers - Lion John Watters announced that the Southside Reverse Raffle will begin within a few days. Please consider buying and or selling the tickets. They are $60 for one or $100 for two tickets. Only 400 are sold making the odds very good for winning. Tickets are drawn from a barrel. Every 25th ticket wins an amount with larger increments as the barrel numbers decrease. The final ticket in the barrel is worth $5,000!
Programs – Lion Nancy Nelson reported that we are attempting to enlist Ann Christie, who is with AidNow for our next program. Ann’s organization is responsible for JumpStart which offers many needed supplies and services to students in need.
From the Floor:
Adjournment:
Upcoming:
Wed. Sept. 6th – Zoom BOD meeting at 7 pm
Thus. Sept. 14th – EGRC – 2040 Broad Street, Chesapeake, Va. or meet at Best Buy at 9:30 am to carpool
Wed. Sept. 20th – Regular membership meeting – Bay Lake Retirement Center – 6:00 pm
Thurs., Oct.5th – Beach Bag Project 6 pm – Corporate Landing Middle School
Fri., Oct. 13-14 Fall Conference – Williamsburg, VA- Clarian Hotel 3032 Richmond Rd.,
Aug 2, 2023 - Board Meeting, Wed. August 2nd- 7 p.m.
Join Zoom Meeting
In attendance: Lions Jack Wagner, John Watters, Nancy Watters, Vickie Kennedy, Stanley Furman, Fran Scott, Nancy Lekberg, Susan Sumnick and Gremlin (the cat) Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order 7pm
Audit Committee report – Lion Jack Wagner (Committee members – Lions Jack, Vickie, Stanley) Lion Stanley reported that the books were in order, the bank account in balance and there was nothing improper in the accounting. Lion President Jack commended Lion Vickie for her diligence in keeping the club accounts in order.
Bayside Lions Club Merger Proposal - Lion Stanley Furman & Lion John Watters – report on the disposition of the Charter if the merger were to happen between our two clubs. Lion Stanley checked with LCI and found that when clubs merge, the oldest club’s charter would take precedence over the younger club’s charter. Thalia is not willing to turn in our charter. Lion Stanley suggested that we write Bayside Lions a letter respectfully declining their offer to merge with our club. Lion Jack, as President, volunteered to compose the letter on Thalia Lion’s letterhead stationary.
Lion Stanley’s thought was that if they do not merge, some of the members may migrate to other clubs including ours.
The BOD was in consensus.
Treasurer’s Report – Lion Vickie Kennedy
Secretary’s Report – Lion Nancy Watters
*Club Excellence Award will be submitted for the year 2022-23 – Our club qualifies and the application will be submitted by the August deadline.
*New Lions International President 2023-24 - Dr. Patti Hill from Edmonton, Alberta. The theme for this year is Changing the World.
*Lions Medical Eye Bank Dinner – Aug. 24th – Norfolk Yacht Club – Lion John Watters has reservations for seven people. If there are others interested, please let him know immediately.
Service Reports - Lion Nancy Watters
*Adopt a Student Project – Our Club and friends have covered 20 children. Since (the BoD meeting 2 others have been added.) Bookbags and all school supplies are collected for homeless students and delivered to Image Services to be distributed to the appropriate shelter.
*VBCC Blood Drive, Aug. 6th 11-4pm. – Lion Nancy Nelson has 15 donors scheduled for blood donations. Volunteers are still welcome to assist. If you can come early, a bit after 10 am, please come and help with whatever they want. The work schedule is attached.
*Jump Start – Thursday, August 10th - Corporate Landing Middle School 9-5 pm – Corporate Landing Middle School. More volunteers are needed for the 1st hour, especially to set up.
*Back to School Care Fair - Saturday, August 12th – Convention Center 10-2 pm, Please put both those dates on your calendar because we will need lots of volunteers!!
*Lion Nancy just received notice from the event that all items used for set up must be carried through the front doors. Nothing can be rolled in for fear of breaking the glass.
Arrangements must be made with the loading dock for an appt. time for all items that must be rolled into the Convention Center.
Since most of our things are in rolling luggage or such, the plan is to roll to the door, pick up and carry through and then continue to roll to the site.
*We do not have enough volunteers yet. So far only Lion Nancy, John, and Susan Sumnick are signed up. Lion Rhonda will be there from 10:30 until 12:00. Please consider coming out to assist. The schedule is attached.
Fundraisers
*Southside Reverse Raffle – Lion John Watters has been in touch with Southside in regard to their fundraiser. Lion John will get 100 tickets for us to buy and sell. We keep half of all our sales. $60 per ticket or $100 for two tickets. There are money prizes for each 25 tickets pulled with a $5000 winner for the last ticket in the barrel. Ticket sales are limited to 400 tickets. Thaila has sold many winning tickets. This is one of our largest fundraisers.
*Broom/Peanut Sale- Lion Jack Wagner reported that we have peanuts and brooms if anyone wants them. He will have them at our meeting and at the Blood Drive.
Lion Stanley spoke to the owner of B.J.’s Shopping Center and apologized for his response to being refused access for our club to do White Canes there. The owner asked Lion Stanley how much we made on average per collection. Lion Stanley told him $1,000. He indicated that he would consider sending a check to the club.
Programs – Lion Nancy Nelson & Lion Bill Austin
*August – New Member Orientation – Lion Mack Stevens
*September – The speaker will be Charles Lutz who has a program to help disadvantaged young people through surfing.
From the Floor: Lion Jack asked Lion Susie Sumnick to reach out to the elementary schools and see if there is a need for extra school supplies. We could bring items to meetings and have them delivered throughout the school year.
Adjournment: 7:35pm
*Sunday, August 6th – Red Cross Blood Drive – VBCC 11-4 pm
*Thurs., August 10th – Jump Start – Corporate Landing Middle School 9-3 pm
*Saturday, August 12th – Back to School Care Fair – Convention Center 10-2 pm
*Monday, August 14th – deadline to deliver Adopt a Student bookbags to Image Services, 464 Investors Place Ste 106, VB
*Wednesday, August 16th – Regular Membership Meeting – Bay Lake Retirement Center
*Thurs. August 24th – Lions Medical EyeBank Dinner – Norfolk Yacht Club
July 18, 2023 -The regular meeting of the Thalia Lions Club of Virginia Beach, VA, was called to order on July 19, 2023, by Lion President Jack Wagner at 7:00 pm at the Bay Lake Retirement Center, 4225 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA, with those members in attendance as shown on the Attendance Record and Guest Register. Transcribed below is what happened at the meeting.
ATTENDANCE: 3 Guests, 21 Members
Program: As the meal was being served, Lion President Jack asked the presenters of the program if they would like to start. Sara Wood, Regional Fitness Director of the YMCA and Angie Gillen, Personal Training Coordinator of the Hilltop Family YMCA, described the origin and purpose of the Live Strong program. Live Strong is a program to improve the health and well-being of cancer survivors. It began 22 years ago sponsored by the American Cancer Society and has been run by the YMCA for the past 5 years. It is a 12-week program available without charge to any cancer survivor. The program is a twice-a-week meeting of a 90 min. session of strength and fitness exercises. An initial evaluation of flexibility, balance and strength is made, along with a 6 minutes simple walking test. They described several stories of remarkable progress in fitness made even after years of being cured of cancer. The exercise group also indirectly offers socialization and support in a welcoming community that often builds friendships. Questions after their presentation revealed that the cancer qualifying for the free program could have been any kind at any time in the past. Those undergoing active treatment are not eligible. Brochures and contact information were distributed.
Business Meeting:
Budget Committee Report: A proposed budget from the Board of Directors was distributed for review and comment. Lion John Watters described the main difference from last fiscal year is the loss of permission to use the BJ’s shopping center for White Cane collections and broom sales. Discussion centered on where we might do a White Cane. Lion President Jack has talked with several businesses, Sam’s Club, Walmart, etc. and there is no place to collect with permission at this time. Locations for White Cane collections are yet to be determined. Budget approval was moved and seconded and passed unanimously.
Treasurer’s Report: Lion Vickie Kennedy noted in the agenda that those paying dues or other fees with Venmo will be charged the $2.00 fee per payment. Zelle payments have no fee.
Secretary’s Report: Lion John Watters, standing in for the postop Lion Nancy Watters. Please ask friends, family and all connections and groups to vote for our club in the WTKR Everyday Hero annual selection of the best of the year. This was a monthly presentation and our club (via Lion Nancy) won $300. Now an open vote of the community will choose the best of the 12 monthly winners for an additional $2,500 award! Please vote – just go to wtkr.com/everyday hero and select #4 as the choice. One vote per email address is permitted.
Service Reports: Lion Nancy Nelson solicited members to sign-up for two important projects:
*Jump Start – Thursday, Aug. 10th at Corporate Landing Middle School 9 - 5, and the
*Back to School Care Fair – Saturday, August 12th at the Convention Center 10 – 2 Lion John Watters described each project. They are important as many children are screened for vision problems.
*VBCC Red Cross Blood Drive, Aug. 6th, 11-4 Lion Nancy Nelson is also in charge of signing people up for this important project held by Thalia Lions in conjunction with the Virginia Beach Christian Church, 2225 Rose Hall Drive, Virginia Beach, 23454 (Corner of Rose Hall Dr and Gr. Neck Rd) You may schedule an appointment time to donate by going to redcrossblood.org.
*Lion PCC J. Stanley Furman announced that the SEVLCF approved our request for a $10,000 grant for the Virginia Beach City Schools Beach Bag Project. Va. Beach Clubs will also be given the opportunity to apply for $500 food project grant this year. Last year we presented the $500 to Thalia United Methodist Church Food Pantry and combined it with a Lions Bag Hunger Project.
*Lion Pres Jack Wagner described a program he has started that provides needed brooms to three firehouses and rescue squads in our area. They will be offered every 3 months. This program was well-received by those present.
Upcoming Programs: (Lions Nancy Nelson & Bill Austin) - August 16th – New Member Orientation, by Lion Mack Stevens, actually a refresher course for all Lions and vitally important for all of our new members. This will educate all on who – why – what Lions are.
From the floor: Not surprisingly, our president, Lion Jack has peanuts to sell.
Adjournment at 8:15
Respectfully submitted, Lion John Watters, Acting Secretary for the Evening Thalia Lions Club
Upcoming Events:
Wednesday, Aug 2nd – BOD meeting Zoom 7pm
Sunday, Aug 6th Red Cross Blood Drive, VBCC, 2225 Rose Hall Dr, 11-4
Thursday, Aug 10th, Jump Start – Corporate Landing Middle School 9 - 5
Saturday, Aug 12th, Back to School Care Fair, Convention Center 10 - 2
Wednesday, Aug 16th, Thalia Lions Member Mtg, Bay Lake Retirement Center, 4224 Shore Dr
Wednesday, Sep 6th, Zoom BOD meeting 7pm
July 5th 2023- Board Meeting, 7 p.m via Join Zoom Meeting
Lion President Jack Wagner: Call to Order – 7:00 pm
Lion Jack reported on a chance encounter with former member Lion Steve Rosnov, who is now a member of Kempsville Lions. Lion Steve says that Kempsville Club is doing well. Lion Debra Laughlin, also a former Thalia member is traveling while she is still able to see. Their favorite spot is in Key West. Lion Debra has retinitis pigmentosa which will eventually take her sight. Lion Jack invited Lion Steve to one of our meetings at our new venue. Lion Jack also reported that he has communicated with Lio n Jim Healy who will turn 97 at the end of the year. Lion Jim is doing as well as to be expected.
Budget Committee report - Lion Jack Wagner (committee members -Lion John Watters, Rhonda Skaggs, Nancy Nelson) The committee is not yet ready to present the proposed budget but will work diligently to have the budget ready soon. Though we thought it was to be ready to present to the membership at the meeting on the 19th, we realized that the by-laws only require a Board of Directors vote to approve the budget.
Audit Committee report – Lion Jack Wagner (Committee members – Lions Jack, Vickie, Stanley) Lion Stanley set the date to meet with Lion Vickie at RMHC for Tues July 11th at 5pm.
Bayside Lions Club Merger Proposal-Lion Stanley Furman & Lion John Watters, committee. Lion Stanley talked with Lion Ed from Bayside and told him that we were not interested in making any type of merger that would require Thalia to change its name or give up the charter. His response was that Bayside was the older club and they also did not wish to change their name but they are willing to discuss issues. Lion Stanley has been asked to check with LCI to what the charter process would be if we were to merge.
Treasurer’s Report - Lion Vickie Kennedy
Payments by Venmo - Lion Vickie Kennedy informed the BOD that when Venmo is used as a payment method there is a $1.90 plus .10 charge for the service. She moved that we add a $2.00 service charge to any Venmo uses.
Lion Nancy Watters seconded and the Board approved the motion. That charge does not apply to Zelle use because it incurs no extra charge.
Secretary’s Report -Lion Nancy WattersC WTKR Everyday Hero Humanitarian Award ($2,500)-Lion Nancy and the Thalia Lions Club are in the running for the WTKR Humanitarian Award to be presented on August 10th at the WTKR studios. Thalia is one of the 12 contestants. For us to win, we must get votes on the WTKR website. So, all members are asked to please go to WTKR, Everyday Hero Humanitarian Award VOTE! Scroll down past all the contestant videos until you reach the bottom of the list. We are #4 Lions Club. Cast your vote. The award is for a $2,500 donation that would be made to the favorite charity. In our case, it would go to the Lions Charity Foundation of Southeastern Virginia for use by Thalia Lions Club.
Please vote and forward the link to all your friends and family. Voting ends on July 31 st.
Service Reports - Lion Nancy Watters
VBCC Blood Drive, Aug. 6th, 11-4 pm.–Lion Nancy Nelson reported that 8 people are registered to give blood. Lion Nancy will distribute posters to all the churches in the Great Neck corridor. It is posted on Facebook, on Nextdoor Neighborhood and on our website. There will be a work schedule at the meeting for sign up. We will need lots of volunteers. Lion Jack will have peanuts and brooms to sell at the Blood Drive also.
Jump Start–Thursday, August 10th - Corporate Landing Middle School 9-5 pm – We will need lots of volunteers for this project. The sc hool system busses children from all over Hampton Roads to this project to receive free services and supplies. We will do vision screenings and some giveaway items. Because Lion Nancy and John may not be available that day because of the WTKR conflict, lots of volunteers will be needed for set up, managing the table and doing SPOT screenings. Sign up sheet will be at the meeting on the 19th.
Back to School Care Fair - Saturday, August 12th – Convention Center 10-2pm Please put both those dates on your calendar because we will need lots of volunteers again! This event is only 2 days after Jump Start but again it requires display set up, giveaways and screening with the SPOT. Sign up sheet will be at the meeting on the 19th.
White Cane – Lion Jack Wagner update on locations – Sam’s Club does allow solicitations but stopped during the pandemic. However, they may restart. Lion Jack will follow up. Lion Jack also reported that the Hearing Aid Dept at Sam’s is interested in working with us. Our club gets hearing aids through the LCFSV for $100 copay. But there may be ways Sam’s can assist even if it is just to collect hearing aids. Lion Stanley will follow up with Sam’s.
Fundraisers- Lion Jack Wagner
Broom/Peanut Sale – On the 4th, Lion Jack went to the Old Donation Fire dept and the Plaza Rescue Squad in the Thalia area and gave them whisk brooms for each ambulance, brooms for sweeping up and push brooms for accident scenes. He also gave brooms to Bay Lake and to Paul’s Auto. Li on Jack suggested that we let other clubs know, through DG Homer, that these services could use brooms and possibly other clubs could provide that need in their own club’s area of service. Lion Stanley suggested that we could report this as a service project not only for the recipients but also as supporting blind-made industries. Many clubs have found other sources of brooms but we still order from the blind industries.
Programs – Lion Nancy Nelson & Lion Bill Austin
July–Angie Gillian head trainer of YMCA and coordinator of Live Strong
August - Lion Mack Steven New Member Orientation
From the Floor:
*Lion Bob Perrine again commended Lion Nancy Nelson for having Doug Stampler with PiN for speaking at the May meeting.
*Lion Jack stated that Lion Dr.Ferrara was very pleased with the Melvin Jones Award and was planning to hang it in his office.
*Lion Susie asked if it would be appropriate to offer the rescue squads cash. It was pointed out that we make cash donations to Plaza Rescue each year as part of our budget.
*Lion Jack thought we might at some point consider a power washer because they hand wash the vehicles.
Adjournment 7:55 pm
Upcoming Dates:
*Wednesday. August 2, 7pm -BOD meeting via Zoom
*Sunday, August 6th, 11-4pm -Red Cross Blood Drive -VBCC
*Thursday, August 10th, 9-5 pm -Jump Start, Corporate Landing Middle School
*Saturday August 12th, 10-2pm? -Back to School Care Fair, Convention Center
*Wednesday August 16th, 6pm -Membership Meeting, Bay Lake Retirement Center
June 7 2023 - Board Meeting, Wed. - 7 p.m.
Join Zoom Meeting
President Jack Wagner: Call to Order of the first B0D meeting of the 2023-24 Lions Year: 7:40 New Business:
Appointment of Budget committee by President Jack Wagner – Lion John Watters, Lion Nancy Nelson and Lion Rhonda Skaggs.
Appointment of Audit Committee by President Jack Wagner – Lion Stanley Furman, Lion Vickie Kennedy and Lion Jack will meet at Ronald McDonald House.
Reports from these two committees will be presented at the July 1st BoD meeting.
Lion Stanley moved that we do not increase the dues for 2023-24 even though LCI increased the dues. Lion Bill Austin seconded the motion and it was passed.
Adjournments: 7:51
Upcoming Dates:
Wed. June 21th – Installation Night – Bay Lake Retirement Center – 4225 Shore Dr. Va Beach
Wed. July 5th – Zoom Board of Directors meeting
Wed. July 19th – Membership meeting – Bay Lake Retirement Center 6pm
Sunday August 6th – Red Cross Blood Drive – VBCC 11-4pm
Thurs.,August 10th – Jump Start – Corporate Landing Middle School 9-5pm Saturday, August 12th – Back to School Care Fair – Convention Center 10-2pm
2022-2023
Comments
Post a Comment