
2010 |
||
| Jan 5 | Jan 19 | Feb 2 |
| Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 6 |
| Apr 20 | May 4 | May 18 |
| Jun 1 | Jun 15 | July 6 |
2009 |
||
| January 6 | January 20 | February 3 |
| February 17 | March 17 | April 7 |
| April 21 | June 2 | June 16 |
| July 7 | July 25 | Aug 4 |
| Aug 18 | Sept 11 | Sept 15 |
| Oct 20 | Nov 3 | Nov 17 |
| Dec 15 | ||
2008 |
||
| February | March | April |
| May | June 13 | June 26 |
| July | August | September |
| October 3 | October 17 | November 14 |
| November 28 | December | |
Highlights from the July 6 Meeting
Bob S. was congratulated for being installed as the Governor of District 31B.
The group discussed at length the rodeo of July 2 and 3. Comments were reported from spectators, who said the rodeo was very entertaining, professional and “clean.” The Board voted to schedule the rodeo for Friday and Saturday, July 1 and 2, 2011. Many suggestions were made about ways to get the word out next year in Alleghany and surrounding towns and communities.
Marion A. thanked the group for their work in the concession stand. She said she was proud of the groups both nights of the rodeo. She praised everyone for working together so well during hot, tiring conditions.
Two requests were submitted by Keith O. for help with the costs of eye exams and further treatment. Both requests were approved.
Everett D. stated that the last two weeks of Rose’s sickness and hospitalization had been rough. He thanked everyone for their telephone calls, visits, prayers and words of encouragement.
Lions are encouraged to attend the kickoff of the White Cane drive. The event will be Sunday, August 1, at the Marion Lions Club. Contact Ellen by e-mail or 372-4801 or Bob S. by e-mail or 372-8956.
PLEASE ATTEND THE MEETING ON TUESDAY...THE SUCCESS OF OUR CLUB DEPENDS ON ALL OF US!
JUST FOR GRINS:
A young Marine officer was severely wounded in the head by a grenade, but the only visible permanent injury was to both of his ears, which were amputated. Since his hearing wasn't impaired he remained in the Marine Corps. Many years later he eventually rose to the rank of major general. He was, however, very sensitive about his appearance.
One day the general was interviewing three Marines, prospects for his headquarters staff. The first was an aviator captain, and it was a great interview. At the end of the interview the general asked him, "Do you notice anything different about me?" The young officer answered, "Why, yes, Sir, I couldn't help but notice that you have no ears." The general got very angry at his lack of tact and threw him out.
The second interview was with a logistics Lieutenant, and he was even better. The general then asked him the same question, "Do you notice anything different about me?" He replied sheepishly, "Well, Sir, you have no ears." The general, now really ticked, threw him out also.
The third interview was with a Marine gunnery sergeant, an infantryman and Staff NCO. He was articulate, looked extremely sharp and seemed to know more than the other two officers combined. The general wanted this guy and went ahead with the same question, "Do you notice anything different about me?" To his surprise, the sergeant said, "Yes, Sir, you wear contact lenses."
The general was very impressed and thought, what an incredibly observant NCO, and he didn't mention my ears. "And how do you know that I wear contacts?" the General asked."Well, Sir," the gunny replied, "it's pretty hard to wear glasses with no ears."
Highlights from the June 15 Meeting
Work on the upcoming rodeo was discussed. The chores of manning the concession stand, the gate, parking and other aspects of the two-night event were discussed.
Ed A. spoke regarding the Christian Motorcycle Association’s bike ride sponsored by Alleghany Connections. Participants will get a free lunch at the Higgins Fairgrounds concession stand when the ride is completed.
The group voted to give the Boy Scouts a $500 donation.
David Hedrick presented a very interesting program about leathercraft. Mr. Hedrick brought several pieces of art, duffel bag, purse and other items he had made. He stated that there are around 600 tools used in this craft.
Members were urged to volunteer at the Vision Van on June 18 at the Alleghany Wellness Center/Alleghany Memorial Hospital’s "Be Happy, Be Healthy Celebration."
Everett D. volunteered to take Joe S.i’s place on the flag detail. Joe has done an excellent job soliciting donations from town merchants and getting the group together to put up and take down flags during the holidays. Thanks, Joe!!!
After discussion, the group agreed that members wishing to resign from the Club would be dropped; no one will be dropped unless a personal contact has been made with them to confirm their decision.
HAVE A SAFE HOLIDAY WEEKEND!
PLEASE ATTEND OUR MEETING ON TUESDAY...THE SUCCESS OF OUR CLUB DEPENDS ON ALL OF US!
JUST FOR GRINS
A preacher said, "Anyone with 'special needs' who wants to be prayed over, please come to the front."
With that, Jethro got in line, and when it was his turn, the Preacher asked, "Jethro, what do you want me to pray about for you?"
Jethro replied, "Preacher, I need you to pray for help with my hearing."
The preacher put one hand on Jethro's ear, placed his other hand on top of Jethro's head, and then prayed.
The whole congregation joined in with great enthusiasm.
After a few minutes, the preacher removed his hands, stood back and asked, "Jethro, how is your hearing now?"
Jethro answered, "I don't know. It's not 'til next week."
Highlights from the June 1 Meeting
Lots of exciting things happened at the June 1 membership, spouse or guest, awards and VIP dinner. If you weren’t there, you missed a good night of fellowship and rewards for hard work.
The first honor awarded was the Jack Stickley Award, which went to Marion A. Allen announced the presentation and talked of Marion’s dedication to the Club and to the work of Lions. Some 94 percent of the money raised goes to the people needing help. He thanked Marion for agreeing to again be the President of our Club.
Phil H. was presented with a plaque for being chosen as the Lion of the Year. Phil is so dedicated to the Lions and their work for the blind/vision impaired, hard of hearing and other areas of need. He never refuses a request to work if he can possibly accept. He quietly goes about his duties, no matter what the task.
Clarence C. presented the President’s Plaque to Allen R. Clarence stated that Allen has done so much for the Club. His excitement for his work is greatly appreciated.
The VIPs were introduced and warmly welcomed by the group. Thanks to Marjorie B., Elva H., Pattie R. and Nelda R. and their family members for attending the dinner and making it a very special evening. Those VIPs and others who could not attend expressed their deep appreciation for the help given to them.
Allen expressed deep appreciation to all the Lions in the Club, lauding their hard work and dedication. I don’t think he missed any of our busy, busy Lions. Successful work includes the flag project, Camp Dogwood ticket sales, willingness to work during any event, keeping a record of activities, the fairgrounds, providing such detailed finance reports, White Cane success, building projects, leadership, longtime work with the Lions Foundations, buying food for the concession stand, and the list goes on. THANK YOU ALL!
Allen announced several upcoming events:
Officers for 2010-2011 were installed.
Special thanks go to Peggy B. who decorated the tables with tablecloths and vases, and to John and Janet G. who provided the beautiful flowers for the vases.
Chaplain Zimmerman was asked to close the meeting with prayer.
We missed Everett and Rose who were absent because of illness; Exton D. who said he would be there if he possibly could; Karin N. who was on vacation; Joe S. who had to be out of town; Cliff P., Chuck B., Phil D., Jim F., Linda I., Kathy and Eldon J., John M. and everyone else who couldn’t attend. YOU ARE MISSED WHEN YOU AREN’T THERE!!
Highlights from the May 18 Meeting
Allen R. announced that June 1 will be an exceptionally important night for our Club. Members should bring their spouse/guest and prospective new Lions. Our visually-impaired friends will be invited as our special guests. Awards will be given out that night, and new officers for 2010-2011 will be installed. Mark your calendar and join your fellow Lions and guests for a delicious dinner and an enjoyable evening!
Everett D.’s list of people purchasing 300 BOOKS of chances for a new car was published in the May 18 issue of The Alleghany News. The funds raised are used to support Camp Dogwood, and Everett broke the record for the most books sold in the State. THANK YOU, EVERETT!
A recommendation was approved to reimburse certain officers up to $150 of their travel costs for the state and district conventions. Attending these meetings provides training for officers and allows local clubs’ participation in voting on issues affecting the district.
The rodeo coming up on July 2 and 3 will offer pony rides for the kids, photos with a Brahma bull, cowboys and cowgirls riding in the parade, and rodeo excitement for all ages on both nights. Ticket sales, program sales, and concessions go to the Club.
Bob S. stated he will encourage all clubs in District 31B to work together for the good of Lionism. We know Bob will be an excellent District Governor.
Carolyn S. was approved as Treasurer of the NC Lions Foundation. Congratulations, Carolyn! We know you will do an excellent job.
Phil H. presented the program for the evening on the need for financial support of the Scouting program. Our district has been asked to raise $12,000. These funds pay for sending Scout leaders for training and $400+ for sending each boy to Camp Raven Knob. Scouts are asked to pay $200.
Gill T. has again organized an event to collect donations of blood. The Bloodmobile was scheduled to set up at the Methodist Church on Monday, May 24. Thank you, Gill, for your continued work on this worthwhile, necessary project!
Remember, several of your club’s officers will attend the State Lions Club Convention May 28-30 in Asheville.
“Negative thinkers are like farmers who plant corn expecting apples. They plant failure in their soil (heart) expecting success.”
-
Balogun M. Adewale of Nigeria
HAVE A SAFE MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND -- REMEMBER THOSE WHO MADE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE FOR OUR COUNTRY!
Highlights from the May 4 Meeting
On Tuesday, May 4, we met to clean the concession stand to begin our new season. There was no business meeting.
We will return to the Lions Club Pavilion on
our regular schedule on May 18:
Board of Directors meeting - 6:00 p.m.
Regular dinner meeting - 6:30 p.m.
Please make every effort to attend our meeting
on Tuesday. We have a lot of activities this
time of year, and we need EVERY member to
help us reach our goals with successful results.
Hope to see you there!
Highlights from the April 20 Meeting
Following an exciting discussion about a way to make a large sum of money, the group voted to invite the Mid Atlantic Professional Rodeo to come to Sparta for shows on Friday, July 2, and Saturday, July 3. This rodeo has performed at the Dixie Classic Fair for 24 years, as well as in many other towns. Gate fees, concessions, charges for pony rides, mechanical bull, and other funds raised will go to the Lions Club. It will be great if the cowboys and cowgirls will participate in the parade on Saturday!
Everett D. was the topic of discussion among the people who helped get Camp Dogwood cleaned up and ready for the first group of visually-impaired campers. Lions working that day were: Marion, Bob, Tom, Lawrence, and Allen. THANK YOU, FOLKS!!!!
Allen asked Bob, Doc, Everett, and Tom to serve on a committee pertaining to covering some of the costs Lions will incur during the State Convention.
Joe S. will be in Florida from November until April. Duane D. volunteered to fill in for Joe on the Flag Detail during his absence. Thanks, Duane!
Bob announced that nine people from Sparta are on his cabinet:
Carolyn S., Secretary; Karin N., Treasurer; Lawrence
M., Sergeant at Arms; Marion A., Celebrate Liberty; Keith
O., Clinical
Eye Research; Allen R., Constitution and Bylaws; Phil D.,
White Cane; Pam H., Leo; and Ellen W., Peace Poster Contest.
Officers will be sworn in on Saturday, July 10, at 4:00 p.m., at the Silver Dollar Music Park in Glade Valley. Entertainment will be provided by Keith O. and the local line dancers.
It is time to sign up for work at the concession for this season. Please contact Allen ASAP to report your availability to participate in this very important project!
LITTER SWEEP: Tom A. announced that clean-up for our Adopt-A-Highway program would be April 28. Ellen saw the following men out in the Twin Oaks area working hard to clean up that stretch of Highway 21: Tom A., Harold H., Phil H., Lawrence M., Randy M., and Bob S. Ken couldn't work at the designated time, so he went at 1 p.m. and picked up 3 bags of trash!! THANK YOU, fellows, for your dedication and hard work. Some of you are, let's say "getting up in years," and some are not in the best of health, but you are still willing to volunteer your time and energies. HATS OFF TO ALL OF YOU! (If I missed listing someone, or if you came after I left, accept my apologies!)
The program for the evening was presented by Sheriff David E. and Deputy Brian P. A task force has been established to eliminate the abuse of prescription drugs in our county. The Sheriff is working with the doctors in town to encourage the issuance of fewer prescriptions for Schedule II narcotics like Oxycontin, oxycodone, and other opioid medications that are highly addictive. The drug problem in Alleghany is worse for medications prescribed by doctors than for illegal drugs. These prescription drugs are being sold illegally and, in some cases, being swapped by family members. May 14 has been set for "Operation Drug Drop-Off" at the Law Enforcement Center. Bring in your outdated medications or those you no longer take, and the officials will have them destroyed.
DON'T FORGET: At our next meeting on Tuesday, May 4, Lions should meet at the fairgrounds at 6:00 p.m. to eat dinner and then clean up the concession stand for the new season. There will be no regular meeting. HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!
"Believing that the Big Bang Theory was completely responsible for creating the entire world is like believing that an explosion in a paper factory would create an entire set of encyclopedias." Norman Geisler
VIRUS WARNING (Read on for a good laugh!!)
You need to know about this e-mail virus. Even the most advanced programs
from Norton or McAfee cannot take care of this one. It appears to affect
those who were born prior to 1960. Symptoms:
Highlights from the April 6 Meeting
Everyone enthusiastically welcomed back L. Roe (Al) B. after his extended illness.
Allen wants to get pictures of the Lions with the VIP they have adopted. Allen believes our club is the first to “adopt” its VIPs and hopes to get pictures and an article in the Lion newsletter.
Seven Lions went to Camp Dogwood on April 13 where they spread mulch, raked, and cleaned the grounds. Anyone who hasn’t been to Camp Dogwood is urged to go – we hear it is an awesome place!
Clarence C. asked for help in cleaning the concession stand for the first event at the fairgrounds. He and Gill are working on streamlining the menu and establishing prices.
Doc E. asked for nominations for officers for the upcoming new year. He asked the group for nominations. The nominations include:
Marion A., President; L. Roe B. 1st VP; Pam H. 2nd VP; David H. 3rd VP; Ellen W. Secretary; Clarence C. Treasurer; Ken B., Asst. Treasurer. Frank H. and Lawrence M. were nominated to fill positions on the Board for the term 2012-2015. Ken B. and Gill T. will co-chair the Membership Committee. Historian is Faye R. The slate of officers will be voted on at the next meeting.
Tom A. made three wooden items to be raffled off, bringing in over $200 to buy Camp Dogwood tickets.
Allen announced that the last meeting in June will be membership night and we'll also be honoring our VIPs.
John G. announced he is running for County Commissioner and asked for support.
Frank H. is running for sheriff and also asked for support.
Lions interested in attending the state convention May 27-30 in Asheville need to get the registration forms turned in quickly. Ask Allen or another officer if you need details about what happens at the convention.
Tail Twister Everett D. provided the program, which highlighted his years of education, service in the Air Force, work experiences with McDonald Douglas on the Skybolt missile cited to be the first ballistic missile to be air-launched from a high-flying bomber. Among other exciting jobs, he was one of five people who transported the second stage of Saturn V to Cape Canaveral. Good job, Everett! The program was educational and very interesting.
The most exciting and shocking news of the evening came when Everett announced that he had sold 300 (that’s three hundred) books of Camp Dogwood tickets. This is possibly the largest number of books sold by any Lion - thank you, Everett, for your hard work and tenacity.
The next meeting is Tuesday, April 20. Please try your best to attend. You are missed when you’re not there!
Highlights from the March 16 Meeting
Don’t forget, folks...our own Tail Twister will provide the program at the April 6 meeting. Please plan on attending because you know it will be interesting!
Allen reported he is working on the homebuilders having a mud sling at the fairgrounds during the Fourth of July weekend to replace concessions lost by cancellation of the horse show. BE THINKING about fund raisers we could have and send your suggestions along to Allen. An auction was one suggestion.
It’s time to register for the Lions State convention to be held May 28, 29 & 30. Please let Ellen know if you plan to attend and be a delegate from our club. The group agreed to place a $300 ad in the convention booklet since our own Bob Sprinkle is running for District Governor.
Lion Everett D. sold nearly 100 books of Camp Dogwood tickets. Way to go, Everett!!!!!!!
Camp Dogwood cleanup day is Tuesday, April 13. Meet at the pavilion and be prepared to leave at 7:00 am SHARP. Also, Governor Perdue has declared the week of April 11 through 17 as Lions week!
Allen reports our club is the first in the state to adopt our VIPs. He wants to get photos of the VIPs and the Lion who adopted them, so get together soon and make a little piece of history. There are still about 5 VIPs who have not been adopted, so call or e-mail Ellen. 372-4801 - widenerea@skbest.com
Joe S. and his helpers got the flag detail letters delivered by hand or in the mail recently. Donations are quickly coming in. Joe and others spend a lot of time on this project, and YOU ARE APPRECIATED!!!!!!
Donna W. and Ann C. from BROC described services available in Alleghany County for all low-income folks of all ages. The commission helps pay electric bills when shut-off is inevitable, weatherize homes and install heating units when necessary. Spread the word to folks you think might qualify.
District Governor Dot N.'s cancer is in remission, but she is still having treatments. She wants to get back home and back to work with the Lions in our district. Continue to remember her in your thoughts and prayers.
Good News – The Division of Services for the Blind will continue their services for the visually impaired, children included.
Continue to keep L. Roe (Al) Boyer in your prayers. He completed the last of his treatments a couple weeks ago and we certainly hope his cancer is in remission!!!
As always, our caterer Robin Greene assisted by her husband provided a delicious meal. The visitors were impressed!
HAPPY SPRING TO ALL!!! Hope to see each member on Tuesday evening.
Highlights from the March 2 Meeting
The Sparta Lions Club did not meet on Tuesday, March 2, 2010.
The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 16. The Board of Directors will meet at 6:00, followed by the regular dinner meeting at 6:30.
Inclement weather has caused the cancellation of several meetings, so please make every effort to be present on Tuesday.
Mark your calendar:
The Tail Twister will present the
program on Tuesday, April 13.
Highlights from the February 2 Meeting
Our February 2 meeting was canceled
due to hazardous driving conditions.
Weather permitting, we will meet this Tuesday, February 16, at our regular time.
If it becomes necessary to cancel once again, members will be contacted.
ENOUGH ALREADY...would the person out there doing the snow dance PLEASE GIVE US A BREAK!!!!!!
Hope to see you at the next meeting... travel safely!
Highlights from the January 19 Meeting
Thank-you cards were read from some of the VIPs who received a Christmas box. The list of VIPs was circulated, and each Lion "adopted" an individual. The Lion will call or visit or send a card on roughly a monthly basis to let the VIPs know they are cared about.
The Board received requests for funding and reiterated the previous action taken that requires groups to make a presentation to the Club members, with decisions to be made at a later meeting.
Gill T. announced a bloodmobile visit on January 25 and requested volunteers.
David E. was the guest speaker. He described amendments to the plans for a park on Sparta Parkway. This will not only be for soccer fields, but will offer a walking trail, picnic area, and play areas. The main access will be off Duncan Street, and the area along Sparta Parkway will be fenced and planted with shrubbery to prevent children from wandering onto the road.
Another $800 in Camp Dogwood tickets was turned in to Tom A. More tickets have been ordered.
Everett D. is working with a group that will erect Lions and
Shriners signs for visitors to see when entering Sparta. One sign
will be at the Little River bridge on US 21 South and another will
be placed at Buffalo Road on NC 18 South.
A letter will be mailed to VIPs in the county, along with information
and an application for attending a week-long session at Camp Dogwood.
Information about the VIP fishing tournament will be published in two
to three weeks and will be sent to Alleghany's VIPs when received.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
Day is done, gone the sun
from the lakes, from the hills, from the sky.
All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.
Highlights from the January 5 Meeting
The January 5th meeting was cancelled.
Please join us on Tuesday, January 19,
for our first meeting of the new year!
Board meeting at 6:00 p.m.
Regular meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Start the year off right and make plans
to attend as many meetings as you
possibly can. The success of our club
depends on each and every member.