Freeport Lions Club

2026-05-12T11:15:29.086-05:00

https://photos.app.goo.gl/k4hvS3oETZWkwG838

12th Annual "Cruisin' for a Cause" Car Show photos from May 2, 2026, can be viewed using the above link.

FEBRUARY 24, 2026 CLUB MEETING

2026-03-01T14:12:00.008-06:00

Feb. 24, 2026 - Meeting Minutes - FREEPORT LIONS CLUB

Meeting was held at the Freeport Eagles Club, and was called to order @ 6:00 PM by Club President Jason Carter.

Attendance: Guests: 1 Members: 16

Pledge of Allegiance: led by Lion Dave Marcum

Invocation: given by Lion Terry Anderson

Guests: Jacob Wagner - Veterans Assistance Commission

Communications/Happenings: Happy March Birthday wishes to Lion Dave Marcum 3/23.

We received the following thank you notes/letters from:

Letter and patch from LIF (Lions of IL Foundation) for our $290.00 donation to Children’s Low Vision.
Letter and patch from LIF for our $200.00 donation for Adult Low Vision.
Letter and patch from LIF for our $550.00 donation for Camp Lions Adopt-A-Camper.
Stephenson County 4-H Extension for our $200.00 donation.
Lifeline Coalition for our $100.00 donation.
Voices for our $1,000.00 donation (11/25/25).
LIF patch for our 2024 Sight & Sound Sweepstakes participation.
LIF Certificate of Appreciation for our 2024-2025 Trustee Challenge contributions (both Adult & Children Low Vision)

Reports:

Secretary’s Minutes: Motion to accept the February10th Minutes was made by Dave Snyders, 2nd by Shiloh Bausman, motion carried.
Treasurer's Report: Admin. Acct: $535.08, Activity Acct: $2,995.27 Memorial Acct: $2,637.49; Motion to accept by Dave Snyders, 2nd by Dave Marcum, motion carried.
Membership: Lion Dave Marcum says nothing new to report.
Marketing: Lion Shiloh Bausman says Lion Faith Freeman has nothing new to report.
Car Show: See below.
Vision: Chairman Terry Anderson says Shopko is providing 5 vouchers and we have already used one. A family with three children may need help, club agreed no limit on any one family.

Old / New Business:

A. 12th Annual Lions Car Show May 2 1-5PM:

Chairperson, Lion Shiloh Bausman, held a second meeting 2/3.

The committee agreed on a purple tee-shirt. Her son, Connor, helped with the design. Tee-shirt pricing is $12.00 for sizes S/M/LG/XL, and $15.00 for 2XL.

If you wish to be on the committee and help by calling on sponsors, let Shiloh know.

Flyers like this are available for posting on area bulletin boards.

This year we will have a Platinum level sponsor at $150.00.

B. Northwest Central Zone Meeting: Pres. Jason says meeting in Cedarville on 2/23 was well attended. Each club gave a report on activities from last Fall and for the upcoming Spring. Lions attending: Jason Carter, Kathy Digiovanni, Dave Marcum, Terry Anderson, Dennis Zimmerman, Richard Montgomery, and Joe Serafini.

C. Rockford Ice Hogs Game: for 3/14 7PM: Cost is $25.66 per ticket and must be ordered online. If interested, contact Lion Shiloh Bausman for more information.

D. Lions Service Carnival: 3/21 Lincoln Mall: District Governor Marcia Myers is trying to get 20 to 25 tables so organizations can display what they are about and how they help the community.

E. Cub Food Brat Stand: Lion Shiloh Bausman completed an application and filed for this year. OUR APPLICATION WAS ACCEPTED FOR SEPTEMBER 11-12.

Volunteers, Mark Your Calendars!!

F. LIF Diabetes Awareness Funds Drive: April 17-18: Lion Brian Burke volunteered to chair. He has checked with Cub Foods and locked in April dates. Lion Shiloh says we still have Tootsie Roll Pops left from last year. She will check, verify, and advise Lion Brian.

G. District Convention April: 24-25: Will be at Farm Bureau building in downtown Freeport. Motion by Brian Burke to pay for a full-page ad in convention booklet for $100.00, 2nd by Oscar Morsbach-Untersee, motion carried. Motion by Joe Serafini to purchase a gift card for $25.00 for Silent Auction, 2nd by Nelson Julius, motion carried.

H. Officers for 2026-2027: We are looking for officers for the upcoming year, 7/1/26-6/30/27. We handed out a sheet reflecting positions that are open. Please review and we will discuss it at our next meeting and need to finalize by our March 24 meeting.

I. Lion of the Year: Give your nomination(s) to Lion Joe Serafini who will prepare a ballot for vote at our 3/24 meeting.

J. 90th Year Celebration: Pres. Jason Carter reminded us that our club is celebrating our 90th Year Anniversary (chartered on April 7, 1936). Do we want to have an Anniversary Celebration? Brief discussion was held, please provide your input at our next couple of meetings.

Monetary Requests:

$100.00 Freeport Bunny Trail, April 4, motion by Dave Snyders, 2nd by Shiloh Bausman, motion carried.
$??.00 Hike for Hearing 5/2 at Rock Cut State Park, Rockford Lions seeking donations. Motion by Joe Serafini to table as we sponsor Fish and Fun Day in June and this is also same date as our car show, 2nd by Dennis Zimmerman, motion carried.

Future Guest Speakers Schedule:

March 10: Lion Shiloh Bausman has Freeport Middle School Dance Team
April 14: Lion Richard Montgomery has Amanda Faivre, Stephenson County Senior Resource Center.
May 12 – Lion Jason Carter – Friends Forever Humane Society
June 9 – New Member Orientation/refresher for all Lions

Tail Twister and 50/50 Drawing: Waived tonight in order Lions could get home early to watch President’s State of the Union presentation. We did pass a bucket and collected $38.00 for our Admin. Account. Thank you for your generosity.

Program:

Lion Oscar Morsbach-Untersee introduced Jacob Wagner,

Veterans’ Assistance Commission of Stephenson County, 10 N. Galena Avenue. Jacob was a Marine for 8 years, 1 month, and 1 day. He worked for Sheriff’s office in AZ then moved to IL and worked for the Winnebago Sheriff’s office and Colony Brands before taking the lead at VAC. They advocate with integrity and commitment, in addition to supporting and making a difference, for the Veterans of Stephenson County who served our country with honor. VAC was established in 2005 and provides free vans to transport veterans to Rockford IL and/or Madison WI. VAC has a "Footlocker" program that accepts donations of food, clothing, and personal hygiene products. They can also help those in need of financial assistance for food, shelter, utilities, and personal needs. If you apply for assistance, you will need a copy of Form DD214, military discharge paperwork. Thanks, Jacob, for an informative program.

"LIONS" - Liberty, Intelligence, and Our Nation's Safety***

Adjourned – 7:10 Secretary Joe Serafini

NOTEABLE HAPPY DAY QUOTES:

"Never regret anything that made you smile."~ Mark Twain
"Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be."~ Abraham Lincoln
"Life is 10% what happens to you, 90% how you react to it." ~ Charles R. Swindoll
"The only thing that will make you happy is being happy with who you are." ~ Goldie Hawn
"Happiness is letting go of what you think your life is supposed to look like." ~ Unknown
"Create the highest, grandest vision possible for your life, because you become what you believe."~ Oprah Winfrey

Up-Coming Dates (mark your calendar):

Mar. 10 - 6:00PM Regular Meeting - Eagle's Club
Mar. 14 – Rockford Ice Hogs Hockey Game
Mar. 21 – Service Carnival @ Lincoln Mall, Freeport
Mar. 24 - 6:00PM Board/Regular Meeting – Eagle’s Club
Apr. 7 - 6:00PM Regular Meeting - Eagle's Club
April 24-25 – Dist. 1 D Convention @ Farm Bureau, Freeport
May 2 - 12th Annual Freeport Lions Car Show

Think Membership – ASK 1

Visit our club!

Become a Lion!

CLUB MEETING JANUARY 27, 2026

2026-02-03T14:34:00.000-06:00

Jan. 27, 2026 - Newsletter / Meeting Minutes - FREEPORT LIONS CLUB

Meeting called to order @ 6:00 PM @ Eagle’s Club by President Jason Carter

Attendance: Guests: 1 Members: 16

Pledge of Allegiance: led by Lion Kathy Digiovanni

Invocation: given by Lion Terry Anderson

Guest(s): Rob Boyer – Freeport City Manager

Program: Rob Boyer, Freeport City Manager.

Club President, Jason Carter, introduced. Mr. Boyer who said he came to Freeport in 2020, He likes the town and his job. Previously, he was a CEO in the Auto Industry. In 2021, the city started doing their own street paving which has netted more improved streets for less money. The Adams Street project was completed making entry into the city from the southeast much safer So far, twenty-five miles of streets have been completed. Some up-coming street projects are: South Street, Clark Street, South Demeter Street, Dewey Street, and Stewart Avenue.

Other future projects noted:

· The old Holiday Inn on South Street should be demolished in 30-60 days!

· The city received $85 Million in outside funding to remove all lead pipes, and that will be completed this year.

· Water Well #12 on the South end of Krape Park is completed, and will provide support for that end of town, including Walmart, Menards, and other southside businesses. There will be no water tower located there.

· Please go to www.cityoffreeport.org for other projects/planning.

· REMEMBER, THE SAFETY of City Workers is of utmost importance – please give them space when approaching or entering any construction zone.

Thanks, President Jason, for arranging a highly informative program and guest speaker.

Communications/Happenings: Happy February Birthday wishes to Lion Sean McDanel 2/18.

We received a thank you card from Lions of IL Foundation (LIF), for participating in Annual Candy Day Campaign.

Reports:

Secretary’s Jan. 13 notes: Note corrections for spelling of guest Barbara Vines (not Fines) and convention dates. Motion by Roland Caruso to accept with corrections, 2^nd by Shiloh Bausman, motion carried.

Treasurer: Admin. Acct: $530.71 Activity Acct: $5,586.45 Memorial Acct: $2,637.41

Motion to accept by Shiloh Bausman, 2^nd Roland Caruso, motion carried.

Membership: Lion Shiloh says they are working on a meeting for Leo’s Club. Lion Jalen Dunbar assisting. New Member Orientation and refresher for all Lions set for June 9^th meeting.

Marketing: Lion Faith Freeman has developed a calendar. Lions Faith and Shiloh have a new website: FreeportILLions.org

Lion Shiloh showed us the site and while it is under construction, it will be easy to use and help others who may have an interest in joining our club. Lion Faith also asks for head shot photos so she can place them on the new website. Nice job – more to follow.

Car Show: Chairman Shiloh held a meeting on Jan. 20 with a follow-up meeting set for 2/3 5PM at Eilert’s. If you wish to be on committee, try to be there. She did note that this year we will have a Platinum level sponsor at $150.00. Flyers are available.

Scholarship: Chairman Terry Anderson confirmed applications have been placed.

Vision 2025: Chairman Terry Anderson’s report shows we had thirty-seven requests and purchased twenty-three pair of eyeglasses/exams with a cost of $3,470.69 which includes ten vouchers provided by Shopko Optical. Nice work Terry!

Mints 2025: Chairman Terry Anderson’s report showed deposits of $3,074.42, expenses of $1,380.00 for a net profit of $1,694.42. He thanked Lions Zimmerman and Serafini for running the routes for him this year. The mints help us offset cost of our eyeglass program. Currently, we have trays in seventy locations.

Old / New Business:

A. Sight & Sound Sweepstakes Tickets for LIF: Lion Joe Serafini asks that you turn in your money and books by Feb. 10 meeting. If we get them mailed to LIF before March 1, we will be eligible for early bird drawings, March 4, April 1, and May 6. The main drawing is May 17, 2026.

B. 12th Annual Lions Car Show May 2 1-5PM: Contract with 3D Sound was signed by Chair Lion Shiloh Bausman and she has printed three hundred flyers (black and white) for 3D to hand out at their early shows. Plan is to have a second committee meeting Feb. 3 – 5:00PM at Eilert’s. If you want to be on the committee, be there and if you do but cannot make it, let Lion Shiloh know of your wishes.

C. NW Central Zone Meeting 2/23 6PM: The next Zone Meeting will be in Cedarville, hosted by Orangeville Lions. We will need a final head count by 2/10 meeting. A preliminary head count revealed eight who may attend: Shiloh Bausman, Brian Burke, Dave Marcum, Terry Anderson, Dennis Zimmerman, Joe Serafini, Jason Carter, and Kathy Digiovanni.

D. Rockford Ice Hogs Game for 3/14: Dist. 1 D just announced this fundraiser. If interested, contact Lion Shiloh Bausman for more information.

E. Lions Service Carnival 3/21 Lincoln Mall: More to follow on this event.

F. Guest Speaker Schedule:

· February 10: Lion Oscar Morsbach-Untersee has Jacob Wagner, Stephenson County VAC

· March 10: Lion Shiloh Bausman has Freeport Middle School Dance Team

· April 14: Lion Richard Montgomery has Amanda Faivre, Stephenson County Senior Resource Center.

· May 12 – open

· June 9 – New Member Orientation/refresher for all Lions

· Monetary Requests: All motions passed were unanimous unless otherwise noted.

· $550.00 Camp Lions-Adopt a Camper, motion by Roland Caruso, 2^nd by Shiloh Bausman

· $290.00 LIF Children Low Vision, motion by Joe Serafini, 2^nd by Dennis Zimmerman

· $200.00 LIF Adult Low Vision, motion by Shiloh Bausman, 2^nd by Roland Caruso

· $100.00 Lifeline Coalition (Pregnancy Center), motion by Dave Snyders, 2^nd by Aaron Davis

· $200.00 Stephenson County 4-H Extension, motion by Dave Snyders, 2^nd by Brian Burke

· $200.00 RAMP, motion by Shiloh Bausman, 2^nd Roland Caruso

· $200.00 Malcolm Eaton Enterprises, motion by Brian Burke, 2^nd by Dave Snyders

· $250.00 Stephenson County Animal Control, motion by Dave Snyders, 2^nd by Shiloh Bausman

· $100.00 New Club Website, motion by Joe Serafini, 2^nd by Aaron Davis

· $100.00 Club to purchase ten Sight and Sound books, motion by Joe Serafini, 2^nd by Dennis Zimmerman

Tail Twister:

Due to length of meeting, we waived the Tail Twister.

50/50 Drawing:

Due to length of meeting, we waived the drawing but passed the bucket and collected $37.00 for our Admin. Account. Thank you for your generosity!

"LIONS" - Liberty, Intelligence, and Our Nation's Safety***

Adjourned – 7:35 Secretary Joe Serafini

NOTEABLE VALENTINE DAY QUOTES:

"A kiss makes the heart young again and wipes out the years."~ Rupert Brooke
"We are most alive when we’re in love."~ John Updike
"When you love someone all your saved up wishes start coming out."~ Elizabeth Bowen
"If you have only one smile in you, give it to the people you love." ~ Maya Angelou
"All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt." ~ Charles M. Schultz
"Everything’s coming up roses – for me." ~ Ethel Merman

Up-Coming Date (mark your calendar):

Feb. 10 - 6:00PM Regular Meeting - Eagle's Club

Feb. 23 – NW Central Zone Meeting – 6:00PM - Cedarville

Feb. 24 - 6:00PM Board/Regular Meeting – Eagle’s Club

Mar. 10 - 6:00PM Regular Meeting - Eagle's Club

Mar. 14 – Rockford Ice Hogs Hockey Game

Mar. 21 – Service Carnival @ Lincoln Mall, Freeport

Mar. 24- 6:00PM Board/Regular Meeting – Eagle’s Club

April 24-25 – Dist. 1 D Convention @ Farm Bureau, Freeport

May 2 - 12th Annual Freeport Lions Car Show

Think Membership – ASK 1 - to visit our club and consider becoming a Lion!

MEETING MINUTES - JANUARY 13, 2026

2026-01-19T21:05:00.000-06:00

Jan. 13, 2026 - Newsletter / Meeting Minutes - FREEPORT LIONS CLUB

Meeting called to order @ 6:00 PM @ Eagle’s Club by Pres. Jason Carter

Attendance: Guests: 2 Members: 17 Pledge of Allegiance: led by Lion Richard Montgomery Invocation: given by Lion Joe Serafini

Guests: (1) Nicole Haas, Greater Freeport Partnership (2) Barbara Fines

Communications/Happenings: Happy January Birthday wishes to Lion Steve Kryder on 1/31.

Welcome to NEW MEMBER JALEN DUNBAR as of Jan. 1, 2026. His sponsor is Lion Shiloh Bausman.👍👍

Guest Barbara Fines, invited by Pres. Jason Carter, joined our meeting to see what we are all about. We hope she enjoyed the meeting and considers joining our club and Lions International.

Awards from Lions International presented by Pres. Jason Carter to:

Lion Norm Truessel received a 10 Year pin and letter.
Lion Brian Burke received a 15 Year pin and letter.
Lion Terry Anderson received a 40 Year pin and letter.
Lion Jeff Cowman received a 10 Year pin and letter.
Congratulations to these Lions for their dedication to Freeport Lions and Lions International.

Thank you notes were received from:

FACC for our $500.00 donation.
Freeport Community School Fund for our $100.00 donation.
Salvation Army for our $500.00 donation.
Freeport Fire Dept. for our $225.00 donation.
Sue Hutmacher for the Roses we sent on Rose Day to honor Lion Gary who died recently..

Secretary’s Reports

November and December reports motioned by Lion Shiloh Bausman to accept, seconded by Lion Oscar Morsbach-Untersee. MC

Old / New Business:

A. Salvation Army Bell Ringing: Lion Shiloh Bausman thanked everyone for their time. See Dec. notes for list of Lions.

B. All Service Club Luncheon: Was enjoyable lunch and a terrific way to end the year for all clubs.

C. Club Christmas Party: We all felt it was a success and special thanks to Lion Kathy Digiovanni for entertaining us with songs and making extra effort to decorate. Thanks to Lion Shiloh Bausman for lighted bottles for ladies to take home.

D. Sight & Sound Sweepstakes Tickets for LIF: The books are $10.00 for three tickets or if sold individually, they are $4.00 each/$12.00 a ticket/book. The drawing will be at the state convention in May. 1^st prize $5,000.00; 2^nd-6^th is $1,000.00; 7^th-16^th is $500.00; 17^th-26^th is $250.00. Sellers prizes up to $4,800.00. See Lion Joe Serafini to get yours. There are early bird drawings in March, April, May, so we need to sell our 40 books and return to LIF to be eligible for the early bird drawings.

E. Leos Lion Club Update: Lions Shiloh Bausman and Faith Freeman say it is still a work in progress – more to follow.

F. 12th Annual Lions Car Show May 2 1-5PM: Contract with 3D Sound has been signed by Chair Lion Shiloh Bausman and she has printed 300 flyers (black and white) for 3D to hand out at their early shows. Plan is to have an early committee meeting Jan. 20 – 5:00PM at Eilert’s. If you want to be on the committee, be there and if you do but cannot make it, let Lion Shiloh know of your wishes.

G. Freeport Lions 2026-2027 $1,000.00 Scholarship Applications: If you know of a graduating high school senior who plans to attend HCC this fall, let them know of this opportunity as the deadline for submission is March 20. Lion Shiloh Bausman will get the application on our Facebook and other websites including the media from each school. Lion Terry Anderson is chair and will be looking for volunteers to review applications and make a final selection. Lions Dunbar and Serafini will deliver hard copies to FHS, HCC, and Lion Shiloh will deliver to FHS primary office and Alternative School office.

H. Rockford Ice Hogs Game for 3/14: Dist. 1 D just announced this fundraiser, Lion Shiloh Bausman will provide more information soon.

I. Adopt-A-Street Clean-up 2026: We will schedule pick-ups for April, July & September. We cover Galena Street from Rte. 26/West Street (Walgreen’s) to Crestwood St. (McDonald's). Look for our Club Street Sign!!! More to follow.

J. Guest Speaker Schedule:

February 10: Lion Oscar Morsbach-Untersee has Jacob Wagner, Stephenson County VAC
March 10: Lion Shiloh Bausman has Freeport Middle School Dance Team
April 14: Lion Richard Montgomery has Amanda Faivre, Stephenson County Senior Resource Center.
May 12 – open
June 9 – open

Tail Twister Fundraiser: Lion Roland Caruso gave us the state and asked if we could identify their football team. Example: CO – Broncos, NY – Jets, OH - Bengals and Browns, AZ - Cardinals. Thank you Lion Roland and you raised $16.00 for our Admin. Account.

50/50 Fundraiser Drawing: Lion Joe Serafini conducted & $14.00 winner was Lion Oscar Morsbach-Untersee who donated his winnings back to the club. Thank you to Lion’s Oscar and Joe as you added $28.00, to our Admin. Account.

Program: Pres. Jason Carter introduced Nicole Haas, Marketing and Tourism Director for Greater Freeport Partnership. The GFP was founded in 2018 and replaced the Stephenson County Visitors Center and Freeport Chamber of Commerce. They are not part of the City of Freeport and half of their budget comes from members dues, one-fourth from Stephenson County, and ¼ from City of Freeport Hotel/Motel tax. They host Rise and Shine events which are hosted by different members to learn more about them and what they have to offer and are open to all members to attend. They help organize several events: Music on Chicago June, July, and Aug.; Art Walk; Pretzel Fest; Wine Fest; Cruise Night; and will have their annual dinner Feb. 5 at Masonic Temple to recognize those who have gone above and beyond. Freeport Lions Club just joined, and feel it will help advertise our club and events. Thanks Pres. Jason for a highly informative program

"LIONS" - Liberty, Intelligence, and Our Nation's Safety***

Meeting Adjourned – 7:15 Secretary Joe Serafini

NOTEABLE NEW YEAR QUOTES:

"And we welcome the new year. Full of things that have never been."~ Rainer Maria Rilke

"Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow."~ Albert Einstein

"I close my eyes to old ends. And open my heart to new beginnings."~ Nick Frederickson

"You are never too old to set another goal or dream a new dream." ~ C.S. Lewis

"Focus on the journey, not the destination. Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it." ~ Greg Anderson

"The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot." ~ Michael Altshuler

Up-Coming Date (mark your calendar):
Jan. 27 - 6:00PM Board/Regular Meeting – Eagle’s Club
Feb. 10 - 6:00PM Regular Meeting - Eagle's Club
Feb. 24 - 6:00PM Board/Regular Meeting – Eagle’s Club
Mar. 10 - 6:00PM Regular Meeting - Eagle's Club
Mar. 14 – Rockford Ice Hogs Hockey Game
Mar. 24- 6:00PM Board/Regular Meeting – Eagle’s Club
April 4-5 – Dist. 1 D Convention, Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, Rockford

May 2 - 11^th Annual Freeport Lions Car Show

Think Membership – "ASK 1" - to visit our club and consider becoming a Lion!

2026 CAR SHOW BEING PLANNED

2026-01-19T20:30:00.001-06:00

German Valley Lions Drive-thru Fundraiser

2022-09-28T09:39:00.001-05:00

German Valley Lions is hosting a Drive-thru Fundraiser on Saturday, October 8, 2022. Proceeds will be donated to AL & Bonnie Bawinkle.

Tickets are available to purchase now through October 1. (See attached flier). Questions and ticket orders can be directed to Beth Watter (815) 362-3291.

8th Annual Cruisin' For A Cause Car Show

2022-05-22T12:37:00.001-05:00

We hosted our 8th Annual Cruisin' For A Cause Car Show on May 7, 2022. The sun was shining bright all day long. There was hardly a cloud in sight. The weather was absolutely beautiful, which helped to make this year's event a huge success. Leo the Lion even made a new friend this year named Uni the Cow!

Hello 2022!!

2022-01-10T19:52:00.003-06:00

Just a friendly reminder that we will be hosting our regular monthly meeting tomorrow evening at Freeport Eagle's Club. Taco dinner/social hour will be from 5:00 - 6:00 pm. Meeting will begin promptly at 6:00 pm. Our guest speakers are Captains Lisa & Tim Thorson from Freeport Salvation Army. We will see you then! (Don't forget your mask!)

Freeport Salvation Army

2021-11-09T14:33:00.007-06:00

Freeport Lions Club donated and presented a check to the Freeport Salvation Army this morning. Pictured are Lion Terry Anderson, Lion Paul Rampenthal, Captain Lisa Thorson and Captain Tim Thorson. (Lion Shiloh Bausman not pictured but present)

Thank you Freeport Salvation Army for all you do to help and support our community. #WeServe #LionsClub

Annual Rose Day Sales have begun!

2021-09-16T14:04:00.002-05:00

We are excited to announce that we have begun sales for our ANNUAL Freeport Lions Club Rose Day. You can buy that special someone one dozen roses for $18. We will deliver them for you on October 30, 2021.

The Freeport Lions Club sincerely appreciates your purchase of these outstanding value as it helps in our sight and hearing activities. We furnish eyeglasses for school children and adults, free diabetic retinopathy testing, special aids for blind and visually impaired persons, free hearing screenings, and more. We also contribute to Center For Sight and Hearing, Leader Dog School, Salvation Army, RAMP, Highland Scholarship, American Diabetes Association, VOICES and more!

It's meeting time again!

2021-09-11T17:33:00.001-05:00

We look forward to seeing everyone this Tuesday, September 14 at 6:00PM at the Freeport Eagle's Club!!

Santo Amodeo from Sun Power Solar will be our guest speaker at our next meeting. We are excited to have him join us and share with us some insight into where we are going as individuals and a country with Solar.

Thank you Countryside Counseling!!

2021-08-19T11:30:00.001-05:00

On August 10, 2021, Freeport Lions welcomed guest speakers, Jill Cummins and Colette Binger from Countryside Counseling Services at our meeting. They shared their personal and professional experiences with all of us. They are helping those who are struggling with mental health issues. Thanks for all you do in supporting our police, firefighters, children, those struggling with divorce and advocating for our Veterans.

Let's meet!

2021-08-10T15:26:00.002-05:00

Just a friendly reminder that we will be meeting TONIGHT at the Eagle's Club in Freeport, IL. Our meeting will begin promptly at 6:00 PM. Masks are optional for those who are fully vaccinated. Dinner will not be provided. HOWEVER, you may opt in to the taco/nacho dinner that is being cooked and prepared by the Eagle's Club.

Freeport Lions Club Vision Program

2021-08-05T10:02:00.000-05:00

The Freeport Lions Club serves the Freeport community in a variety of activities and programs. One major and key program is providing support for vision services especially in school age children. If financial assistance is needed to provide glasses for your child, please contact Terry Anderson at 815-235-0834.

Freeport Lions Clean Up #2

2021-07-28T17:49:00.000-05:00

Lions Dave, Joe, Dennis and Rich picked up trash along West Galena Avenue today.

Clean Up Time

2021-07-28T09:01:00.001-05:00

We will be completing our 2nd of three (3) litter pick-up today. We'll meet at 12:00 noon in the Northeast corner of Lincoln Mall Parking lot. While it will be hot, we can complete this in less than 45 minutes if we have enough volunteers see! We hope to see you there.

Monthly Membership meeting

2021-07-26T21:56:00.001-05:00

We will be having our monthly membership meeting this evening. We will be meeting at the Freeport Eagle's Club at 6:00 pm. Masks are optional for anyone who is fully vaccinated.

There will be no meal. However, Freeport Eagle's Club will be hosting their Taco Tuesday dinner for anyone interested in dining before the meeting.

Not currently a member? That's not a problem! Feel free to join us as a guest. Contact us for more information.

2021-07-19T16:17:00.000-05:00

We are excited to announce that we are back to meeting in person. The Freeport Lions Club will be meeting the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at 6:00 pm. Please, join us at the Freeport Eagle's Club for our next meeting. (Masks are requested for anyone who is not fully vaccinated.) We look forward to seeing you soon!

DISTRICT 1D 2017 GOLF OUTING

2017-09-13T21:39:00.003-05:00

Aug. 26, 2017 - Park Hills (East) Golf Course, Freeport IL

A huge “Thank You” goes out to all Lions clubs in District 1D, to all volunteers and to 1D District Governor Steve Boettger and Lion Kelly Boettger who stepped up to support this year's fundraising event.

Special thanks to organizations/individuals who donated items for our bags & prizes: Freeport: Dairy Queen; RAMP/ITAC; Mrs. Mike's; Hulsebus-Gehlsen Chiropractic; School District 145; YMCA; A. O. Elliott in Savanna; The Center for Sight & Hearing in Rockford; and Lions Terry Anderson and Joe Serafini for their organization skills.

13 Teams registered for the best-ball shotgun start scramble. 52 golfers represented clubs from Freeport, Kirkland, Lena, Roscoe, Byron, Shannon, Polo and Rockford Noon Lions.

Big thanks the following 15 Lions Clubs that sponsored $100 each for 15 different holes on the Park Hills East Course: Amboy, Byron, Cedarville, East Dubuque, Freeport, Forreston, German Valley, Kirkland, Leaf River, Lena, Rockford Noon, Rockton, Oregon, Polo and Winnebago.

The following 18 Lions Clubs contributed to the prize fund at $25.00 each: Rockton (2), East Dubuque, Lena, Orangeville, Durand, Cedarville, German Valley, Leaf River, Rockton, Kirkland, Byron, Oregon, Polo, Dixon Evening, Rochelle, Amboy, Mt. Carroll and Freeport.

Each golfer was given a goodie bag which included DG Steve's "koozie" drink holder, items from Leader Dog, bags of Mrs. Mike's Chips and Pretzels made in Freeport, golf tees, a Park Hills logo golf ball, suckers from The Rafter's restaurant in Lena, along with other assorted items.

Brats, hot dogs and liquid refreshments were provided during the outing. Afterward, 60 Lions enjoyed grilling their own ¾ -pound Top Sirloin steak with all the trimmings.

After dinner, the following trophies and prizes were awarded.

·        1st Place (62): Shannon Lions: Aaron Kaney, Dale Kaney, Tim Deets & Brett Woessner
·        2nd Place (66): Freeport Lions: Roland Caruso, Terry Anderson, Andy Skinner & Joe Serafini
·        Last Place (89) : Lena Lions: Jim Brenner, Steve Gerbode, Gerald Curran & Tim Gordon
·        Longest drive (to get to course): DG Ray Parrish - Moline
·        Putting Contest (13"): Ryan Block - Kirkland
·        Ball in trap (drawing): Don Reis - Rockford Noon
·        Ball in water (drawing): Richard Holmes - Lena

·        Longest Putt on green, men: D J Mumma - Byron
·        Longest Putt on green, women: Lynn Meyer
·       Shortest drive, women: 1st VDG Barb Stewart - Orangeville
·        Shortest drive, men: 2nd VDG Richard Delp - Mt. Carroll
·        Longest drive in fairway men >age 70: Roland Caruso - Freeport
·        Longest drive in fairway men <age 70: Tim Deets - Shannon
·        Longest drive in fairway women: Alexa Williams
·        Closest to pin men - Hole #5: Ryan Shetler- Polo
·        Closest to pin women - Hole #10: Rose Rienstra - Stillman Valley
·        50/50/Drawing Winner – Rose Rienstra – Stillman Valley

Lion Joe Serafini and his committee of volunteers want to thank DG Steve and Lion Kelly for allowing Freeport Lions Club to host this year's annual District Golf Outing.

Thank you all Lions and non-Lions volunteers who helped make this year’s District 1D Golf Outing event a huge success:

· Lions Joe Serafini, Gary Hutmacher, Dave Marcum, Paul Rampenthal, Terry Anderson, Liz Moshure, Rebecca Shriver, Duane Smith Andy Skinner and Dennis Zimmerman and Rich Montgomery (photography).
· Cheryl Anderson, Anita Caruso, Nancy Serafini, Mary Jane Zimmerman, the entire Park Hills Golf Course staff.

This District 1D fundraiser netted $2,400.01. Comparison to last 3 years:

·        2017-2018 - DG Steve Boettger - $2,400.01 (host - Freeport)
·        2016-2017 - DG Pamela Graney - $1,759.31 (host - Lena)
·        2015-2016 - DG Gary Meyers -     $2,017.09 (host - Lena)
·        2014-2015 - DG Jim Kloepping -   $1,484.00 (host - Amboy)

All attendees enjoyed the day and look forward to a repeat in 2018.

Follow this link to the photo album: https://goo.gl/photos/kb2Ymg7sLyagSfm57

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https://www.facebook.com/FREEPORTLIONS/

FREEPORT HELPS FLOOD VICTIMS

2017-08-17T09:39:00.000-05:00

CLEANING SUPPLIES DONATED

August 12, 2017 - The Menard’s Store in Freeport IL donated a large cache of drinking water and cleaning supplies for the Freeport Lions Club to distribute to Freeport citizens who suffered flood damage to their homes during devastating July floods.

Club President, Roland Caruso, picked up donated supplies from Menard’s Assistant Store Manager, Michael Chernick. (Photo courtesy of Anita Roland)

Supplies donated included: drinking water, mops, buckets, bleach, vinyl gloves, scrub brushes, paper towels and trash bags.

Freeport Lions Club President, Roland Caruso, and Club Secretary, Joe Serafini, unload supplies from the trunk of Lion Caruso’s car prior to distribution to flood victims. (Photo courtesy of Anita Roland)

Once again, Freeport Lions Club give a BIG ROAR of "THANKS" to all in our community, private citizens and service organizations alike, who have repeatedly come together during stressful times to improve the quality of life for their neighbors.

More information about Freeport Lions Club is available on these web sites:

https://freeportlionclub.blogspot.com

https://facebook.com/pages/Freeport-IL-Lions-Club

FLOOD VICTIMS ASSISTANCE - WATER & BLEACH

2017-07-28T07:14:00.001-05:00

Freeport Lions Donate to Flood Victims

The need for fresh drinking water and household bleach became apparent when the flood waters of the Pecatonica River entered citizens' homes during torrential and successive rainstorms.

Freeport Lions Club members personally donated 11 cases of bottled drinking water, 5 gallon jugs of drinking water, and 11 gallons of bleach at their business meeting on Tuesday, July 25, 2017.

On Wednesday, July 26, 2017, several Lions delivered the donated water and bleach to The Salvation Army headquarters at 106 West Exchange Street.

Salvation Army Captain Lee Brickson, the “Official Vehicle” for distributing to flood victims, accepted water and bleach donations from Freeport Lions Club members, Rich Montgomery, Roland Caruso and Terry Anderson. (Photo thanks to Kelsey Lewis)

Flood victims Kevin Toepfer, Henry Quintero, Donald Griffin, and David Lee help Lions Rich Montgomery and Lion Terry Anderson (in vests) unload water and bleach at Salvation Army headquarters for flood victims. (Photo by Andrea Montgomery)

Member Awards Presented

2017-07-26T18:54:00.003-05:00

Several Freeport Lions Club members were recognized at the July 25, 2017, business dinner meeting by being presented awards.

Lion Liz Moshure received a Centennial Award for sponsoring a new member, Lion Stacie Dixon, during the 100-year anniversary of Lions Club International.

Attendance Awards were presented to Lions Roland Caruso, Richard Montgomery and Dr. Nick Wells for constant participation in Lionism.

Freeport Lions Club President, Roland Caruso, attempted to get all members’ attention at the start of the meeting by wearing his "Get the Big Picture" glasses.

SPONSOR AWARDED CENTENNIAL PIN

2017-07-25T14:28:00.002-05:00

Club Treasurer, Lion Dennis Zimmerman (left), was presented with a gold Centennial Award pin at the May 23, 2017, business dinner meeting for sponsoring new member Lion Sandra Janicke. The award was presented by then-Club President, Lion Brian Burk.

New Club President Starts 2017-2018 Term

2017-07-24T20:53:00.000-05:00

Lion Caruso (right) received Lion of the Year Award
from outgoing Club President Brian Burke

Lion Roland Caruso was voted in as Club President during the 2016-2017 term of then-Club President, Brian Burke. Lion Caruso is known for his dedication to the cause of Lionism and for his sense of humor. He became a Lion in 2011 and has served this club and the Freeport community in a variety of volunteer, public relations and fundraising roles. Lion Caruso received the "Lion of the Year" award at the June 27, 2017, new officer induction ceremony, for his many efforts.

Following are the meeting minutes from Lion Caruso's first meeting as Club President as recorded by Club Secretary, Lion Joe Serafini on July 11, 2017.

Communications: July Happy Birthday wishes go out to Lion's Terry Anderson 7/2; Keith Brown 7/4; Joe Serafini 7/10; Lillian Osran 7/14; Liz Moshure 7/22; Stacie Dixon 7/23 and Jeff Cowman 7/30. We received a thank you from Eversight of IL thanking us for our $300.00,donation.

Old / New Business:

A. Club Scrapbooks: We have two binders and up-dates are continuing. Check them out at our meetings.
B. Dist. 1D Golf Outing 8/26 (Saturday): Lion Joe Serafini says to let him know if you are interested in being on this committee as we will be scheduling a meeting in near future. Lions who have expressed committee interest: Roland Caruso, Dave Marcum, Liz Moshure, Gary Hutmacher, Terry Anderson, Dennis Zimmerman and Joe Serafini - anyone else?
C "Say Cheese" Sale Fundraiser: Chairman Roland Caruso says final report will be presented at 7/25 meeting.
D. Flapjack Fundraiser 9/16: Lion Dave Marcum will have more for us at the date gets closer.
E. RAMP/ITAC: Lion Liz Moshure has flyer for the RAMP/ITAC open house on 8/16 from 11:00-2:30. We will need a couple Lion's to man a table. Further discussion at 7/25 meeting.
F. 6/26 Lena Lions Golf Outing: This is a 9-hole outing - Lion's Anderson, Caruso and Serafini are interested, do we have one more to make a fourth? Let Lion Joe know - email or call 815-275-8737.

Tail Twister: Lion Paul Rampenthal kicked off his 1st meeting as Tail Twister with Baseball All Star Game Questions (All Star Game is tonight and was won by the American League 2-1 in 10 innings). When was the 1st All Star Game? 84 years ago at Comiskey Park, Chicago. Largest crowd was? 72,000 and in Cleveland, OH. Thanks Lion Paul "nice job" and you collected $15.00 for our Admin. Account.

50/50 Drawing: Lion Joe Serafini conducted & $15.00 winner was Lion Brian Burke who used it to buy an extra meal and donated balance to the club - thanks Lion Brian. Thanks Lion Joe as a total of $15.00 ($18.00 total) will be added to our Admin. account.

Program: Lion Joe Serafini introduced Laura McKenzie, Money Management Coordinator, Stephenson County Senior Resource Center.

Laura was born in Libertyville, IL and moved to Dakota where she graduated from Dakota High School. She wanted to be a nurse and ended up as a Nursing Home Administrator. Her son went to college in Hawaii and lived there for about 8 years. She took a sabbatical and moved to Hawaii for a year. She returned to our area and has been at the SRC for about 2 1/2 years. Her role along with about 12 others is to help seniors in writing checks to pay monthly bills, balance a checkbook and reconcile their bank statements. Other services they provide are referrals for benefits or services they may be eligible for, set up monthly income/expenses, develop financial goal, help fill out forms, set up filing system for paid bills and other related correspondence. They can help intervene with creditors. Benefits from their service? Can help in bill paying process for those with loss of sight, tremors, etc. Help eliminate late fees, overdrafts, and give a peace of mind for the clients and their family. They don't touch any cash, debit or credit cards, serve as power of attorney, nor advise as to investments. If you have any interest or know of someone who could use their expertise, be sure to refer them to the SRC at 815/235-9571 or email Laura at: lmckenzie@srcntr.org. Great program and we applaud Laura and her crew for the work they do - President Roland presented Laura with a Lion's pen to thank her for coming to be with us.

"LIONS" - Liberty, Intelligence, and Our Nation's Safety

"EVERSIGHT OF IL" - Who can be an eye donor? Anyone can donate eyes. If the corneal tissue is not transplantable, due to age or medical condition, the donation can, with consent, be considered a gift for research and education.

NOTEABLE QUOTES:

"You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it." ~ Margaret Thatcher
"You must expect great things of yourself before you can do them." ~ Michael Jordan
"There is no traffic jam along the extra mile." ~ Roger Staubach
"Don't let the fear of losing be greater than the excitement of winning." ~ Robert Kiyosaki
"As we look ahead into the next century, leaders will be those who empower others." ~ Bill Gates
"To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream, not only plan, but also believe." ~ Anatole France

Up-Coming Dates (mark your calendar):

Jul. 25 - 5:30PM Board Meeting - Eagle's Club
Jul. 25 - 6:30PM Regular Meeting - Eagle's Club
Jul. 26 - Lena Lions Club Golf Outing - 4PM Wolf Hollow
Aug. 8 - 6:00PM Regular Meeting - Eagle's Club
Aug. 16 - RAMP/ITAC Open House 11-2:00PM
Aug. 22 - 5:30PM Board Meeting - Eagle's Club
Aug. 22 - 6:30PM Regular Meeting - Eagle's Club
Aug. 26 - District 1D Golf Outing
Sept. 16 - Applebee's Flapjack Fundraiser
Oct. 28 - Rose Day

Think Membership – ASK 1 - to visit our club and consider becoming a Lion!

EYEGLASS COLLECTION BOXES - WHERE ARE THEY?

2017-06-23T22:04:00.002-05:00

EYEGLASS COLLECTION BOXES 2017 - WHERE ARE THEY?
Since 1994 the Lions of Illinois Foundation have distributed more than 5,000,000 pairs of graded, used eyeglasses. These recycled eyeglasses are given to people in need, with the help of various medical missionaries, in Central and South America.

Eyeglasses collected in Freeport IL are given to the Lions of Illinois Foundation where they are sorted for recycling to those who cannot afford it. The public can also support this program by donating used eyeglasses at one of the many eyeglass collection box locations in Freeport.

BUSINESS NAME - FREEPORT IL LOCATIONS
Northwest Eye care, 1000 Kiwanis Drive
FHN Burchard Hills Clinic, 1010 Fairway Drive
FHN – Doctor’s Offices, West Stephenson Street
Shopko, 555 West South Street
Midwest Community Bank, 1725 South West Ave
Dr. Hanny Isawi, Ophthalmology, 1045 West Stephenson St.
St. Thomas Aquinas Church 1400 Kiwanis Drive
Lutheran Social Services 1730 South Hance Drive
Senior Resource Center, 206 East Stephenson Street
Tormohlen's Good People Automotive, 1800 South Ihm Blvd
Provena St. Joseph Center, 659 East Jefferson Street
YMCA, 701 West Empire Street
Eagles Club, 1200 West Galena Street

WHAT CAN BE DONATED?
Any type of eyeglasses and visual aid is welcome. The program can use sunglasses, telescopic, magnifying, and prescription eyeglasses. Eyeglass cases cannot be redistributed due to sanitary issues and health guidelines.

WHO RECEIVES THE GLASSES?
When Freeport Lions’ eyeglass collection boxes are full they are combined and dropped off at the Lions of Illinois Foundation office in Sycamore, Illinois. Previously owned eyeglasses are typically sent out of the U.S.

Due to the legal constraints concerning the dispersal of prescriptive devices, and the shipment of certain types of metal, glasses are sorted and restricted frames are sold for recycling. Funds from the sale of restricted metal frames help pay for the program and other humanitarian services of the Lions of Illinois Foundation.