HISTORICAL EVENTS OF TOCCOA LIONS - the Toccoa Lions Club

HISTORICAL EVENTS OF TOCCOA LIONS
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1933
During the Depth of the Depression, within the first 100 days of the new administration of
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, while the National Recovery Act was being proposed, an
exploratory meeting of concerned citizens in Toccoa met May 24, 1933, at the Albermarle Hotel to
make a impact in Stephens County.
These business men and community leaders were cooperating with the federal government to
distribute posters, and to prepare labels on their products showing the American Eagle, the letters
"NRA" and the words "We Do Our Part." These enterprising men who had been concerned primarily
with local and state enterprises, welcomed the initiative of the federal government, but considered local
alternatives as they had in the past to meet their problems. They pledged themselves to work together to
grope with problems, and to help others. After serious thought, they proposed banding themselves as a
unit in the sixteen-year-old organization, "lions Clubs International," to serve and to make a difference.
These Toccoa men contacted the Athens lions Club, and the deputy district governor from
Athens Club, William T. Ray. He and Georgia Lions Organizer J. Barnett Napier directed these men to
apply for a club charter, and to select their first slate of officers.
Operating quickly, Toccoa Lions met in a Charter Night program a month later, June 23, 1933,
at Albermarle Hotel. Lions were present from the sponsoring Athens club, and from Cornelia,
Carnesville, and Nelson clubs, to share in forming a new Lions club in Toccoa.
The Lions brought their ladies, and invited members of the Toccoa Kiwanis Club as guests.
Lion T.C. Burton opened the meeting, and introduced Deputy District Governor Bill Ray, who
presided. The speaker at the Charter Night program was Dr. J.C. Rogers, president of Piedmont
College. Deputy District Governor Bill Ray presented the charter of Toccoa Lions Club to the
president, W.J. Andrews, superintendent of Schools of Stephens County.
Lion Ray introduced other officers in the new Toccoa lions Club: N.V. Dyer, principal
Eastanollee High School, first vice-president; J. Thomas Acree, retail grocer, second vice-president and
chairman of the Charter Night Committee; Hoke Smith, furniture manufacturer, third vice- president
and By-Laws Committee Chairman; I. R. McLaughlan, superintendent cotton warehouse, secretary;
Paul Worley, athletic coach, Lion tamer; William L. Green, agricultural teacher, Tail Twister; A.B.
Collier, dry goods merchant, Membership Committee Chairman; and Dr. l.d. Moore, retail druggist.
Finance Committee Chairman

Other charter members of Toccoa Lions Club were R. W. Acree, wholesaler of gasoline and oil;
T.C. Burton, attorney; Frank Cash, baker; Clyde Edwards, fresh meat distributor; W.P. Garner, Clerk of
the Superior Court; Avery F. Garrison, superintendent cotton mill; Dr. W. B. Heller, medical doctor; F.
R. Lovern, Jr., spindle manufacturer; Fred May surveyor; Roy D. McCay, wholesale grocery salesman;
R. Fred Northcutt, mortician; Walton H. Purcell, grocer; D. H. Ramsey, retail hardware; Leonard D.
Steele, dairy producer; FJi.Stowe, Stephens County sheriff; W.A. Whitworth, laundry and dry cleaners;
and Clarence Whitworth, laundry and dry cleaners.
Toccoa Lions played a benefit ball game with Tocdoa Kiwanians, August 10, 1933, to defray
expenses for an exhibit at the Chicago World's Fair. .
The officers of Toccoa Kiwanis Club were invited to a regular Lions meeting in September
1933 to promote the completion of Georgia Highway Route 17.
Charter members registered with Lions International in May 1933 before the charter quota
completion were R. W. Acree, Thomas Acree, William J. Andrews, Thomas C. Burton, Frank C. Cash,
Arthur B. Collier, R.V. Dyer, Clyde Edwards, W.P. Garner, William L. Green, Dr. W.B. Heller, F.R.
Lovern Jr., R.D. McCay, J.R. McLaughn, Dr. L.D. Moore, R. Fred Northcutt (dropped in June 1933),
D.H. Ramsey, Hoke Smith, Leonard D. Steele, F.A. Stowe, W.A. Whitworth, and Paul Worley.
1934
Lion W. J. Andrews served his second year as president of the club. Toccoa Lions Club
recommended the United States Postal Service install outside mailboxes to receive outgoing mail.
Members added in 1934 were R. W. McNeely, D.F. Garrison, F.B. Means, A.L. Campbell, and
Ben F. Check, Jr.
Lions dropped were Thomas C. Burton, Clyde Edwards, W.D. McCay, J.R. McLaughn, and
Hoke Smith
1935
The second president of the club was elected, Lion L.D. Moore, a pharmacist, who served in
1935-36. Toccoa Lions promoted Toccoa Stephens County Recreation activities. .
New members received in 1935 were W.W. McCay, W.O. Hill, Grady Honea, Wingo Brown,
Theodore Sisk, Fred W. Burden, A.P. Farrar, and Walton H. Purcell.

Lions dropped in 1935 were Thomas Acree, Frank C. Cash, F.R. Lovern Jr., and Leonard D.
Steele.
1936
Lion C. Paul Worley was elected third president of Toccoa Lions, and served from 1936 to
1939. As athletic coach at Toccoa High School, he organized a Lions Baseball Team. Lions encouraged
the Civilian Conservation Corps to establish a camp locally (CCC Camp).
Lions received in 1936 were J.R. McLaughn (readmitted, Nathan McGarity, William B. Jones,
J.T. Acree, and John Wansley, Jr. , Lions dropped in 1936 were William J. Andrews, Arthur B. Collier,
W.F. Garner, F.A. Stowe, R.W. McNeely, A.L Campbell, Theodore Sisk, Fred W. Birden, A.F. Farrar,
Walton H. Purcell, and J. R. McLaughn.
1937
Under the leadership of Paul Worley, Toccoa Lions Club supported the development of
Stephens County Country Club and Golf Course, and expanded its recreational outreach.
New members enrolled in 1937 were Finley Walker, Bernard D. King, L.B. Brannan, Harry
Rhoden, Fletcher B. Means, Winston Owen, and E.W. Taylor.
Dropped in 1937 were R.W. Acree, N.V. Dyer, L.D. Moore, Nathan McGarity, William B.
Jones, J.T. Acree, John Wansley Jr., Bernard King, L. B. Brannan, and Fletcher B. Means.
1938
Lions proposed the Chattahoochee National Forest be extended into Stephens County, which
now borders on Toccoa Falls College property. President Paul Worley continued the recreational
emphasis with the Lions Club.
Joining Toccoa Lions in 1938 were T.F. Watson (1-38, George Lipscomb, and Jack Richardson.
Dropped in 1938 were Harry Rhoden, E. W. Taylor, and T.F. Watson (6-38)
1939
Toccoa Lions witnessed the building of Gate Cottage by the CCC. Succeeding Lion Paul
Worley, Dr. W. H. Heller was elected president of the Toccoa Lions Club.
Joining Toccoa Lions in 1939 were James A. Mosley, Claude Anderson, Carter Goode, Walton
Barnes, H.H. Barnett, Schaefer Lawson, Martin Whitley, T.F. Watson, Dr. B. N. Gilbert, and J. G.
Prickett.

Members dropped in 1939 were W.A. Whitworth, Ben F. Check Jr., George Lipscome, and
Carter Good.
1940
Toccoa Lions sponsored a political rally of gubernatorial candidates at a gathering on the
grounds of Toccoa High School. An audience of 9,000 people heard speeches from Candidates Abbit
Nix from Athens, Hugh Howell from Atlanta, Columbus Roberts from Columbus.- Eugene Talmadge,
and Candidate.
McCray. Lions president was W. R. Heller. Lion W.J. Andrews presided at the district rally. Dr.
D.S. Patterson offered the invocation.
J.J. Strange was received into membership in 1940, and Schaefer Lawson was dropped.
1941
Dr. W. B. Heller, a medical general practitioner, was elected president of Toccoa Lions, and in
his term the club was related to worldwide events. After the attack on Pearl Harbor and the entrance of
the United States into the Second World War, Immediate Past President Paul Worley, now principal of
Toccoa High School, applied for service in the U.S. Navy, but was advised to continue at his position
with the Toccoa High School. The Lions baseball team continued to be active. Lions added in 1941
were W.L. Suttles, Leonard Neill, Eugene Collins, Rev. D.S. Patterson, Frank Davis (5-41, W.L. Fayle
(5-41, John McCorkle (5-41, Dr. J.A. Johnson (5-41, Earl A. Rhoads (6-41, C. M. Gaston, R. A. Dean,
and Corbin Smith. Members dropped in 1941 were A. F. Garrison, James. A. Mosley, Claude
Anderson, Martin Whitley, Leonard Neill, Eugene Collins, Frank Davis (12-41), W.L. Fayle (12-41),
John McCorkle (12-41), Jj. Johnson (12-41), Earl Rhoads (12-41.)
1942
Succeeding Lion W.B. Heller as club president, Lion T. F. Watson was elected for the 1942-43
year. Lion Paul Worley was not taken into military service when he volunteered again. Members
received in the war year of 1942 were Leo Burgess, Frank Davis (8-42, H. C. Lindahl, Fred Collins,
and Buck Bailey. Rev. D.S. Paterson was dropped in 1942.

1943
Lion Walton Barnes, teacher at Toccoa High School, was elected president of Toccoa Lions,
succeeding Lion T.F. Watson. When the military draft took older men, Lion Paxil Worley at 38 years
of age was drafted, and applied to be a military guard in the U.S. Navy. His application was rejected,
and he was assigned an instructor in the United States Naval Academy at Bainbridge, Maryland.
Subsequently in the U.S. Navy he taught physics in Princeton University, and at Great Lakes, Illinois.
Added in 1943 were Rev. E.E. Hollingsworth, Dr. R.E. Sapp, Hershel Taylor, T.G. Watson, Dr. F.W.
Carruth, Dr. W.E. Griffin, T.N. Hunnicutt, Leon Williams, D.W. Sweet, Charles Stewart, Esco
Whitfield, Charles Tomlin, J.E. Self, Horace Whitworth, Martin Whitley (6-43, J.J. Myers, Claude
Anderson, Dick Wilbanks, Phil Scott, Sam Summers, Lloyd Stanley, S.M. Watson, Fred Purcell, H.
Franklin, E.K. Kirkman, Roy Maxwell, Paul Means, Roy Wheeler, George Beck, and William B. Lee.
Lions dropped in 1943 included Paul Worley, who began service in the U.S. military training of
officers. Others dropped in 1943 were Finley Walker, J G. Prickett, W.L. Suttles, Leo Burgess, H.
Lindahl, Rev. R.E. Hollingsworth, T.G. Watson, Dr. F.W. Carruth, and Dr. W.E. Griffin.
1944
During this war year President Walton Barnes continued as president of Toccoa Lions Club. The club
expressed interest in men in the Armed Forces, and continued its program of recreation and sight
conservation in Stephens County. Members received in 1944 were Robert C. Acree, William McNeely,
C.C. Hardin, Bernard E. Ivey, T.C. Aiken, R.E. Brandon, Miles Davis, Roy McCay, Dr. C.J. Sapp, L.P.
McKibben, and J.M. Rogers. Members leaving the club in 1944 were H.H. Barnett, Buck Bailey, Dr.
R.E. Sapp, T.N. Hunnicutt, Leon Williams, D.W. Sweet, Charles Stewart, Esco Whitfield, J.E. Self,
Horace Whitworth, Dick Wilbanks, Phil Scott, Lloyd Stanley, S. M. Watson, Roy Maxwell, Paul
Means, Roy Wheeler, George Beck, and Bernard E. Ivey.
1945
Lion Dr. C. J. Sapp, a general practitioner, was elected president of Toccoa Lions to serve in 1945-46.
The club looked forward to the return of men in military service. Members received in 1945 were Van
C. Nelms, George Bishop, Luella Barendae, Smith Hill, J.E. Thomas

transferred from Greensboro (Georgia) club, W.E. Thomas, Frederick W. Hayes, C.B. Pannall, and
C.E. Silvey. Lions dropped 1945 were Dr. W.B. Heller, T.F. Watson, Dr. B. N. Gilbert, Corbin Smith,
Fred Collins, J.J. Myers, H. Franklin, E.K. Kirkman, R.E. Brandon, Roy McCay, and Louella
Barendae.
1946
Toccoa Lion W.J. HDub" Andrews was elected deputy governor of Lions District 18-A. Lion Charles
M. Gaston with the Southern Railroad was elected president of Toccoa Lions for 1946-47. The Lions
participated in the community Christmas parade. A float committee constructed and decorated the
Lions float. Members who joined in 1946 were Jack Richardson, J.A. Skelton, Hubert Smith, W.R.
Roberts, W.W. Mullinax, Otto Terrell, A.B. Collier, J.K. Lee, J .P. Royster, F.W. Hemphill, W.H.
Shirley, H.T. Dawson, R. W. McNeely, Carroll A. Andrews, Roy Hemphill, B.L. Rogers, Carl Sosabee,
Earl C. Bowen, C.H. Bailey Jr., Robert W. Stephen, F.C. Chandler, Dewey Gilliland Jr., Haskell Smith,
Lester W. Howington, Ben T. Wiggins, Harold C. Langston, J. Fred Barry, Roy C. Taylor, J.C. Collins,
H.J. Oliver, Anderson Crawford, Thomas F. Mosely, J.J. Myers, and Wilmer H. Shirley. Members
dropped in 1946 were Miles Davis, Dr. C. J. Sapp, J. M. Rogers, George Bishop, Smith Hill, J.E.
Thomas, W.E. Thomas, Frederick W. Hayes, C.E. Silvey, Jack Richardson, J.A. Skelton, Hubert Smith,
W.R. Roberts. W. W. Mullinax, Otto Terrell, F.W. Hemphill, W. H. Shirley, R. W. McNeely, Carroll
A. Andrews, Roy Hemphill, and Robert W. Stephens. Andy Crawford, who joined the club in the 1946-
47 year, described this about the club at that time. "I joined the Toccoa Lions Club in the 1946- 1947
year, and was sponsored by Charles Tomlin, who died in 1996.* "At the time I became a member, the
club met weekly at the Swift Hotel, each Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. Mrs. Luella Thomason, who operated
the Swift Hotel, served us a good meal each week. The cost was 75 cents for the week that was paid
from our monthly dues of $4.00. The club president was Charley M. Gaston, who was employed at
Southern Railway."

1947
Toccoa Lion W.J. "Dub" Andrews was elected first district governor of the newly formed Lions
District 18-D for 1947-48. Lion C. H. "Buck" Bailey, furniture salesman at McNeeley Furniture
Company, was elected Lions president for 1947-48. Lions participated in the Christmas parade. Andy
Crawford comments, "In my second year in the club, 1947-48, W.J. Andrews, a very enthusiastic
member and the 1933 club charter president, became the first governor of District 18-D, when the
district was formed. Lions inducted into Toccoa club in 1947 were James E. Randolph, W.G. Shelton,
Harold Coffee transferring from Clayton club as a member since 1942, C.B. Allen, W.F. Button,
Homer D. Smith, Jack Sosebee, Bill Harris, Charles E. Jones, C. J. Pearson, Robert W. Stephen, Harold
Marler, Tom Tanner, M. Frank Vanderhoof, Carl Noe transferring from Oak Ridge club in Tennessee
with membership since May 1946, Dr. Julian Q. Waters, James T. Davis, Carroll Andrews, Matt
Maddox, Fred A. Stowe, Otto Terrell, and Joe H. Whiten. Members dropped in 1947 were D. H.
Ramsey, R.A. Dean, Claude Anderson, Robert C. Acree, L.P. McKibben, J.F. Royster, B.L. Rogers,
Carl Sosebee, Earl C. Bowen Boyce D. Smith, Dewey Gilleland Jr., Lester W. Howington, Harold C.
Langston, J. Fred Barry, Roy C. Taylor, H.J. Oliver, J.J. Myers, Wilmer H. Shirley, W. O. Shelton,
C.B. Allen, Homer D. Smith, C.J. Pearson, Robert W. Stephen, and Harold Marler.
1948
Lion R. M. Matthews of Gainesville succeeded Dub Andrews from Toccoa as District Governor of 18-
D. Lion Julian C. Waters, M.D was elected Toccoa Lions president for 1948-49. Andy Crawford
comments, "In the 1940s we had a small membership, but as it began to grow, the club moved to
different meeting places. For a short time we met at the Thread Mill Cafeteria. Then we met at the
Albermarle Hotel, now the Alexander Apartments. Mrs. Lou Mae Collier, wife of charter member A.B.
Collier who was very active in the club, operated the hotel. The Albermarle Hotel had only one dining
room. Meeting in this dining room was most unsatisfactory, because dinner guests at the hotel ate at the
same time and were disruptive to our Lions dinner and program." Lions received in 1948 were Harold
S. Tutee, Roy Mickey, Lye Maxwell, Winston Owen, Horace Whitworth, John King transferring from
Winder club as a member since 1-47, John Smith transferring from Green Cove

Springs club in Florida as a member since 10-47, Fred Collins, J.H. Addison, Roy J. Settle, Joe
Hutcherson, Leonard Neill transferring from Dalton club as a member since 4-46, Dewey Gilleland,
Charlie C. Hardin, William H, Brown, William M. Cochran, Robert McAloney, Edward B. Akin, John
B. Ayers, Edwin M. Hood, Henry Webb, and Leon E. Williams. Dropped in 1948 were Fred Purcell,
William McNeely, C.C. Hardin, C.B. Pannell, F.C. Chandler, and Leonard Neill.
1949
Lion Thomas F. Mosley from Coats and Clark was elected president of Toccoa Lions Club for
1949-50. Moultrie, Albany, and Atlanta Lions clubs founded the Lighthouse that became a statewide
project. Lion C.R. Clegg of Clarkesville became District Governor of 18-D, succeeding R.M.
Matthews.
Andy Crawford recalls the unsatisfactory period when the club had ho private room and was
disturbed by other dinner guests at the Albermarle Hotel dining hall operated by Lou Mae Collier.
"Mrs. Collier then opened the Tea Room Restaurant in her own home to serve the Lions club each
Tuesday, without the interruption by hotel guests. Like Mrs. Thomason, Mrs. Collier was an excellent
cook, and we all enjoyed her meals. The Tea Room was located on the site where the First Fn the 1990s
was located on East Tugalo Street.* Financial in
Members received in 1949 were Al Guimond, C.J. Donaldson, David A. Dukes, and D. Auld.
Members dropped in 1949 were William B. Lee, T.C. Aiken, Charles Tomlin, A.B. Collier, J.K.
Lee, Haskell Smith, Bill Harris, Dr. Julian Q. Waters, Matt Maddox, J.H. Addison, Dewey Gilleland,
William H. Brown, Leon E. Williams, and David A. Dukes
1950
Lion Ben T. Wiggins, an attorney, was elected Toccoa Lions president for 1950-51. Lion W.B.
Caldwell of Greensboro was elected District Governor of District 18-D. Members received in 1950
were Clarence Johnson, Howell Higgins, John Eidson. Albert Kesler, Edward Holcomb. Walter Hicks.
J.F. Hannaford, LeRoy Cash, Howard Whitaker, R.L. Eyles, Tom Tanner, Charles Tomkin, Fred
Purcell, Harry Crawford, N.P. Wood, C.L. Kenimer, L.C. Nix, and Harry J. Busha. Members dropped
in 1950 were William H. Cochran, Henry Webb, D. Auld, Clarence Johnson, Walter Hicks, J. F.
Hannaford, R.L. Eyles, Tom Turner, Charles Tomkin, N.P. Wood, and L.C, Nix.

1951
Lion R. C. McAloney from Coats and Clark was chosen president of Toccoa Lions for 1952-53. Lion
Kenneth Carswell of Macon became District Governor of 18-D. New Lions in 1951 were Rex Gosa,
T.Y. AngeU transferring from Franklin in North Carolina from 7-39, W.Y. Grooh, John W. Fiveash,
Hoyt O. Gillespie, Thomas R. Fuller, Frank T. Sands, Davis Vaughn, transferring from Clarkesville
club from 1-50, Albert G. Andrews, Joe McMillan, and Willard Kimsey. Members dropped in 1951
were CM. Gaston, H.T. Dawson, John B. Ayers, C J. Donaldson, J.C. Collins, Albert Hesler, Fred
Purcell, C.L Kinimer, and Harry J. Busha.
1952
In the Lone Oak Motel on Route 123 North, Lion Dr. Edwin Hood, Toccoa High School principal, was
elected president of Toccoa Lions Club for 1952-53. Lion Walter Barnes continued as an outstanding
Tail Twister. Lion Neal Whitworth of Lavonia became District Governor of 18- Members received in
1952 were Earl P. Barber, Henry N. Mims, J.P. Parnell, Doyle Ramsay, Roy Gill, James H. Williams,
Alex J. Cauthorn, Jesse J. Baxter, Gerald J. Liloia, Joe Watts, and Sam Elrod. Members withdrawn in
1952 were Thomas F. Mosely, Al Guimond, W.H. Grooh, Frank T. Sands, Henry N. Mims, and Doyle
Ramsey.
1953
Toccoa Lion Robert C. McAloney was elected District Governor of 18-D for 1953-54. Lion Joe
Hutcherson from Deluxe Tire Store became president of Toccoa Lions to serve in 1953-54. The club
met at the Lone Oak Restaurant on East Currahee. Members received in 1953 were William Harris,
Maurice McCurry, Dr. Irving D. Hellenga, Rev. James D. Mathews, Rev. Billy Wallace, Louis Malik,
George W. Rice, Charles Gaines, W.G. Coffee, W.T. Justice, J. Nolan Spear, John W. Howard Jr.,
Vincent Dermott, and Kenneth Shoup. Members lost in 1953 were C.H. Bailey Jr., Carroll Andrews,
Howell Higgins, John Eidson, J.P. Parnell, James H. Williams, Jon Watts, and Louis Malik. Andy
Crawford recalls, "In the early '50s I served as secretary- treasurer, until the positions were separated. I
continued as treasurer,

and Haskell Smith became the first full time secretary. Later Willard Kimsey served as secretary, and
as treasurer."
1954
Lion Ed Holcomb, salesman at Claude Groover Ford Company, was elected president of
Toccoa Lions Club for the year 1954-55. Gainesville Lion F.N. Runnels succeeded Toccoa Lion R.C.
McAloney as District Governor of 18-D. Members gained 1954 were Ralph J. Bowers, Ellis R. Foster,
G. W. Goss, Alfred J. Yates, J.G. Prickett, Roy L. Carder transferring from Florence in Alabama from
9-49, Clayton Price transferring from Seneca in South Carolina from 10-51, M. McCallister
transferring from Burlington in North Carolina from 4-48, Joseph M. Malik, Fred J. Johnson, Henry
Caudell, Leo Bulova, J.L. Henderson, Rev. L. G. Marlin transferring from Winder from 2-45, Fred
Hamby transferring from Clarkesville from 9-53, and Harold R. Mclravey. Withdrawn in 1954 were
Van C. Nelms, Edwin M. Hood, John W. Fiveash, Roy Gill, Alex J. Cauthorn, Rev. James D.
Mathews, Rev. Billy Wallace, Charles Gaines, Ellis R. Foster, G.W. Goss, Alfred J. Yates, J.G.
Prickett, Fred J. Johnson, and J.L. Henderson.
1955
Lion Willard Kimsey, bookkeeper at Bank of Toccoa, was elected president of Toccoa Lions for 1955-
56. Broom sales were held in spring. Chickenques, barbecues and Fish Fries were held during the year.
Lion H.O. Carlton of Clarkesville became District of Governor of 18-D. Willard Kimsey became zone
leader. Newly inducted members in 1955 were James W. Vaughan, William C. Hunt, Dr. Frank Y.
Edmonds, Bill Friar, Paxil Anderson, Clarence Jarrett, G.C.L Blackwell, and F.R. Guin transferring
from Athens club from 3-54. Withdrawn in 1955 were Hoyt O. Gillespie, Earl P. Barber, Jesse J.
Baxter, Gerald J. Liloia, W.G. Coffee, John W. Howard Jr., Vincent McDermott, Roy L. Carder, Henry
Caudell, and James W. Vaughan.
1956
Lion Thomas R. Fuller, of Harding and Fuller Insurance, became president of Toccoa lions
succeeding Willard Kimsey. Lion E.M. Dyer from Decatur became District Governor of 18-D. Willard
Kimsey became Region Chairman.

1957
Lion Edward B. Akin, a teacher at Toccoa High School, was chosen as president of Toccoa
Lions for 1957-58. Lion R.E. Cross of Clayton became District Governor of 18-D. The club changed its
meeting place from Lone Oak Cafe to the Red Room of the Terrell Restaurant, and on special
occasions used the entire restaurant. Later the Terrell Restaurant became the Cobb's Restaurant. New
members in 1957 were D.S. Forrester, William J. Fincher, Clifton A. Boyd, William V. Land, Dr. Cyril
Williams, Charles Savage, W.W. Smith, Rev. Byron Kennedy transferring from Hawkinsville from 10-
50, Kytle Oliver, Otto Roberts, Wilmer H. Shirley, Ferman Gregory, Charles Lewallen, J. Marion
Thomson, James L. Thompson, Dr. Robert E. Shiflet, and Peter K. Arnold. Withdrawn in 1957 were
Sam Elrod, Ralph J. Bowers, Harold R. McHravey, Paxil Anderson, F.R Guin, James H. Garrett Jr.,
Thomas Marion Jordan, and Charles Savage. ':."
1958
Toccoa Lion Willard Kimsey was elected District Governor of 18-D for 1958-59. Lion W. L.
Green, agricultural teacher at Stephens County High School, became president of Toccoa Lions for
1958-59. Ed Akin became cabinet secretary-treasurer during the tenure of Willard Kimsey as District
Governor, and provided transportation for Kimsey, and accompanied him in his official visits. Joining
Toccoa Lions in 1958 were Albert Garland Flinton, William W. Macomson, Thomas Lamar McClain,
John E. Ogden, WA Trotman, Porter Tant, Kermit Godwin transferring from Headland in Alabama
with Lions membership since 1-52. John L. Bishop, Fred W. Carruth, Dwight L. Coker, Rice B. Green,
Charles Pursley, Jack Jones, James Stowe, John B. Vaughn, and Floyd Addison transferring from
Luray in Virginia as a Lion since 10-57.
Members dropped in 1958 were Kenneth Shoup, Joseph M. Malik, Leo Bulova. Claude Bowers.
J.C. Collins. Jesse J. Baxter. D.S. Forrester. William J, Fincher, and Dr. Cyril Williams
1959
Lion C. Maurice McCuny of McCxirry's Men's Shop was elected President of Toccoa Lions for
1959-60. North DeKalb Lion W.F. Mosher was elected District Governor of 18-D.

New members in 1959 were Troy L. Bowen, Dr. Robert E. Thompson, Thomas H. Cox Jr.* Ralph
Tabor transferring from Cadiz club in Indiana, J.T. Hartley, Reid S. Farmer, Earl H. Freeman, Randall
R. Nix, Allie C. Sparks, Charles H. Taylor, Jimmy Howard, Mack Garrett, Gene Bellflowers, William
Royce Fricks, Curtis L. Hove, and Mac Fry. Members dropped in 1959 were !Rev. I G. Marlin,
Clarence Jarrett, G. C. L. Blackwell, Clifton A. Boyd, John E. Ogden, Kermit Godwin, Jack Jones, and
J.T. Hartley.
1960
Lion Charles "Chuck" Gaines from Radio Station WNEG was elected president of Toccoa
Lions for 1960-61. Winder lion Dr. C.A. Shaw was elected District Governor of 18-D. Members added
in 1960 were Martin Sisk, James Caldwell transferring from Cornelia as a member since 7-59, R.B.
Leverett, Lewis Gleason, James A. Hester, L.B. Rudisill transferring from Athens club a member from
11-59, Earl V. McCorkle, Harold W. Howell, William Troy Whiten, Bill Cochran, and Perry Matheson.
Members dropped in 1960 were W.T. Justice, William C. Hunt, J. Marion Thomason, Albert Garland
FTinton, Peter K. Arnold, Fred W. Carruth, Rice B. Green, Floyd Addison, Thomas H. Cox Jr., Allie
C. Sparks, Martin Sisk, and R.W. Leverett Jr.
1961
Lion Dr. Irving Hellenga was elected president of Toccoa Lions for 1961-62. Clayton Lion C.R.
Marchman was elected District Governor of 18-D. Andy Crawford recalls, "In the early '60s our Lions
club had a barbershop quartet, consisting of Mack Garrett, Wayne Sumner, Tom McClain, and me,
with Irving Hellenga as an alternate. Lion John Bishop was our manager. Ralph Tabor was
accompanist. We were scheduled to sing at the 1960 State Convention Sunday afternoon session in
Atlanta. We were dressed in red and white blazers and derby hats, but Ralph became sick. Dr. Irving
Hellenga was with Ralph, and Past District Governor Willard Kimsey expressed regret to the
convention audience that the quartet was unable to sing "a cappella. * Lions who joined 1961 were Jim
Fricks, Loy Purdy Jr., Henry Breeme, Clarence Jarrett, Donald Brown, Edwin Elrod, Gerald
Westbrook, Boyd Gilstrap, Fred B. Cooley, Lewis H. Williams, Harry S. McDonald, Thomas H. Cox.
and R.D. Smith. Jr.

Lions whose membership was dropped in 1961 were William Harris William V. Land, William Royce
Flicks, Mack Garrett, James A. Hester L.B. Rudisill, Earl V. McCorkle, and Harold W. Howell
1962
Lion Frank Y. Edmonds, chiropractor, was elected president of Toccoa Lions club for 1962-63.
Gainesville Lion J.R. Hampton was elected District Governor of 18-D. New Lions joining in 1962 were
Horace Luther, Billy; F. Vral transferring from Clarkesville Club as a member since 10-61, Maurice E.
Hallford, Wayne Payne, Harold Bragg transferring from Millen club in Georgia he had joined in 10-61,
Boyd Matheson transferring from Morristown club in Tennessee from 5-57, Fred Fullington, William
H. Slaton, and John Mullinax. Members dropped in 1962 were William W. Macomson, Charles H.
Taylor, Lewis Gleason, Bill Cochran, Loy Purdy Jr., Henry Breeme, Gerald Westbrook, R.D. Smith Jr.,
and Billy F. Vral.
1963
Lion J. Nolan Spear, bookkeeper at Bank of Toccoa, became president of Toccoa Lions for
1963-64. Decatur Lion R.K. Weekley was elected District Governor. lions who joined in 1963 were
William D Flory M.D., Robert J Payne, George W. Caff, Gayland C. Johnson, Conrad C. Anderson,
and Bill Johnson transferring from Clayton club as a member since 11-60. Members dropped in 1963
were Joe McMillan, Maurice McCurry, Lonnie L. Trexler, L. Wayne Nelson, J.C. Collins, Thomas
Lamar McClain, James Stowe, Earl V. McCorkle, C Wayne Sumner, William Troy Whiten, Perry
Matheson, Clarence Jarrett, Harold Bragg, and Fred Fullington.
1964
Lion Earl Freeman, manager of Men's Dry Goods (clothing store) Andrews-Hamby, became
president of Toccoa Lions for 1964-65. Athens Lion Sam Wilson was elected District Governor of 18-
D. Lions who joined in 1964 were Grover Head, Frank Davis, Raymond A. Neal, Jim T. Coker,
William C. Hunt, Donald H. Caldwell, Owen Burdette, and Howard W. Chamber transferring from
Comer club who was a member since 10-58. Members dropped in 1964 were Rex Gosa, J. Nolan
Spear, Donald Brown, William H. Slaton, and Gayland C. Johnson.

1965
Lion Curtis L. Hove, finance officer at Medical Arts Clinic on Savannah Street, became
president of Toccoa Lions to serve in 1965-66. Tucker Lion E.P. Faulkner was elected District
Governor of 18-D. The Lions club cooperated with the Rotaiy club in establishing an annual Top Five
Banquet to honor high school graduates, fifteen individuals, five each from Toccoa Falls High School,
Stephens County High School, and Toccoa High School. Edgar P. Faulkner from Tucker was elected
1965-66 governor of District 18-D. Lions who joined in 1965 were Guy McGinnis Jr., W.G. Newsmen
Jr., Claud Smith, and Paul Copeland transferring from Siloam Springs in Arkansas since 3-65, Welton
Carpenter, Luke Collier, C. Davis Lockman, and Irvin Otis Berkham Jr. Members dropped in 1965
were W. Harold Coffee, Thomas R. Fuller, James L. Thompson, Boyd Matheson, M. Frank Davis, Jim
T. Coker, and Owen Burdette.
1966
Lion Dr. Robert Thompson, general practitioner, became president of Toccoa Lions serving in
1966-67, Lion Ed Owens of Flowery Branch became District Governor. Andy Crawford comments,
"By the late 1960s our membership had reached the 90s, and we must have had a waiting list for
members. Even though I had been asked to be the Third Vice-President, I had rejected this opportunity
until about 1966. When Dr. Lewis Williams resigned as Third V.P., President Robert Thompson and
other officers called me in while they were in session, and asked me to be to be Third V.P. I accepted,
and rose to become president in 1969-70. *In these years the club had plenty of good youthful help, and
we worked as a team on various projects. We would work for several nights previous to the annual
Christmas Parade, in order to construct an elaborate float. Because this was a competitive project, we
received many awards for Parade floats. "Our annual Christmas party in the '60s and 70s was held at
the Clemson House in South Carolina, the second Tuesday in December. Lions brought their wives and
other guest couples. Community leaders were invited from the government, schools, the press and radio
stations,

and attendance often reached 300. We had an entertaining program, and gave door prizes and gifts for
all ladies attending. Chuck Gaines was Santa Claus, and in a very humorous act presented gifts to lucky
winners. "The First Vice-President was always in charge of the Christmas Party, and began
preparations in Clemson House the day before. Mr. Zink at the Clemson House was eager to have our
Lions, and always went out of his way to make this a most festive evening by providing a sumptuous
banquet. , He gave a hotel room without charge for the First Vice- President and his wife to use the
night before, and to change clothes the day of the party. * Lions who joined in 1966 were Carmen L.
Paletto, Elbert L. Hiatt, Carlos Barroso, W.M. Veal transferring from Commerce club, a member since
11-41, T.W. Street, Billy Don Pruitt, Ralton Brady, Howard Simmons, Ernest E. Russell, and Donn
Henson. Lions whose membership terminated in 1966 were Ferman Gregory, Mac Fry, Edwin Elrod,
Harry S. McDonald, Maurice E, Hallford, Guy McGinnis Jr., Paul Copeland, Irvin Otis Berkham Jr.,
Carmen L. Paletto, and T.W. Street. J
1967
Toccoa's Joe Hutcherson was elected District Governor of 18-D for 1967-68. Elected president
of Toccoa Lions was John L. Bishop, insurance adjuster. Lion First Vice-President Loyd Prewett
became president of Toccoa club at the death of Lion President John Bishop. Members who joined in
1967 were R.F. Mosley, Terrence Powell, M.L. Herron, Jack A. Laudermilk, William C. Buchanan,
Early Wyte, Edward D. Jameson, Joe Frank Stewart, Howard Zumbro, Dan Castor, Howard Zumbro,
John F. Crowe, Lamar Davis, and Dan Fulbright. Memberships terminated in 1967 were Reid S.
Farmer, John Mullinax, William D. Floiy M.D., and William C. Hunt
1968
Lion Loyd Prewett of LeTourneau Westinghouse served his own term as President of Toccoa
Lions. North DeKalb Lion Carl Donaldson became District Governor of 18-D. The cabinet consisted of
Deputy District Governor R.L. Hamrick, Gainesville; Cabinet Secretary Richard Pounds, Doraville:
Public Relations Chair, Curtis J. Lemoine Jr., Doraville; and Zone Chair, Irving Hellenga, Toccoa.

Officers of Toccoa club installed for 1968-69 were Lovd Prewett, president; Secretary William C.
Buchanan; Treasurer Wayne Payne Jr.; First Vice-President Anderson Crawford; Second Vice-
President Raymond Neal; Third Vice-President Fred Cooley; Chaplain Grover Head; Tail Twister Bill
Johnson; Lion Tamer Robert Payne; Directors Dave Lockman, Welton Carpenter, Jim Flicks, Jimmy
Howard; and Bulletin Editor Lillard W. Gibbs. Directors Aug. 6 proposed establishing a Leo club in
Toccoa. The Little League team was entertained at Leo Park, Aug. 13,' 1968. Second Vice-President
Ray Neal recognized Earl Freeman and Jack Loudermilk for their work with Little League team, and
Earl introduced each of twelve boys. Lion Welton Carpenter reported on the Calendar Sale, Aug. 6.
Lion Irving Hellenga announced at the Aug. 27 meeting at Cobb's restaurant the Sight Conservation
Committee requested $600 from the United Way for eyeglasses. The directors voted Sept. 3 to sponsor
a young person to attend a "Smoking and Health" conference in Atlanta, sponsored by Cancer, T.B.,
and Heart agencies. The Lions club met with the Kiwanis club at the Elks club, Sept. 10 to hear
members of the University of Georgia football staff. Assistant to Coach Vince Dooley of the Bulldogs,
Doc Ayers, described Astroturf and Tartanturf. i Zone Chair Hellenga conducted the Zone meeting at
Cobb's restaurant, Sept. 11. Each club was asked to secure a candidate for queen, from which a zone
queen would be chosen Oct. 19. The Cracker Jack sale began Sept. 15 when Lions met at Cobb's
restaurant at 1:30 p.m. The State Department of Rehabilitation and Education speaker at the Sept. 24th
program at Cobb's restaurant was Lion Leon C. Hall, who described how blind people worked at
concession stands in federal buildings. Nineteen Lions were recognized for selling 2200 Cracker Jacks.
- * -' October speakers at Lions meetings at Cobb's restaurant were, Oct. 8, Mrs. Scout Gunn, physical
education teacher at Toccoa High School and swimming instructor at the Youth Center pool; and Oct.
22, Dr. Alfred Davis from Toccoa Clinic.

Members received were Lillard Gibbs, in March; Harold Atkinson, Wiley Honea, and James H. Moore
in July; in Membership Month, October, transferring were Ralph Farmer from Royston, Georgia; and
Don Gathany from Pensacola, Florida, and Johnny Thomas, Robert Jordan, Billy Hendricks, M.A.
Cobb, John Mullinax, Tom McClain, Jerry M. Overall, James Oakley, and Harry Woodson; in
November, Gordon Howe and Hildon Leopard. Memberships were ended in 1968 for David Vaughn,
Charles Pursely, MX. Herron, Edward D. Jameson, and John F. Crowe. The members received in
October were visitors after July 1, 1968, who were approved at the Board meeting at Citizen's bank,
Oct. 1. An orientation session for them was held at Cobb's restaurant at a special meeting, Oct. 21, at
Citizen's bank. The following day, Oct. 22, at the regular meeting held at Cobb's restaurant, they were
received, and were inducted Nov. 26 by Willard Kimsey. The local Miss Peach Bowl Princess Beauty
Pageant for the 1968 first annual Peach Bowl in Grant Field in Atlanta was held at the Redwood Room
of Cobb's restaurant, Oct. 19, and the Zone pageant was Oct. 27 at Cobb's restaurant. Toccoa Lion
Chuck Gaines was toastmaster at the District 18-D rally, Oct. 26, 1968, at Gainesville Civic Center.
Second Vice-President of Lions International, Bob McCullough from Tulsa, Oklahoma, was guest
speaker. Lion Ed Akin introduced J. M. Stephens, principal Stephens County High School, as speaker,
Nov. 12, at Cobb's restaurant. The Lions float at the Nov. 30, 1968 Christmas parade consisted of a
footbaH field on which were located four large peaches and six Lions cheerleaders, with F.S.U. and
L.C. colors. Lions preparing the float were Jim Moore, Welton Carpenter, Tom McClain, Jack
Loudermilk, Hilden Leopard, James Oakley, Wiley Honea, M.A. Cobb, Loyd Prewett, and Lioness
Aileen Prewitt who painted the four large peaches. Lions awarded the Best Lineman and Best Back
awards at the Toccoa High School annual football banquet, Dec. 9, 1968, when Paul Anderson was
speaker. Coach Bobby Pate introduced players, and with Coach Snell presented them letters. Mrs. Joe
Vaughn introduced cheerleaders and made presentations. Roy Neal gave senior awards. The Clemson
Alumni Award was presented to Curtis Rogers by Joe Vaughn, and the Gem Jewelry Award by Lamar
Davis. Frank Edmonds presented the B

Team Awards, courtesy WNEG. Best Lineman and Best Back Awards, sponsored by Toccoa Lions
club, were presented to Lineman Johnny Murray and Back Curtis Rogers. Lighthouse Executive
Director Jim Corbett acknowledged a $60 gift from the Toccoa Lions club Thanksgiving Wishing
Well. Dr. Sam Hay addressed the Board of Directors*. Dec. 3, on the proposed Henderson Falls Park.
Madelyn Gillespie gave humor at Ladies Night Christmas Party at Clemson House, Dec. 10, and
directed the Liberty Life Chorale from Greenville, South Carolina, presenting Christmas carols,
patriotic songs, and hymns. Lion Ralph Tabor provided table music. Past International Director Joe
Davis and Mrs. Davis were guests. The first annual Peachbowl Football game was held on Grant Field,
Atlanta Dec. 30, 1968 between LSU and FSU. President Loyd Prewett reported the club had 81
members working on 140 projects with seven fundraisers toward an $11,000 yearly budget, and
boasted the oldest and youngest past district governors of Region 18- Bulletin editor Lillard Gibbs
reported in the October 1968 edition of "The Roar of Toccoa Lions," these statistics on Lions in
Georgia: District 18-A one region, three zones, 18 clubs; District 18-B, two regions, two zones, 14
clubs; District 18-C, three regions, two zones, 14 clubs; and District 18-D, four regions, two zones, and
10 clubs.
1969
County Commissioner Chuck Gaines was speaker, Jan. 14, 1969. Andy Crawford relates about his
presidency of the club, "Toccoa Lions sponsored a Stephens County High School football banquet at
the school cafetorium, Jan. 30 to honor the football team and cheerleaders. Lion Willard Kimsey as
Peach Bowl chairman reported District 18-D sold 3,006 tickets to the Peach Bowl. Bob Evans from the
Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce spoke, Jan. 28, 1969 on events involving the
proposed Henderson Falls Park. Lion Irving Hellenga reported Toccoa club donated 18 pairs of
eyeglasses since July 1, 1968, and donated $481 for sight conservation. Toccoa lions served Stephens
County High School football banquet, Jan. 30, 1969, at the Stephens County High School Cafetorium.
Lion Chuck Gaines was toastmaster. Lion Earl Freeman presented senior

liWWWWWWWtW awards, courtesy Lovett's Jewelry, the Gem Jewelry Award, courtesy of Lion and
Mrs. John Mullinax, was presented by Lion Don Pruitt. Lion Robert Payne presented the B Team
award, courtesy Radio Station WNEG, to Jimmy Dean. Lion Jack Loudermilk presented the Junior
Varsity award to Terry Reed. Lion Jimmy Howard presented the best lineman award to Gary Atkinson.
Lion Ray Neal presented the best back award to Mike Ivester. Lion Willard Kimsey introduced Howard
MDoc" Ayers, who entertained with humor, concluding with "What Football Is." Students from Truett
McConnell College, Bob Hatfield and Skip Wilhite, presented a comedy act and entertaining musical
duet at the Valentine Party, Feb. 11, 1969, at the Dillard House. The program was in charge of lion
Fred Cooley. Zone Chairman Irving Hellenga conducted the Zone Meeting at Cobb's restaurant, March
11, in conjunction with Toccoa's club meeting, and promoted a zone social combined with Lavonia
Lions on their 35th anniversary, March 20, 1969, held at the American Legion building in Lavonia.
New members received were in January 1969, Don Howard; in February, Lowell H. Edwards; in
March, Kyle Purcell, Jerry Sheriff, William Pierce, Larry Dodd, and William Tommy Farmer; in May,
John C. Lawrence, Bobby L. Stancil, Roger Murphy, and Morris Fuller; In June, William A. Bearss; in
August, Marvin South; in October, Michael Carey, Warren Hencely, Thomas L. Mathews, Doyle
Griggs, Lauren D. Purcell, Baxter Baughan, George Johnson, John Benson, Phil Grafton; in November,
Phil Carlson; and in December, Lonzo Smith. Members dropped in 1969 were John L. Bishop, Dwight
L. Coker, Ronald R. Nix, George W. Caff, Elbert L. Hiatt, Carlos Barroso, Randy Brady, Ernest E.
Russell, Jack A. Loudermilk, William C. Buchanan, Dan Castor, Thomas L. McClain, Jerry M.
Overall, and Don Howard. Toccoa Lions sponsored a car wash, April 5, 1969, at Robo Car Wash at the
corner of Big A and Currahee. The April 8, 1969 meeting was held at Victory Home with Tallulah
Falls, Clarkesville, Clayton, Cornelia, Martin, Union County, and Towns County clubs also attending.
The Zone meeting, March 11, was held at Toccoa club's regular meeting at Cobb's restaurant. A Zone
social was held March 20 at the American Legion building in Lavonia that honored Lavonia club's 35th
anniversary. Toccoa club sponsored sue men to attend Classes for Defensive Driving, May 2-4, to train
leaders to conduct similar defensive driving classes in the city and county.

District Governor of 18-D in 1969-70 was Robert Holbrook from North Decatur. Officers elected for
1969-70 were President Andy Crawford; First Vice- President Ray Neal; Second Vice-President
Wayne Payne Jr.; Third Vice- President Robert "Babbs" Payne; Secretary Welton Carpenter; Treasurer
Larnar Davis; Directors Dave Lockman, Dan Fulbright, Troy Bowen, and Claude Smith; Tail Twister
Bill'Johnson; Lion Tamer Jim Flicks; Chaplain Grover Head. Committee assignments for 1969-70 were
as follows: Ed Akin, Chairman Safety, Greeter, Education, Health and Welfare; Conrad Anderson,
Attendance, Sight Conservation; W.J. Andrews, Chairman International Relations, Convention Greeter,
Program, Past District Governor; Harold Atkinson, Safety, Community Betterment, Fund Raising; Walt
Barnes, Chairman Leo Club; Education, Greeter, Boys and Girls; Bill Bears, Program, Health and
Welfare; Troy Bowen, Director, Leo Club, Citizenship and Patriotism, Program, Health and Welfare;
Walt Button, Membership, land Retention, Lions Information, Youth Exchange, Budget and Audit;
Don Caldwell, M.A.L.; Welton Carpenter, Secretary; M.A. Cobb, Constitution and By-Laws; Luke
Collier, Club Photographer, Attendance, Bulletin; Fred B. Cooley, Chairman Fund Raising, Boys and
Girls; Tommy Cox, Chairman Youth Exchange, Leo Park; Lamar Davis, Treasurer, Finance; Larry
Dodd, Fund Raising, Agriculture; Frank Y. Edmonds, Chairman Lions Information, Boys and Girls,
Greeter; Lowell Edwards, Leo Club, Community Betterment, Safety; Ralph Farmer, Leo Park, Fund
Raising; W.T. Farmer, Scrapbook, Membership and Retention; Earl Freeman, Chairman Boys and
Girls, Greeter; Jim Fricks, Jion Tamer, Chairman Greeters, Citizenship and Patriotism; Dan Fulbright,
Director, Bulletin, Community Betterment, Safety, Finance; Morris Fuller, Chairman Cracker Jack
Sales, Constitution and By- Laws; Chuck Gaines, Publicity, Greeter; Don Gathany, Chairman
Education, Youth Exchange, International Relations, MAL during summer months; Lilliard Gibbs,
Chairman Bulletin, Safety; Boyd Gilstrap, Chairman Budget and Audit, Sight Conservation,
Attendance, Lions Information; W.L. Green, Agriculture, Education, Greeter; Grover Head, Chaplain,
Chairman Broom Sales, Leo Club, Boys and Girls; Irving Hellenga, Deputy District Governor, Song
Leader, Greeter; Billy Hendrix, Co-Chairman Calendar, Leo Club; Wiley Honea, Citizenship and
Patriotism, Lions Information; Curtis Hove, Co-Chairman Membership and Retention, Budget and
Audit, Greeter; Don Howard, Boys and Girls, Sight Conservation; Jimmy Howard, Sight Conservation,
Boys and Girls;

Joe Hutcherson, Chairman Constitution and By-Laws, Convention, Membership and Retention,
Greeter, Past District Governor; Bill Johnson, Tail Twister, Chairman Convention; Citizenship and
Patriotism, Publicity and Public Relations; Bobby Jordan, Chairman Calendar Sales; Publicity and
Public Relations, Scrapbook; Willard Kimsey, President Lions Lighthouse, Chairman House
Committee, Convention, Constitution and By-Laws, Greeter, Past District Governor; John Lawrence,
Health and Welfare; Hildon Leopard, Health and Welfare, Sight Conservation; Charles Lewallen,
Chairman Candy Sales, Leo Club, Education; Dave Lockman, Director, Chairman Barbecue, Sight
Conservation; Horace Luther, Bulletin, Fund Raising; Roy McCay, Finance, House; James H. Moore,
Chairman Agriculture, Fund Raising; F.R. Moseley, Membership and Retention, Constitution and By-
Laws; ｫ John Mullinax, Chairman Attendance, Youth Exchange; Roger Murphy, Co-Chairman Broom
Sales, Boys and Girls, Safety; Ray Neal, First Vice-President, Chairman Program, Membership and
Retention, Budget and Audit; James Oakley, Chairman Boys and Girls, Fund Raising; Kytle Oliver,
Chairman Citizenship and Patriotism, Attendance; Robert Payne, Third Vice-President, Boys and Girls,
Program; Wayne Payne Jr., Second Vice-President; Budget and Audit; Loyd Prewett, Immediate Past
President; Chairman Membership and Retention, Finance, Chairman Publicity, House, Safety, Greeter;
Clayton S. Price, M.A.L; Don Pruitt, Community Betterment, Agriculture; Kyle Purcell, Fund Raising,
Publicity and Public Relations; Otto Roberts, Attendance, International Relations; Jerry Sheriff, Fund
Raising, Citizenship and Patriotism; Wilmer Shirley, Chairman Leo Park, Constitution and By-Laws;
Claud Claud Smith, Director, Chairman Community Betterment, Attendance; W.N. Smith, Chairman
Finance, Program, Lions Information; Bobby Stancil, Leo Park, Fund Raising; Joe Frank Stewart, Fund
Raising, Boys and Girls, Leo Club; Ralph Tabor, Pianist, Leo Park, House; Johnny Thomas, Boys and
Girls, Health and Welfare; Robert E. Thompson, Chairman Scrapbook and Cup Awards, Greeter;
Gordon Towe, Agriculture, Publicity and Public Relations, Leo Club; Joe B. Vaughn, Youth Exchange,
Sight Conservation, Education, M.A.L. during summer months; W.M. Veal, Greeter, Membership and
Retention, Attendance; Howard Whitaker, M.A.L.; Lewis H. Williams, Chairman Health and Welfare,
Program, International Relations. Toccoa club was first place champion club in the District Governor's
contest in 18-D for 1968-69. District Governor Carl L. Donaldson

announced in June Toccoa Lions club received first place in the District Governor's Contest by a
margin of 315 points. Other awards received at the state convention in Macon, June 14-16, 1969, were
the West Point Plaque for the highest percentage of attendance of active members, the Augusta Plaque,
Sylvania Plaque, A .F. Rolf Memorial Plaque, tied with North Dekalb for the LaGrange Plaque, and
won second place for the Ledford Plaque and the Cartersville Plaque. . ^ North Decatur Lion Robert A.
Holbrook was elected governor of 18-D. His cabinet included Deputy District Governor Irving D.
Hellenga, Cabinet Secretary William G. Gibson Jr., Zone Chairman J. Winnon Smith, and Public
Relations Chairman Joe Underwood. Toccoa club numbered 92 with a $12,000 budget toward 140
projects. Lion Irving Hellenga at Cobb's Restaurant installed new Lions Charles Grimsley, Melvin
Addison, and Cecil Bailey, June 9, 1969. For the Barbecue, May 23, 1969, Lion Melvin Addison was
top barbecue salesman with about 150 tickets sold. lion Joe Vaughn reported Judy Norris would be
exchange student from Toccoa Lions. Lion Jimmy Carter was guest speaker at the Top-Five banquet
sponsored by Toccoa Lions and eight other civic groups, held at Stephens County High School
Cafetorium, April 29, 1969, honoring the graduates from local high schools with the highest academic
excellency. lion Chuck Gaines was toastmaster. lion Chuck introduced Ben Cheek III, who introduced
Lion Jimmy. Carter's theme was "Youth may be defined as an attitude toward life that makes one look
toward tomorrow with anticipation and pleasure." He said some old people are young, and some young
people are old. He continued, "Sometimes people are afraid they will fail. Abraham Lincoln was
unsuccessful on a number of occasions, to be elected to office, but in 1860 he was elected to the highest
office in the land, because he was not scared of being defeated." Carter said confidence is the attitude
of those who study physics, history, art, music, and other subjects. Aware that not everyone reaches
one's goals, he said, "If we do not earn our living from something we have studied and learned about,
we have lost nothing but have gained confidence." A youthful attitude appreciates what we have but
moves forward expectantly. To encourage the graduates, he acknowledged, "Every person is different
and deserves a chance to develop one's own potential." Aware

of the distinctiveness of youth of the 1960's, he noted, "People tend to conform, to look and to act, like
others around them." He said each generation is better qualified to know "why a person of his age
group acts as he or she does." Admitting changes in each generation, Carter continued, "We live in a
changing world, but there is something that does not change, and that is our relation to God." "Young
people who are brave, courageous, and not afraid to face the future," he challenged, "will mold the
destiny of this world. We can put our faith in young people like those honored here tonight." Honorees
from Stephens County High School were Deborah Burgess, Shelby Coker, Sandra Crowe, Marilyn
Dover, and Elese Holbrooks; from Toccoa Falls High School, Cheryl Booth, Virasakdi Futrakul, Tim
Gathany, Mary Hall, and Carol Lewis; and from Toccoa High School, John Harris, Juanita Hove
(daughter of Lion Curtis and Mrs. Hove, Nancy Hutcherson (daughter of Lion Joe and Mrs.
Hutcherson, Peggy Simmons, and Frank Worley. Lion Melvin Addison was top salesman, selling
approximately 150 tickets to the club Bar-B-Que, May 24. Lion Joe Vaughn reported Judy Norris as
Exchange Student from Toccoa. Agricultural Commissioner Tommy Irvin and Comptroller General
James Bentley were speakers in May. Lion Welton Carpenter reported on the Lighthouse meeting in
Macon, Oct. 19, presided over by Willard Kimsey as president. Fall sales included the Cracker Jack
Sale, headed by Maurice Fuller; the Halloween Candy sale chaired by Charles Lewallen, and the
Calendar sales directed by Bobby Jordan. Toccoa Lions sent senior football players and two coaches
and their wives from Toccoa High School to the second annual Peach Bowl game, Dec. 27, 1969,
matching the University of South Carolina and the University of West Virginia. George Crumbley,
Lions chairman, reported a profit for Lions of $49,452. He estimated 85% of U.S. population was able
to see the game on television. Tickets sold numbered 55,000, and 48,452 drenched by rain attended the
game. Peggy Jones was crowned Miss Peach Bowl Queen for Zone 2 at the second annual Miss Peach
Bowl Pageant at Cobb's Restaurant, Nov. 16, 1969. The Second Annual Peach Bowl featured South
Carolina against West Virginia, Dec. 27, 1969.

Kitchen Chutes of music-making mothers from Hampton, GA., who appeared on the Ted Mack
original amateur hour television program, provided entertainment at the Christmas Party at Clemson
House, Dec. 9. Ladies received door prizes. About 25 new members were added to the club in 1969, as
Andy- Crawford replaced Loyd Prewett as president. Visitors to Toccoa Lions club in 1969 included
State Director of Family and Children Services William H. Burros, Vice-President and Trust Officer of
the First National Bank of Atlanta Thomas A. Slaughter Jr., Georgia Comptroller General James
Bentley, Peggy Childs, Barbara Shirley of Rabun County Schools, and Past District Governor Sam
Wilson. Members added in 1969 were Don Howard, Lowell H. Edwards, Lany Dodd, William T.
Farmer, Kyle W. Purcell, William F. Pierce, Jerry Sheriff, John C. Lawrence M.D., Bobby L. Standi,
Roger Murphy, Morris Fuller, William A. Bearss, Marvin South, Michael Carey, Warren Hencely,
Thomas Coolly Mathews, Doyle Griggs, Lauren D. Purcell, Baxter Vaughan, George Johnson, John
Benson, Phil Grafton, Phil Carlson, and Lonzo Smith. r Memberships were terminated for John R.
Bishop, Dwight L. Coker, Randall R Nix, George W. Gaff, Elbert L. Hiatt, Carlor Barroso, Ralton
Brady, Ernest E. Russell, Jack A. Loudermilk, Don Castor, Thomas L. McClain, and Jerry M. Overall.
Andy Crawford reports, "I as president followed Loyd Prewett, who was 100% President. He served
with an excellent record when membership was the highest ever.* Prewett served as Cabinet Secretary
for Dist. Gov. Hellenga 1971-72, was Deputy District Governor in 1976, and after moving to the
Atlanta area, was district governor, 1986-87. Crawford concludes, "At the end of my year as president,
my family and I attended the Lions International Convention in Atlantic City, a trip we all remembered
so well. I was one of the campaigners for Virgil P. Moshansky, who was running for International
Third Vice-President.*
1970
January 1970 was designated Education month in Lionism. Lion Raymond Neal, an officer at
the Bank of Toccoa, was elected president of Toccoa Lions Club. Lion Sam Manning addressed the
club at Cobb's Restaurant, Jan. 27, 1970, on the description of the development of the Peach Bowl.

The Sojourners singing group from Toccoa Falls provided special music at the Valentine Party, Feb.
10, 1970 at the Dillard House. Mrs. Emily Cash rendered dinner music on the organ. Toccoa Lions
were present at the zone meeting at Cleveland, Feb. 12, at the Towns County 30th anniversary, Feb. 14,
and at the Lighthouse meeting, Feb. 15. .The Lighthouse announced a procedure for donating eyes to
the Georgia Lions Eye Bank in Atlanta. Containers for transporting eyes, on the death of a donor, are
available at $4 each from the Conservation Society, P.O. Box 1772, Roanoke, Virginia. Lion Max
Preston announced in a new Lighthouse Project that the Lighthouse will receive $3.00 for every C and
S Credit Card approved. Toccoa City Manager Charles Bell spoke at the March 10th meeting of
Toccoa lions. Lions Joe Hutcherson, Andy Crawford, Irving Hellenga, Conrad Anderson, and Welton
Carpenter attended the third zone meeting, held at Tom's Cafe in Royston. Al Prentice, business
manager of Toccoa Falls, introduced Richard Hanstine, March 24, 1970, who spoke of his personal
experience with drug addiction. The Cracker-Jack sale was held April 5, 1970 at the Big A Alignment
Company. Bill Lanier, immediate past president Georgia Farm Bureau, was speaker, April 14. There
were 62 Lions present, Toccoa hosted the Zone 2 social at the Sheraton Inn, April 23. Past District
Governor and representative of the Georgia Factory for the Blind, Joe Grollman from Bainbridge, Ga.,
was speaker. Dr. Augustus B. Turnbull spoke on "Diversity, Discipline, and Delight at the Top Five
Banquet sponsored by the Lions and eight other civic clubs, April 21, at the Stephens County
Cafetorium. William C. Cadle, executive director of Victory Home, described the history of Victory
Home, April 28, when Toccoa and 13 other Lions clubs were represented. The club attended the United
Methodist Revival services, May 5. The annual John Paul Jones Barbecue was held May 23. Officers
elected for 1970-71 were President Ray Neal, First Vice- President Wayne Payne Jr., Second Vice-
President Babbs Payne, Third Vice-President Welton Carpenter, Secretary Billy L. Johnson, Treasurer

Lamar Davis, Tail Twister James Moore, Assistant Tail Twister Bobby Jordan, Lion Tamer Jim Fricks,
Chaplain Don Gathany. Two-year directors were Grover Head, Dan Fulbright, and James Oakley. One
year Directors were Claude Smith, Troy Bowen, and Joe Vaughn. District Governors of in 18-D in
1970-71 were W.H. "Bill" Seaton from Gainesville, and Don Enzmann from Henderson Mill.
Blairsville. At the annual Toccoa High School football banquet Jan. 8, awards were presented to
cheerleaders by Mrs. Joe Vaughn; to seniors, by Dave Lockman; Clemson Alumni award by Lillard
Gibbs; B Team by Jim Fricks; Junior Varsity by Fred Cooley; Best Lineman by James Oakley; and
Best Back by Curtis Hove. Toccoa Lions were one of 14 clubs that attended Victory Home April 28.
Toccoa Lions attended the United Methodist Revival services as a body, May 5. Judy Norris was
sponsored by Toccoa Lions as a Youth Exchange student to France. Lion Wayne Payne reported 61
Toccoa Lions and guests attended the Second Annual Peach Bowl in Atlanta. Lions joining the club in
1970 were R. Marion Taylor, Cecil Bailey, Charles Grimsley, Melvin Addison, E. Doyle Anderson,
Ray Cｻ McKnight, George Wood, Forest Wheeler, and Joseph L. Massey. Memberships ceased for
Howard Whitaker, Ralph:Tabor, Robert J. Payne, Donn Henson, John Mullinax, Larry Dodd, William
F. Pierce, Jerry Sheriff, Roger Murphy, Warren Hencely, Baxter Vaughan, John Benson, and E. Doyle
Anderson.
1971
Wayne Payne, Jr., postmaster, was president of Toccoa Lions Club. Toccoa Lion Dr. Irving
Hellenga at the district convention was elected district governor of 18-D for 1971-72. Loyd Prewett
served as 1971-72 cabinet secretary. , Officers for 1971-72 were Wayne Payne Jr., president; Dan
Fulbright, secretary; Lamar Davis, treasurer; Welton Carpenter, 1st Vice-President; Charles Lewallen,
2nd Vice-President; Boyd Gilstrap, 3rd Vice-President; Joe Vaughn, Tail Twister; Jimmy Fulbright,
Lion Tamer; Grover Head, Phil Carlson, James Oakley, Lillard Gibbs, Flavil Moseley, Don Pruitt,
directors; Ray Neal, immediate past president. On Sept. 14 Lioness Mary Sue (Andy) Crawford
challenged the club to 'Keep Stephens County Green and Clean." She asked cooperation in the

campaign to keep the new Stephens County Athletic field clean and to put paper and trash in proper
containers. Joe Vaughn, Youth Exchange chairman, introduced Judy Norris who spoke of her
experiences in France, and thanked the Toccoa Lions Youth Exchange program. Willard Kimsey
announced Judy Norris had been selected by the Peach Bowl committee to represent Toccoa Lions in
Zone competition for Miss Peach Bowl Princess. On Sept. 28 High School Head Coach Carlton Veasey
explained team goals and progress. Also attending were his assistant Mac Poss and Jerry Snell, DCT
coordinator, who explained the DCT work job program for students. A cash donation of $5.00 was
given the club by two girls, Donna Smith, age 9, and Kim Hudson, age 10, who went door to door to
collect money to help the blind. Ed and Sharon Mangham and Danielle Falmon provided entertainment
at the Christmas Party Dec. 14 at Clemson House. Members joining in 1971 were Jimmy Fulbright,
John L. Quick, Dr. Kenneth M. Cleveland, Mack W. Oliver Jr. transferring from Union club in South
Carolina, Samuel Williams, Dean Whitworth, Sam Trotman, Robert Revelle, and W.A. Trotman Jr. '..'
Members leaving the club in 1971 were Earl W. Freeman, Jimmy Howard, Donald H. Caldwell, MA
Cobb, Lowell H. Edwards, William T. Farmer, William A. Bearss, Phil Grafton, Lonza Smith, and R.
Marion Taylor. ,
1972
Edwin C. Daniels of North DeKalb, Chamblee, was elected District Governor of 18-D
succeeding Irving Hellenga. Officers installed for 1972-73 were Welton Carpenter, president; Boyd
Gilstrap, 1st Vice-President; Joe Vaughn, 2nd Vice President; Lamar Davis, 3rd Vice-President; Dan
Fulbright, secretary; W.A. Trotman, chaplain; Lewis Williams, treasurer; Grover Head, Tail Twister;
Johnny Thomas, Lion Tamer, and Lillard Gibbs, Don Pruitt, Wiley Honea, Phil Carlson, Don Gathany,
Flavil Moseley, directors; and Wayne Payne Jr., immediate past president. Loyd Prewett was 1972-73
Zone chairman; Edwin C. Daniel, district governor; Ed Page, deputy district governor; Herbert Gable,
cabinet secretary; and Y.T. Abernathy, public relations chairman.

Zone Chairman Pruitt presided at the Second Zone meeting at Meredith Manor in Lavonia. Attending
from Toccoa were WJ. Andrews, Luke Collier, Ray McKnight, Irving Hellenga, Lillard Gibbs, Boyd
Gilstrap, Lewis Williams, and Welton Carpenter. Jimmy Carter was speaker at the District 18-D
convention at Gainesville in October. On Nov. 14 Linda Witcher from the General Telephone
Company speaking to Toccoa Lions announced direct long distance dialing in Toccoa would become
available Dec. 10, 1972. > Scoutmaster Steve LeCroy of Boy Scout Troup 168 sponsored by Toccoa
Lions, on Nov. 24, 1992, described club activities, assisted by Charles Head and Ted Stowe. President
Welton Carpenter received the Boy Scout Charter. The Roar of Toccoa Lions featured the organization
of the Boy Scouts in Great Britain in 1907 by Sir Robert Baldlen-Powell, with a camp for 20 boys. He
published the Boy Scout Manual in 1908. In 1910 Boy scouts spread to the U.S. when a good turn by a
British scout helped an America businessman William D. Boyce find his way in a London fog. Toccoa
Lions supported the fifth annual Peach Bowl that featured the Wolfpacks of North Carolina against the
Cavaliers of West Virginia. Total ticket sales were 52,761, and television coverage was by Mizlou
Production, Inc. Toccoa ticket sales were in charge of Lillard Gibbs, Willard Kimsey, Charles
Lewallen, Melvin Addison, Joe Vaughn, and Ray McKnight. Toccoa's Connie Rider, a 20-year-old
junior at University of Georgia, won the local Peach Bowl Miss Princess contest. She won
subsequently as Zone princess and District princess. Zone I Region I contestants included Terry Lynn
Dean of Martin and Cindy Mercer of Hartwell club. Loyd Prewett as Zone Chairman recognized Miss
Rider. The Peach Bowl Players award banquet was held Dec. 27 at the Marriott Motor Hotel, and a
Ladies Champagne luncheon was held Dec. 28, under the direction of Mrs. Brunson Mack of Atlanta.
A Peach Bowl President's Ball was held at 9 p.m. at Regency Hyatt House, and a Peach Bowl parade
Dec. 29, beginning at Peachtree Street and Baker, to Five Points, and west on Marietta to Spring, the
dispersal point. Toccoa Lions rang the bell for the Salvation Army Kettle, Friday, Dec. 15, atWABCO.
Toccoa Lions gave $200 to the Stephens County High School Band to help with expenses on their trip
to Chicago.

Guests at the Christmas Party, Dec. 12, 1972, at Clemson House included Dist. Gov. Ed Daniels,
Deputy Dist. Gov. Ed Page, Executive Secretary of Georgia Lighthouse Jim Corbett, President of the
Lighthouse Maurice Newman, and Zone Chair Loyd Prewett. Parson Langley, an employee of Riches
Department Store, gave entertainment at the Ladies Night Christmas Party, Dec. 12, at Clemson House.
Pruitt's Pharmacy furnished favors and merchants of Toccoa provided door prizes. Conrad Anderson
donated the plastic used for decorations. The unexpected happened when Santa Claus lost his breeches.
New members in 1972 were Joel E. Smith, Thomas Lamar McClain transferring from Gainesville club
from 10-68, Donald Griffin, Tom Sayers, Clarence J. Andrews, Thomas F. Oxley, W.H. Mobley, Joe
Hester (from 7-70) and Jim Powell (from 3-69) both transferring from Lancaster club in South
Carolina, Charles Thomas McCroskey, and Henry Burdette. Memberships ceased in 1972 for James
Oakley, Ralph Farmer, Gordon Towe, George Johnson, Cecil Bailey, George Wood, Forrest Wheeler,
Joseph L. Massey Sam Troutman, Robert Revelle, Thomas Lamar McClain, and Tom Sayers.
1973
On Jan. 9, 1973, Lion Boyd Gilstxap, meat market manager at Colonial Store, introduced
Sergeant McGinnis who spoke briefly and introduced Georgia Highway Patrolman Bill Holley who
described a new law regarding getting drivers licenses. Toccoa Lions at the Lighthouse meeting at
Alpine Motel in Macon Feb. 18, 1973, were Willard and Marian Kimsey, Irving and Myra Hellenga,
Loyd Prewett, Welton Carpenter, Andy Crawford, and Conrad Anderson. On Feb. 27 Past District
Governor Irving Hellenga was speaker at the installation of new members: David Austin and Butch
Mobley sponsored by Phil Carlson; Tommy Oxley sponsored by Sam Williams; Clarence Andrews
sponsored by Doyle Griggs; and Charles McCrosky sponsored by Melvin Addison. At the March 13
meeting Past District Governor Don Enzmann, who attended the 25th International Convention in
Ecuador, described the International Cooperative Projects undertaken by CARE and by Lions in
Ecuador and in Georgia, to provide tools and training. , On March 27 Toccoa Mayor Troy Bowen and
Urban Renewal Coordinator Clyde Murray spoke to Toccoa Lions. On April 10 Toccoa Lions were one
of 17 clubs at Victory Home.

A zone social was held at Martin community center, April 12, 1973. Willard and Marian Kimsey
suffered an automobile accident, April 21, 1973. As announced May 22, 1973, Toccoa Lions numbered
82 when Dist. Gov. Ed. Daniels installed officers for 1973-74: President Boyd Gilstrap; 1st Vice-
President Joe Vaughn, 2nd Vice-President Lamar Davis, 3rd Vice-President Dan Fulbright, Secretary
Lillard Gibbs, Treasurer Lewis Williams, Chaplain Marvin South, Tail Twister Joel Smith, .Lion
Tamer Jimmy Fulbright, Directors (two years) Claude Smith, Harold Atkinson, Bobby Jordan; (one
year) Phil Carlson, Wiley Honea, Don Gathany. Toccoa club purchased 15 tents for its Boy Scout
Troop 168. Toccoa club honored W.J. Andrews, W.L. Green, and Roy McCay for their 40th year in
Lionism. During June 27-30, 1973, Welton and Ruth Carpenter, Irving and Mrya Hellenga, Boyd and
Billie Gilstrap, and Loyd and Alene Pruitt represented Toccoa at the International convention in Miami.
Lion B. Edward Page from Hartwell was elected district governor for 1973-74. New members in 1973
were David L. Austin, Hulon D. Brown, Thomas Myron McClain, Joe Garner Wildson, Timothy F.
Key, Thomas Neal Duvall transferring from Pell City club in Alabama from membership in 12-72, Jim
Long transferring from Quitman club from membership in 8- 72, Maurice Cash, Troy Douglas, and
Kenneth Moon. *" Dropped from the roll in 1973 were Troy L. Bowen, Bill Johnson, C. Davis
Lockman, Billy Don Pruitt, Kyle W. Purcell, Thomas 1. Matthews, Doyle Griggs, Lauren D. Purcell,
Joe Hester, W.H. Mobley, and Henry Burdette.
1974
William C. Gibson from Decatur was elected district governor for 1974- At the State Convention at
Columbus, June 9-11, 1974, Irving Hellenga, Loyd Prewett, Luke Collier, Grover Head, Lilliard Gibbs,
and Melvin Addison represented Toccoa. On July 11 Lane Hellenga, daughter of Irving and Mrya
Hellenga, left for England as an Exchange Student. She visited District 105 Southwest (West) in
England, Aug. 11.

At the meeting, Sept. 10, 1974, Lion Maurice Cash gave a tour for Toccoa Lions at WABCO. Toccoa
club sponsored Jerry Whitlock and Lion James Caldwell to train to remove eyes of deceased donors. It
was announced Oct. 8, 1974, Laura Lawson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Howell Lawson, won the
seventh Miss Peach Bowl Pageant Contest at Sheraton Motor Inn. Blind Lion Johnny Vickery and his
leader dog and Deputy District Rob Rogers visited Toccoa club, Oct. 2 1974. The seventh annual
Peachbowl Football game was Dec. 28, 1974 at Atlanta Stadium. Willard and Marian Kimsey attended
the Peachbowl Directors Meeting, Sept. 7, at Quality Inn in Macon. Lion Willard ordered 300
Peachbowl tickets for the club to sell. Wendell L. Patterson Jr., mayor of Morrow, was speaker at
Ladies Night Christmas Party at Clemson House, Dec. 10. Lions joining the club in 1974 were Ronald
G. Barton, James Larry Poole, Tommy Clemmons, and Ronald Green. Dropped in 1974 were Kyle
Oliver, Otto Roberts, Curtis L. Hove, Thomas H. Cox, R. F. Mosely, Hildon Leopard, John C.
Lawrence M.D., Bobby L. Stancil, Phil Carlson, Dean Whitworth, W. A. Trotman Jr., Donald Griffin,
Clarence J. Andrews, Thomas Neal Duvall, Jim Long, Troy Douglas, and Kenneth Moon.
1975
Barbara Shirley, counselor at North Habersham Junior High School, described, Jan. 28, 1975,
her experience with near blindness. Toccoa Lions at the Lighthouse meeting, Feb. 16, 1975, at Macon
were Andy Crawford, Welton Carpenter, Conrad Anderson, Loyd Prewett, Irving Hellenga, Willard
Kimsey, and Lillard Gibbs. On Feb. 25 Lion Y.T. Abernathy spoke on the Eye Bank, and received eye
wills from George and Aletha Matuch at the meeting. Two quotations from Y.T. are "Give me vision
beyond my sight," and "Make me a neighbor beyond my neighborhood." . Jim Fricks was appointed to
explore getting a display case for showing awards won by Toccoa Lions. Toccoa Lions sent $122
toward the Fort Valley Emergency Fund to help reconstruct after tornado damage.

Toccoa was one of 18 clubs attending the inter-club meeting at Victory Home at Tallulah Falls, April
22, 1975. Toccoa and Martin Lions clubs were among several sponsors of the Top-Five Banquet when
Reg Murphey was speaker, and Yonah Community Chorus provided music. Doctors Carmen Burns and
Charles Meadows were guests, May 13, 1975, introduced by District Sight Conservation Chairman
Melvin Addison. District Governor Bill Gibson installed 1974-75 officers at a special meeting, May 27,
1975, at Dillard House: Lamar Davis, president; Dan Fulbright, 1st Vice-President; Lillard W. Gibbs,
2nd Vice-President; Don Gathany, 3rd Vice-President; David Austin, secretary; Mac Oliver, treasurer;
Horace Luther, chaplain; Claude Smith,' Tailtwister and Ray McKnight Assistant Tailtwister; Ron
Barton, Lion Tamer; Andy Crawford, song leader; Morris Fuller, Sam Williams, Melvin Addison,
Marvin South, Billy Hendrix, Hildon Leopard, directors; and Joe Vaughn, immediate past president.
Toccoa was represented at the State convention, June 8-10, 1975, at Jekyll Island by Melvin and
Gladys Addison, Grover and Francis Head, Morris and Betty Fuller, Mac and Judy Oliver, Lloyd and
Alene Pruitt, Irving and Mrya Hellenga, Lamar and Dot Davis, and Luke Collier. "; At the meeting,
July 8, Georgia Highway Patrolman Guy McGinnis spoke on highway, safety, and proposed safe young
drivers not be penalized by those who have accidents. , > At the July 22 meeting two inmates at the
Georgia Industrial School at Alto brought by Coordinator Allen Black spoke on drug abuse and drug
distributing that led to armed robbery. District Governor Ray Eastmoore made his official visit, Sept.
23, 1975, and emphasized World Lions Service Day, Oct. 8, Membership and Retention, and the
Lighthouse. He installed new Lions Ray Richardson and RondalJackson. On Oct. 14 Mary Lynn
Andrews was crowned Miss Peach Bowl at Sheraton Motor Inn. She later won in zone competition at
Citizens Bank on Highway 17, Oct. 19, won in the district pageant, and was second runner-up in state
competition Dec. 29-30. Toccoa Lions and ladies attending the District 18-D Rally, Oct. 25, 1975, at
Gainesville Civic Center were Lamar and Dot Davis, Willard and Marian Kimsey, Irving and Myra
Hellenga, Loyd and Aileen Prewitt, Welton and Ruth Carpenter, and Joe and Sue Hutcherson.

Charles Head was speaker, Oct. 28, 1975, on Boy Scouts and their function. In the club's newest
project, the club's Gospel Singing group held a musical program Nov. 1, 1975. Organized by Lion
Melvin Addison, the program was held at Stephens County High School. Lion Cliff Ingram from Druid
Hills club, director of Peach Bowl, was guest speaker, Nov. 11, 1975. . When Secretary David Austin
moved to North Carolina, he was replaced by Mack Oliver, and Myron McClain filled the unexpired
term of Mack Oliver as treasurer. At Ladies Night Christmas Party at Clemson House, Dec. 9, Lindsay
Terry, minister of music at Charlotte Baptist Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, imitated Grand Ole
Opry Stars, especially Red Brasfield. Carolyn Addison rendered dinner music. By vote in November
Santa was not invited. Lion Dan Fulbright and Lioness Ophelia made arrangements. Toccoa's candidate
Mary Lynn Andrews was crowned Miss Peach Bowl Queen for District 18-D, and at the finals Dec. 29-
30, was second runner-up. The eighth annual Peach Bowl Football game was played in Atlanta
Stadium, Dec. 31, 1975, with West Virginia University winning 14-10 over North Carolina State.
Cracker Jacks were sold to finance sending the Stephens County High School football team, coaches,
manager, cheerleaders and sponsors to the Peach Bowl game. Lioness Barbara Shirley, who received
an eye transplant several years ago, was made an honorary member of Toccoa Lions, as she anticipated
another transplant. New members in 1975 were Billy Richard Holbrook, Sanford Norris Jr., Forrest R.
Kelly, John D. Powell, M.C. Stowe, Ray E. Richardson, Randal Kenneth Jackson, James C. Harper
transferred from Miami Allapattan club in Florida from 12-39, Jerry Carroll, Leon L. Addison, Dr.
Kenneth G. Schneider, Jack D. Moore, L. Larry Segars, Curtiss L. Todd, and Harold Sorrells. Dropped
from membership in 1975 were Grover Head, Wiley Honea, Joel E. Smith, and David L. Austin.
1976
Dan Fulbright from Tabor Motor Company, parts manager, became president of Toccoa Lions.

Lillard Gibbs shared the poem "Georgia My State" his daughter Fonda wrote for a history class: "From
King George the Second came her name, 'Empire State of the South' is her fame. Georgia is known for
many crops, But growing peaches she is tops. She is famous for Eli's Cotton Gin, Margaret Mitchell
and 'Gone with the Wind.' In 1912 Juliette Gordon Low, Started the Girl Scouts and watched them
grow Along came James Brown and his aLi his band, how the crowds did cheer all over the land. Then
Hammering Hank came on the scene, and the fans went wild with every swing. This is Maddox country
they did say, But Busbee saw it a different way. Now, that event brings us up to date, and we are all
very proud of our state. Roy Gaines and Elly Johnson on Jan. 13, 1976, described their entry for
Toccoa at Chicago to become an ALi American City. New members in the first six months of the Lions
year were Jerry Carroll, Ronald Jackson, Ray Richardson, Jim Harper, Danny Mabry, Leon Addison,
Dr. Kenneth Schneider, J. Larry Segars, Curtiss L. Todd, Harold Sorrells, and James Irvin. New
members by February 1976 were Kytle Oliver, Peter Miccoli, and E.T. "Hoss" Atkinson. Lioness
Barbara Shirley spoke to the club Jan. 27, 1976 after her second cornea transplant. She announced
proceeds of the country- western program of Ray Griff and Band at Habersham Central High School
auditorium, April 17, 1976, would go to the Eye Bank program. The first White Cane day was held
April 10, 1976, and Toccoa and Martin clubs worked together on the project. The first annual White
Cane Sale on April 10, 1976, netted $145. Lion Dan Fulbright promoted the White Cane Sale and the
Victory house meeting April 13, 1976. Lion Joe Vaughn submitted the name of Susan Ramsey for the
Youth Exchange in Ontario, Canada. Dist. Gov. Ray A. Eastmoore on May 25, 1976 at the Dillard
House installed 1976-77 officers: President Dan Fulbright, 1st Vice-President

Lillard W. Gibbs, 2nd Vice-President Don Gathany, 3rd Vice-President Mac Oliver; Secretary Myron
McClain, Treasurer Ron Barton, Chaplain Horace Williams, Tail Twister Sam Williams, Assistant Tail
Twister Billy Holbrook, Lion Tamer Melvin Addison; Directors (2 years) Larry Poole, Ray McKnight,
Ray Richardson; (one year) Marvin South, Billy Hendrix, Hildon Leopard. Vance Cecil from Athens
club was elected 1976-77 district governor. Toccoa Lions nominated Lion Loyd Prewett for District
Governor of 18- D, July 19, 1976. Ladies Night Christmas Party at Clemson House, Dec. 14, featuring
program by the "Four Reasons," the Past District Governors W.J. "Dub" Andrews 1947-48; Willard
Kimsey 1958-59; Joe Hutcherson 1967-68; and Irving Hellenga 1971-72. Deputy District Governor
Loyd Prewett assisted the reorganization of Ila club, and was assisted by Toccoa Lions Ray
Richardson, Don Gathany, and M.C. Stowe. Charles Lewallen reported candy sales brought a profit
exceeding $600. Members added in 1976 were James T. Irvin, Peter A. Miccoli, E.T. Atkinson, Kytle
J. Oliver, Edward R. Voyles, Howard B. Whitaker, Burchel L. Addison, Larry W. King, Albert Huber,
John Anderson transferring from Dothan club from 11-74, P.M. Ross Jr., Johnnie Williams Jr., Danny
Mabiy, Herb Ellis, Bruce CKelly, and Lawson Vann transferring from Cordele club from 7-73.
Removed from the roll in 1976 were Melvin Addison, Dr. Kenneth M. Cleveland, Mack W. Oliver Jr.,
Joe Garner Wildson, Ronald G. Barton, John D. Powell, Rondal Kenneth Jackson, Leon L. Addison,
Dr. Kenneth G. Schneider, Jack D. Moore, Curtiss L. Todd, and Danny Mabiy.
1977
Lillard Gibbs, assistant Principal at EastanoUee School, was chosen president of Toccoa Lions.
Zone Chair Lamar Davis organized Lions to meet at Town Plaza to go to the Second Zone Meeting at
Swamp Guinea in Hartwell, Jan. 11. The Third Zone Meeting was held March 3 at Martin Community
Center. Local physician Dr. Charles A. Meadows spoke Jan. 25 on "Some Aspects of Sight." Calvin
Forrester, MCal From Kildeer Cove," provided entertainment at the Valentine party at Sheraton Motor
Inn, Feb. 8.

Lioness club -officers for 1977 were President Beverly Ross, Vice- President Susan Irvin, Secretary
Jimmie Brown, Treasurer Sherry Voyles, and Directors Betty Poole, Emily Cash, and Aileen Prewitt.
Meetings were first Tuesdays at Citizens Bank. The Lioness charter and installation night was held
April 5, 1977 at the Western Steer. Callaway Professor of Economics at North Georgia College, John
F. Pearce, spoke at the March 22 meeting at Sheraton Motor Inn. The second annual White Cane Day
was observed April 2, 1977 with collections at the Mall, Big A Shopping Center, and the Town Plaza.
Toccoa Lions attended the Victory Home meeting April 12, for rehabilitating alcoholics. First Vice-
President L. H. Hitchcock from Lavonia Lions club spoke on military intelligence to Toccoa Lions,
April 26. Officers for 1977-78 were installed May 24 by Dist. Gov. Vance Cecil (Lioness Wilma
attending) at Sheraton Motor Inn, as follows: President Lillard Gibbs, First Vice-President Don
Gathany, Second Vice-President Claude Smith; Third Vice-President Jerry Carroll; Secretary Larry
King, Treasurer Ronald Green; Chaplain M.C. Stowe, Tail Twister Ray Richardson and assistant Ed
Voyles, Lion Tamer Harold Atkinson, and Directors Melvin Addison, James Irvin, Mike Ross. John
Anderson, and Horace Luther. Ken Massingale was elected district governor of 18-D for 1977-78.
Toccoa Lions contributed toward flood relief after the dam break and flood of Toccoa Creek across
Toccoa Falls College campus, Nov. 6, 1977. The Christmas program entertainers at Georgia Baptist
Assembly, Dec. 15, were Wallace and Betty Buice, who taught speech and music at Asbury College,
who have appeared on the Tennessee Ernie Ford Show, the Snooky Lanson Show, and Ruth Kent's
Today in Georgia, Received into the club in 1977 were new members Ken Houston, Kenneth R. Huron,
Fred Jeard transferring from Washington in Georgia from 11-73, William Clarence Gregory, Francis
Marion Sisk, William Clary III, John Morgan, Richard Barry Culp, and Elgie R. Hudgins. Dropped
from the club in 1977 were Walton Barnes, W.W. Smith, Raymond A. Neal, Luke Collier, Morris
Fuller, Thomas F. Oxley, Hulon D. Brown, James Larry Poole, W.W. Smith, Wilmer H. Shirley,
Forrest H. Kelly, L. Larry Segars, Peter A. Miccoli, Kytle J. Oliver, Albert Huber Lawson and Vann.

1978
At the 57th Annual Georgia Lions Convention, June 9-11, 1978, at Marietta, Toccoa club won
first place for the Augusta Award for long- term attendance, and first place for the LaGrange Award for
the best monthly bulletin. First Vice-President Don Gathany took charge while President Lillard Gibbs
was in Japan. For the eighth year Toccoa was a 100% Peach Bowl club. The Little League Cook-Out at
Henderson Falls Park was held Aug. 22. Toccoa Lions on World Service Day, Oct. 8, gave gifts to the
Toccoa Nursing Center and the Stephens County Day Care and Training Center. Willard Kimsey
arranged Toccoa's entry in competition at Hartwell, Oct. 8, 1978, for Miss Peach Bowl Princess, won
by Karen Andrews. He directed sale of 100 tickets by Toccoa club to the Peach Bowl. The eleventh
annual peach bowl contested Georgia Tech against Purdue. Dist. Gov. David Sargent visited Toccoa
club, Oct. 24, 1978. Tail Twister Ray McKnight collected $50 Nov. 14, 1978, for Rosa's van to
transport crippled children in Argentina, a project begun by Athens club. Benny Nix gave solos and
Kay Herrin made impersonations at Ladies Night Christmas Party at Clemson House, Dec. 12. Lions,
not businessmen, brought door prizes for ladies. Becoming Toccoa Lions in 1978 were Joseph C.
McMillan, Fred B. Carter, Larry Lee Black, Marvin Emery Smith, and Jeffrey Allyn Harris. Removed
from membership in 1978 were Wayne Payne, Joe Frank Stewart, James H. Moore, Michael Carey,
John L. Quick, Samuel Williams, Charles Thomas McCroskey, Ray E. Richardson, Harold Sorrells,
Edward R. Voyles, P.M. Ross Jr., Bruce OTCelley, Jess Ashley Hayes, and Francis Marion Sisk.
1979
Wayne and Lula Jones provided Gospel Song entertainment at the Valentine Party at Dillard
House, Feb. 13. The club presented an appreciation plaque to Dr. Ralph Reed. The club traveled by
Trailway bus to the annual Victory Home meeting, April 10 with 56 Lions and ladies attending.

Lion William Caiy was chairman of the second annual Hoxie's Great American circus, April 27, 1979.
Among the delegation of 139 Georgia Past District Governors and their ladies who visited PDG
President Jimmy Carter at the state Dining Room in the White House were Joe Hutcherson, Irving and
Myra Hellenga, and Willard and Marian Kimsey. President Carter was presented the Melvin Jones
Fellowship. Dist. Gov. Elect John Pearce inducted 1979-80 officers, May 22: President Claude Smith,
First Vice-President Larry King, Second Vice- President Melvin Addison, Third Vice-President John
Anderson; Secretary Clarence Gregory, Treasurer Joe McMillan; Chaplain John Morgan; Tail Twister
Willard Kimsey and assistant Lillard W. Gibbs; Lion Tamer William C. Clary HI; and Directors Gary
Flicks, Marvin Smith, Ron Green, Junior Norris, Herb Ellis, and Ken Houston (Immediate Past
President Don Gathany.) Gov. Pearce*s official visit was Oct. 23 at Plaza Motor Inn. A chicken
barbecue and auction at the Toccoa National Guard Armory was the new project for 1979. Speakers
included U.S. Congressman Dawson Mathis, July 24, and Stephens County Football Coach and
Athletic Director Charles Green, Aug. 28. Pam Black was Toccoa Lions entry in the Regional Miss
Peach Bowl Princess Contest, held at Plaza Motor Inn; Sept. 30, 1979. Entertainer and soloist Nell
Bennett brought entertainment at the Ladies Night Christmas Party Dec. 11 at Plaza Motor Inn. Doyle
Johnson gave dinner music. New members in 1979 were Paul C. Swords, Dhirubhai K (Sam) Patel,
Ross Leverett, Harvey Weiss, Gary Fricks, Vernon A. Smith, Audie Smith, Johnny Mullinax, and
Stephen D. Acree. Memberships terminated in 1979 were Lions W.F. Button, Jimmy Fulbright,
Timothy P. Key, Jerry Carroll, Burshell L. Addison, Kenneth R. Huron, Richard Barry Culp, Elgie R.
Hudgins, and Fred B. Carter.
1980
Claude Smith from Slacks Auto Parts was elected President of Toccoa Lions Club. Paul Alford,
president Toccoa Falls College, spoke Jan. 8, 1980, on the reconstruction since the 1977 flood.

Toccoa Falls College Librarian Ruth Good thanked the club for Lions contribution of $2,400 toward
new books. Lions from as far away as Texas and Idaho gave toward the Lions contributions to the
college. Dr. Alford wrote: "We are thankful for the arrival of a 36 volume Braille Webster Dictionary"
made possible by Toccoa Lions. Toccoa club was host to Martin club, April 22, 1980, when Methodist
minister W.H. Lewis from Danielsville was speaker. Toccoa Lions shared in the sponsorship of the Top
Five banquet, May 6, when Elliot Wigginton of Foxfire Magazine was speaker. District Governor Elect
Don Hardigree installed club officers, May 27, 1980, for 1980-81. Humorist Sam Goolsby from
Monticello, Georgia, gave entertainment at the Ladies Night Christmas Party, Dec. 9, at Plaza Motor
Inn. Each Lion brought as many gifts as he brought ladies. Lions received into the club in 1980 were
Salim E. Khoury, Peter Curry, Mark J. Dubois, Joe Nichols, John DeSimone, and Michael J. Crozier.
Lions dropped from membership in 1980 were Dan Fulbright, John Morgan, Jeffrey Allyn Harris, Paul
C. Swords, Gary Flicks, Audie Smith, Melvin Emery Smith, Stephen D. Acree, Salim E. Khouiy, and
Peter Curry.
1981
Larry King, Cotton States Insurance, was president of Toccoa Lions Club. Officers installed for
1981-82 were John Anderson, president; Howard Whitaker, secretary; Vernon Smith, treasurer;
Clarence Gregory, First Vice-President; Joe McMillan, Second Vice-President; M.C. Stowe, Third
Vice-President; Junior Norris, chaplain; Willard Kimsey, Tailtwister; Ray McKnight, Lion Tamer; and
Directors Bill Hendrix, Johnny MulHnax, Sam Patel, Harvey Weiss, John Desimone, Bobby Jordan;
and Past President Larry King. District 18-D elected W. Myers Banister from Young Harris as district
governor for 1981-82. The Fifth Annual Covered Dish dinner at Henderson Falls Park was held Aug.
23. Ben Cheek Jr. from Franklin Financial was speaker Sept. 8.

Rose Ann Bowers represented Toccoa Lions at the District 18-D competition for Miss Peach Bowl
Princess Contest at Georgia Mountains Center, Oct. 10, in Gainesville. She is Stephens County Senior,
Valentine Queen in Junior and Senior year, and a member of First Baptist Church. Dist. Gov. Miles
Banister had his official visit, Oct. 13 K.A. McMillan, Lawrenceville, district manager for Georgia
Power Company, and member of the MARTA board, was speaker at Ladies Night Christmas Party at
Georgia Baptist Assembly, Dec. 8. New members inducted into Toccoa lions in 1981 were in January,
Fred M. Griffin; in March, Dennis F. Bellamy and transferring from Jefferson club, H. David Emmett;
in April, James M. Adams; in May, Wayne E. Carpenter and Howard Foster; in August, David E.
Cheek and Kanti Patel; and in October, Lamar Edwin Hallford. Lions dropped in 1981 were Thomas
Myron McClain, Billy Richard Holbrook, E.T. Atkinson, Johnny Williams Jr., Herb Ellis, Ken
Houston, Charles Lewallen, William Clary HI, Dhirubhai K. (Sam) Patel, Ross Leverett, Dennis F.
Bellamy, Kanti Patel in December, and Lamar Edwin Hallford.
1982
John Anderson, cracker salesman, was president of Toccoa Lions Club. District Deputy
Governor Jimmy Johnson and Lion Frank Melton from Elberton were guests Jan. 26. PDG John Pearce
was speaker at the joint Toccoa-Martin meeting, March 23, at Plaza Motor Inn. Tax Consultant Cathy
Leverette was speaker Feb. 9. New members installed by PDG Irving Hellenga, March 9, 1982, were
David Cheek, Kim Kapacee, and Geter Owen Jr. The installation of David Andrews was postponed.
Other members received in 1982 were Peter Vernon, David Andrews, John T. Morgan, David Carroll
(in July), and Willie Keller. Thirty Lions and Ladies attended the annual Lions Victory Home meeting,
April 13. Officers elected for 1982-83 were Clarence Gregory, president; Howard Whitaker, First Vice-
President; Vernon Smith, Second Vice-President; Harvey Weiss, Third Vice-President; Howard Foster,
Secretary; M.C.

Stowe, Treasurer; Willard Kimsey, Tail Twister; Junior Norris, Chaplain; Directors James Adams,
Freddie Griffin, Johnny Mullinax, Billy Hendrix, Sam Patel; and Past President John Anderson. Conny
Shirley from Clarkesville was elected 1982-83 governor of District 18-D. Camp Mikel was the scene of
the Ladies Night Christmas Party, Dec. Dana Whitaker, daughter of Howard and Gladelle Whitaker,
provided a program of Christinas carols on the flute. Members dropped in 1982 were Joseph C.
McMillan, Michael J. Crozier, and Peter Vernon, Fred B. Cooley, Ron Green.
1983
Clarence Gregory, engineer in the Department of Transportation, was president of Toccoa Lions
Club. Roy Gaines was speaker at the July 27th meeting at Plaza Motor Inn. Lion Andy Crawford spoke
July 13 on Liability Insurance. Ed Akin spoke Aug. 24 on his trip to the Middle East. Dist. Gov. Conny
Shirley made his official visit Sept. 14 at Plaza Motor Inn. Officers elected for 1983-84 were President
Howard Whitaker, First Vice-President Vernon Smith, Second Vice-President Harvey Weiss, Third
Vice-President M.C. Stowe, Secretary John Anderson, Treasurer Wayne Carpenter, Chaplain Junior
Norris, Directors John Morgan, Fred Griffin, Johnny Mullinax, James Adams, Lamar Davis, and John
DeSimone. Millard Havener from Athens Lions club was elected 1983-84 District Governor for
District 18-D. International Director John F. Pearce spoke at Quality Motor Inn at the joint meeting
with Martin Lions Club, Sept. 13. Dist. Gov. Millard Havener made his official visit Oct. 11. Lion Ed
Akin reported on his recent trip to England and Scotland Oct. 25. The Ladies Night Christmas Party
was held Dec. 13 at Georgia Baptist Assembly. Members joining in 1983 were Don Pruitt, Charles Paul
Worley (reinstated, Paul Pete Fulbright, Robert Allen Angel, and Freddy H.

1984
Vernon Smith, an executive at WABCO, was president of Toccoa Lions Club. Lion Paxil
Worley spoke on Drug Awareness, Jan. 24. A love offering for Lion Johnny Vickeiy of Hartwell club
was given at the zone meeting. M.C. Stowe reported Toccoa Lions, Jan. 10, gave $44 for lion Vickeiy.
A Valentin^ Party was held Feb. 14 at Gate Cottage, with entertainment by the Toccoa Falls music
department, and Dr. Paul Alford, presidents . Police Chief Tony Bryan spoke at the Feb. 28th meeting
at Quality Motor Inn. Lion Jack Campbell of Clermont club was speaker at the zone meeting, March 29
at Sherino's restaurant. Rev. Claude Smithmier was speaker at the April 24 meeting at Quality Motor
Inn. Officers elected for 1984-85 were Vernon Smith, president; Harvey Weiss, First Vice-President;
M.C. Stowe, Second Vice-President; Wayne Carpenter, Third Vice-President; Lamar Davis, treasurer;
Junior Norris, chaplain; Willard Kimsey, Tailtwister; Willy Keller, Lion Tamer; and Jet Angel,
secretary. ^Directors were James Adams, Marvin South, Pete Pulbright, John Morgan, Fred Griffin,
and Johnny Mullinax. Bob Pinsort from Gainesville was elected governor of District 18-D for 1984-85.
International Director Dr. John Pearce was speaker at the Ladies Night Christmas Party; Dec. 11, at
Georgia Baptist Assembly.
1985
Harvey Weiss, from Patterson Pump, was chosen president of Toccoa lions. Doug
Fullington gave a comedy routine, Dec. 10, at the Christmas Party at Georgia Baptist Assembly,
and advised: Have a positive thought each day. Learn to laugh at yourself once each day. Take a
few minutes each day to make someone feel good. On Jan. 22, 1985 Irene Marsden, director of
Stephens County Head Start, was speaker.

The Old Timers Band performed at the Ladies Night Valentine Party, Feb. 12, 1985, held at Camp
Mikel Conference Center. On Feb. 26, 1985 Lt. Com. Thomas Crawford from the U.S. Navy described
U.S. naval power. , Lions attended the Open House for the Eye Center of Lions of Georgia at Emory
University, March 23, 1985. At the Lions meeting, March 26, 1985, Jeff Davis, director of marketing
for Peach Bowl Association, was speaker. Randy Murray, president Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber
of Commerce, was speaker, July 23, 1985. Officers elected for 1985-86 were Harvey Weiss, president;
Vernon Smith, past president; Wayne Carpenter, secretary; M.C. Stowe, first vice-president; Welton
Carpenter, second vice-president; Lamar Davis, treasurer; Junior Norris, chaplain; Ted Higgenbotham,
tailtwister; John Anderson, Lion Tamer; directors (2) Willie Kellar, Lewis Williams, Paul Worley;
directors (1) Pete Fulbright, James Adams, Marvin South. Elected governor of District 18-D was Dr.
William Bellamy of Dahlonega.
1986
At the Lions meeting, Jan. 14, 1986, Bud Carlin from Norcross spoke on "Diabetes, Drugs, and
Alcohol." On Jan. 28, 1986, Science teacher Judy Alexander from Stephens County Junior high School
described the Lions QUEST course, "Skills for Adolescence. Toccoa and Martin Lions held a joint
barbecue, March 1, 1986, in front of Ace Hardware. Officers elected for 1986-87 were M.C. Stowe,
president; first vice- president, Wayne Carpenter; Welton Carpenter, second vice-president; James
Irvin, third vice-president; Bobby Jordan, secretary; Joe Vaughn, treasurer; Lamar Davis, chaplain;
Junior Norris, tailtwister; Willard Kimsey, Lion Tamer; directors (2) Jimmy Fulbright, Billy Hendrix,
Stephen Tilley; directors (1) Paul Worley, Leis Williams, John Morgan, Immediate past president
Harvey Weiss. Former Toccoa Lion Loyd Prewett was elected district governor of 18-D for 1986-87.

1987
Officers elected for 1987-88 included Wayne Carpenter, president; Jimmy FulbHght, first vicepresident;
Walter Salentine, second vice- president; and LeRoy Swafford, third vice-president. George
Blackburn was elected district governor of 18-D, succeeding Loyd Prewett, who had moved to 1712
Hollow Creek Court, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46804.
1988
Officers elected for 1988-89 included Jimmy Fulbright, Toccoa Tire Company, president;
Walter Salentine, first vice-president; LeRoy Swafford, second vice-president; and Jim Shiirley, third
vice-president. Thois Masters was elected district governor of 18-D. The first annual Lions Rodeo was
held, during a rainy period. Lions were brave in assembling, taking down, and moving the bleachers.
1989
Officers elected for 1989-90 were Walter Salentine, president; LeRoy Swafford, first vicepresident;
Jim Shurley, second vice-president; and Randy Shirley, third vice-president. ' Charles
"Chuck" Wilson was elected district governor of 18-D, succeeding Thois Masters. At the Lions
meeting March 28, 1989, Tommy Turk spoke on Historic Travelers Rest Site, Jarret Manor. Bob
Williams of North Georgia Tech spoke, May 9, 1989, on Georgia Lighthouse. The weekend of June 9-
10 the Second annual Toccoa Lions club rodeo at Boyd field. Jim Bellamy described the Quest
program at the Middle School, Aug. 11. 1989. On Sept. 12, 1989, Bob Pinson spoke on Membership,
Retention, and Development. Ross Willis reported Sept. 22, 1989, on his trip to Russia. Nov. 8, 1989,
Loyd Prewett spoke on the Eye Bank. "Bud" Duckworth was speaker, Nov. 22, 1989, on Leader Dog.
1990
Angie King addressed the club Jan. 9, 1990, on CKPE and the Health Care programs.

At the Lions meeting, Jan. 23, 1990, Ed Gambrell spoke on Medicare, Medicaid, and Indigent Care
programs. The Valentine Party, Feb. 13, 1990, on a cold winter night, was held at Dillard House,
hosted by Lion Randy Shirley. Feb. 27, 1990, Lion Don Hardigree spoke on White Cane Day. District
Governor from Augusta, Johnny W. Bagwell, former FBI narcotics agent, spoke to the club, March 13,
1990. Region Chair M.C. Stowe as District Governor candidate, appointed Zone I Chairman J.R.
Phillips to succeed him at the March 12, 1990 zone meeting at the Old Railroad Depot, hosted by
Royston-Franklin Springs Club. .:.... Lions Andy Crawford and Joe Vaughn reported March 26 on their
recent trip to Israel. Officers elected for 1990-91 were LeRoy Swafford, president; Jim Shurley, first
vice-president; Randy Shirley, second vice-president; Herb Woodall, third vice-president; Carl Panther,
treasurer; Joe Vaughn, secretary; Don Gathany, chaplain; Welton Carpenter, tailtwister; Willie Keller,
Lion Tamer; directors (2) Joey Arencibia, Tim Merritt, Virgil Megill; and (1) Lamar Davis, Carmen
Paeletto, Lewis Gleason. Lion Joe Vaughn was awarded "Lion of the Year." Harold Atkinson was
presented a certificate for meritorious service. At the State Convention Lion M.C Stowe was elected
District Governor of District 18-D, succeeding Charles Wilson. Howard Whitaker was Cabinet
Secretary/Treasurer, and Virgil Megill was district bulletin editor. ; Lion M.C. Stowe was delegate to
the Lions International Convention at St. Louis, MO. Lion Virgil Megill was present the first day
opening the convention. Eric Knox was chosen from the Lion sponsored Little League team to be on
the Toccoa All-Star team. The Third Annual Lions Rodeo was held in Boyd Field. The club
participated in the Harvest Fall Festival. Fire Chief Max Thomas addressed Toccoa Lions, July 10,
1990. Bud Vaughn from Toccoa Natural Gas System, was speaker Aug. 14. City Manager of Toccoa,
Jim Calvin, addressed the club Aug. 28. Sheila Canupp addressed the club as manager of Wilkinson
Center, Sept. 25.

Aaron Wilkinson described the Stephens County Emergency Service, Sept. 11. As the club anticipated
a different location for a Lions Rodeo, Lion Willard Kimsey represented the club as Soil
Conservationist, at the request of Game Warden Eric Wood, to help seed and hand mulch banks of the
road approaching the new fairgrounds on the Toccoa By-pass. Club interest in the by-pass location was
due to uncertainty about use of Boyd Field, and the necessity to have an appropriate permanent
location. In the first rodeo nearly all facilities had to be set up prior to the use of the location. Lions
Willard Kimsey and Joe Vaughn distributed four bushels of apples on World Service Day to the
handicapped training center on Route 106, and the Toccoa Nursing Center. Lion Tim Merritt was chair
of the "Christmas for the Needy" project. Toccoa Lions "Rang the Bell" for the Salvation Army.
Claude McBride, chaplain of the University of Georgia Bulldogs, entertained at the Lions Christmas
party, Dec. 11, 1990.
1991
Projects included White Cane, Broom and Mop Sales, the Rodeo, the Harvest Festival, Ringing
the Bell for the Salvation Army. Educational Partnership Coordinator Duvall reported to the club, Jan*
8, 1991, on the Stephens County Action Community Team (ACT) to relate Parents' Resources Institute
for Drug Education (Pride.) The musical patriotic review, "We Love Our Country," was presented at
the Valentine Party, Feb. 12 at Gate Cottage. At the meeting, Feb. 26, 1991, Charlie Lowery described
the procedure for a 4-L Rodeo. The club contracted for him for a Lions Rodeo, June 14- District Leader
Dog Chair Willard Kimsey described the Leader Dog program to Toccoa club, March 12, 1991. At the
Membership and Retention meeting, March 26, Lion John Taylor told Lions every club in town courted
him, but he felt at home with Lions. He recommended getting younger members. Lion Aubrey
Williams said young men tend to ask, as Jaycees for example, "What can others do for me?" He said he
preferred the more mature view of Lions, "What can I do for others?" Conny Shirley presented the
program, March 26, 1991, on Membership Retention and Development.

Lion Carl Panther in March became a certified eye enucleataor for Eye Enucleation (Tissue Donation.)
Medical Consultants to Toccoa Lions Club, Dr. Ralph Reed and Dr. Jack Harris, have been working
with the Georgia Lions Lighthouse. Dr. Harris cooperated with Dr. Kosarsky from Atlanta in making a
cornea transplant at Stephens County Hospital, the day of the snowstorm, Jan. 24, 1991. Toccoa Lions
Directors approved support of the Stephens County Hall of Fame. They approved the project to have
house numbers painted on driveways in Toccoa. Kerry Courchaine was speaker, May 14, 1991, as vicepresident
of Future Farmers of America. Officers elected for 1991-92 were Jim Shurley, president;
Randy Shirley, first vice-president; Herbert Woodall, second vice-president; Joey Arencibia, third vicepresident;
Joe Vaughn, secretary; Carl Panther, treasurer; Don Gathney, chaplain; Lion Tail Twister,
Welton Carpenter; Lion Tamer, Willie Keller; and directors (2) Frank Edmonds, Roy Deal, Bud
Vaughan; and (1) Tim Merritt, Virgil Megill, Tommy Floyd. Michael Higgins was chosen district
governor of 18-D, succeeding M.C. Stowe. Mayor Randy Murray was speaker July 9, and Police Chief
Lion John Taylor on July 23. In his appreciation for Toccoa, he said, "Toccoa is a strictly kept secret."
Ann Shurley, daughter of Lion Jim Shurley, on Aug. 27, described her experiences in Ethiopia and
other African countries, as program controller of the International Bureau of the Cable News Network.
Lion LeRoy Swafford described, Sept. 10, the developing telecommunications opportunities in the next
20 years. Eye Screening was featured at the Lions booth at the Toccoa Harvest Fall Festival, Oct. 26-
27. Nine Toccoa Lions attended Gov. Zell Miller's Pre-Legislative Forum at Georgia Baptist Assembly,
Nov. 12, 1991. When Lion Tim Merritt's wife needed a lung transplant in at St. Louis hospital, Zone
Chair Harvey Weiss informed Disk Gov. Mike Higgens, who contracted Lions in St. Louis. Missouri
Lions were present to greet her when she arrived for the transplant. Lion Tim Merritt in December
1991 proposed to hold a Steakout in the Spring.

Stephen Gower at the Lions Christmas party, Dec. 10, quoted ideas from his book, The Art of Killing
Kudzu, Management by Encouragement
1992
Tim Merritt explained senior health care at the Jan. 14, 1992 club meeting. At the meeting, Jan. 28,
1992, Bryson Tanner 6poke on the State Awards program. The First United Methodist novelty group,
The Off Beats, performed at the Valentine Party, Feb. 11, 1992. County Commissioner Leonard Griffin
described the expanding water system, Feb. 25. Russ Foster and Judy Wallace from Charter-Winds
Hospital in Athens spoke on drug rehabilitation at the March 10 meeting. On May 12, 1992 a Fish Fry
was held at Henderson Falls Park. The First annual Steakout was held at North Georgia Armory, May
23, 1992. Lion Randy Shirley was elected 1992-93 club president. Joey Arencebia became 1992 Lion
of the Year. Newly elected for 1992-93 were third vice-president Tommy Floyd; directors (2) Aubrey
Williams, Chris Stephens, Virgil Megill; directors (1) Roy Deal, Frank Edmonds, John Taylor. :
President Randy Shirley appointed the 60th Anniversary Celebration committee. Gainesville Lion Don
Wagner was elected district governor of 18-D. Toccoa City Manager, July 28, 1992, described his
recent visit to Russia. Howard Whitaker received the Order of the Golden Chain, as that order received
more emphasis in District 18-D. Howard Whitaker became a Melvin Jones Fellow at Henderson Falls
Park, during Dist. Gov. Don Wagner's official visit, Sept. 22, 1992. At the meeting, Aug. 11, 1992,
Gary Bennett described the Drug Abuse Resistance Education PARE) program. Stephanie Maley
discussed the proposed YMCA in Toccoa, Sept. 8. Bob Evans was speaker Oct. 13; Lawrence
Sutherland on Camp for the Blind, Nov. 10; M.C. Stowe as district chair of Golden Chain, Nov. 25;
and Frank Hayes from Greer, South Carolina, at the Christmas Party, Dec. 8.
1993
Oscar Battle introduced SightFirst, Jan. 12, 1993. Irving Hellenga, Jan. 26, introduced Dr. Marc
S. Coan, who spoke on HDL cholesterol. Dr. Floyd Falany, president of Reinhardt College, was
Valentine Party

speaker, Feb. 9. Ed Mills, newly elected Stephens County Superintendent of Schools, described, Feb.
23, his goals for education in Stephens County. Judge Alton Adams described the Currahee Arts
Council, March 23. PDG Willard Kimsey was 40th Anniversary speaker of Buford club, March 19,
1993. Dist. Gov. Don Wagner described SightFirst, April 27, in third world countries to develop
personal hygiene and prevent eye infection where water is insufficient; distribute vitamin A to prevent
night blindness and other blindness; provide facilities to remove cataracts; and treat streams where
carrier flies breed. On May 8, 1993 the Second Steakout was held at National Guard Armory. A. Lamar
"Buddy" Ouzts was elected 1993-94 district governor of 18- D, succeeding Don Wagner.
Commemorating the club's 60th anniversary, May 11, 1993, International Director Jim Erwin spoke at
the 60th Anniversary dinner at Toccoa Falls College dining room. The attendance was 159. Lions clubs
represented were Winder, Gainesville, Dahlonega, Clermont, Towns County, Peachtree of Atlanta,
LaVista of Atlanta, Comer, Elberton, Cornelia, Martin, Lavonia, Oconee, Union County in District 18-
D; Albany in District 18-C, Atlanta club in District 18-A; and Thomson and Washington in District 18-
F. Jeanne Williams read a tribute to Charter Member Paul Worley. PDG Irving Hellenga presented a
historical review of the club, and led the club in singing "My Country Tis of Thee" accompanied by
Don Gathany. Guests greeting the club included Toccoa Falls President Paul Alford, Stephens County
Commissioner Chairman Leonard Griffin, Mayor James Neal; PID John Pearce who introduced Jim
Ervin; and PID Myers Banister who gave the response. Other guests included District Governor Don
Wagner, Lieutenant Governor Buddy Ouzts, Cabinet Secretary Tom Sexton; Georgia Lions Lighthouse
President Don Hardigree; PDG George Crumbley who was speaker at the club's 45th anniversary; State
Lion Tamer Bill Bross; State Historian Olin Newby; Donald Hix from Winder, formerly from Athens
club that sponsored Toccoa club in 1933; District White Cane Chair Bobby Reynolds; and Oscar and
Margaret Battle. TFC flutist Gabriel Simonfalvi from Budapest, Hungary provided special music
accompanied by David Reese from Toccoa.

Attending the State Convention in Augusta May 28-30 were Randy, Cheryl, and Mandy Shirley;
Willard and Marian Kimsey; Irving and Myra Hellenga; and Virgil and Ruth Megill. Change of officers
for 1993-94 elected were Herbert Woodall, president; third vice-president Aubrey Williams; Claude
Smith, chaplain; directors (2) Myron English, Patrick McVey, Roy Deal; directors (1) Chris Stephens,
LeRoy Swafford, Virgil Megill. Edmonds, Patrick McVey. The Little League Cookout, June 7,
honored the Lions sponsored team, the Red Sox. Players and parents were recognized. The Lions
Fountain at the City Park on East Tugalo Street was dedicated, June 12, 1993. Lion John C. Armstrong
coordinated the project. Mayor James Neal was speaker at the dedication. On June 22 President Randy
Shirley showed the club the plaque to be presented to Armstrong in gratitude for his efforts. Rev.
Claude Smithmier from First United Methodist Church was awarded the Community Service Award,
June 22, 1993. Virgil Megill attended the SightFirst Rally at the Lions International Convention in
Minneapolis, July 6, 1993. Third Vice-President Aubrey Williams directed the first Lions Softball
Tournament at Alewine Park, July 10. Toccoa Lions club hosted the Region I Zone I meeting, July 29,
1993. After attending the meeting, Lions Legal Council from LaVista club announced his candidacy for
vice-governor of District 18-D. Lions attending the USACanada Lions Leadership Forum at Winston-
Salem, North Carolina, Sept. 9-12, 1993, were Joey Arencibia, Randy Shirley, and Virgil Megill.
Speakers were Ray Ward on local native American history, July 13; County Commissioner Brenda
Chapman, July 24; PDG Chuck Wilson on the Lighthouse, Aug. 10; Police Chief Jack Lumpkin, Oct.
12; City Manager Jim Calvin, Oct. 26; City Planner Billy Morris, Nov. 9; and CPA Wayne Lester at the
Christmas Party, Dec. 14. Howard Whitaker initiated the Playhouse project to receive contributions for
the Sight Conservation Committee, between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Mary Ann Davis from
Canon, Georgia, at the drawing, won the playhouse. Willard Kimsey delivered it.
1994
In January the Board of Directors defined options for sale of the Lions mobile home at Shady
Shores, off Bruce Road near the boat landing at

Lake Hartwell waterfront. The home was donated to Toccoa Lions by a former resident, now living in
Washington, D.C. In March Lions were invited to submit sealed bids for the home. A bid was accepted,
and funds of the payment for the mobile home were placed in a reserve account. The policy was
established to make payment to the Lighthouse $1,500 each year until the fund is depleted. During the
official visit of Dist. Gov. Buddy Ouzts, Jan. 25, 1994, he presented the Melvin Jones Fellow award to
PDG M.C. Stowe. Then Ouzts called PDG Don Wagner and Roberta forward, saying, "We are among
friends tonight." In a surprise move he presented the Melvin Jones Fellow award to Roberta Wagner. A
Pancake Breakfast was held March 5, 1994. The cookout for the Little League sponsored Junior
League team was held at Henderson Falls Park, June 14. The club conducted residential mop and
broom sales May 10 and Sept. ~i. Lion Vernon Smith reported for M.C. Stowe, Aug. 24, Industrial
Broom sales totaled $2,859.25. The club had eye screening in the Fall Harvest Festival, Nov. 5-6. Lions
sponsored the second Playhouse project between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Jamie Dillard, 152A
Stephens Drive, won the playhouse. The club "Rang the Bell" for the Salvation Army, Dec. 17, 1994.
Lions gave SightFirst donations channeled through the Lions Clubs International Foundation, by the
Feb. 28, 1994 deadline. The Board of Directors recommended Melvin Jones Fellows to be designated
from SightFirst funds. M.C. Stowe became a Melvin Jones Fellow in 1993 and Irving Hellenga and Joe
Hutcherson, April 12, 1994. PDG Millard Havener from Athens club made the presentations. The club
presented to Dr. Ralph Reed, June 28, 1994, the third annual Community Service Award plaque, and to
Robert Pernell Mayfield the club's $500 Lions Stephens County High School Scholarship award. From
Toccoa attending the State Convention at Savannah, May 27-29, 1994, were Howard Whitaker; Randy,
Cheryl, Mandy Shirley; M.C. and Amelia Stowe; and Virgil and Ruth Megill. Dist. Gov. Elect Oscar
Battle, June 28, installed 1994-95 officers: Joey Arencibia, President; First Vice-President, Tommy
Floyd; Second Vice- President, Chris Stephens; Third Vice-President, Virgil Megill; Chaplain Claude
Smith; Tail Twister Welton Carpenter; Lion Tamer Harold Atkinson; Directors (2) Wayne Carpenter,
Irving Hellenga, Doug Scott; Directors (1) LeRoy Swafford, Steve Watson, Clarence Gregory.

Third Vice-President Virgil Megill directed the second lions Softball Tournament at Alewine Park, July
9, 1994. Attending the Lions International Convention in Phoenix, July 12-15, 1994, were M.C. and
Amelia Stowe and Virgil and Ruth MegilL The club supported the candidacy of Howard Whitaker for
District Vice-Governor for 1995-96. The resolution was passed and adopted Aug. 22, 1994. Steve
Watson coordinated Lions who accompanied Lion Howard or who provided transportation as he visited
clubs in District 18- D and the zone meetings. At club meetings Vice-President Camp for the Blind was
speaker, Jan. 11, 1994. District Governor Buddy Ouzts made his official visit, Jan. 25, 1994. Greg
Smith, pastor Grace Baptist Church, was speaker at the Valentine banquet, Feb. 8, 1994. John
Wilkinson, son-in-law of Lion Andy Crawford, at the Feb. 22 meeting, described the outreach of
Future Farmers of America that enrolls 10,000 youth in Georgia- Secretary Joe Vaughn reported March
8 on his recent trip to Israel. Dr. Robert Thompson from Toccoa Clinic on March 22 showed slides of
his recent trip to Russia. Irving Hellehga was speaker, April 12, when he and PDG Joe Hutcherson
received the Melvin Jones award. The speaker, April 26, was Bruce Hoppers, executive "director of
Georgia Region II Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse. Zone Leader Randy
Shirley spoke on drug abuse, May 24. Governor Elect Oscar Battle installed 1994-95 club officers,
June 28. Ben Purcell, July 11, retraced his experience in Viet Nam as a Prisoner of War. Stephens
County School Board member Bill Shaw, a member of the Georgia legislature, on July 26 described his
career with the Buffalo bills, and spoke of his teammate O.J. Simpson. ' lion Steve Watson was
speaker, Aug. 9, 1994, as Chief Appraiser for the Stephens County Board of Assessors. District Vice-
Gov. Jim Panter represented Gov. Oscar Battle for his official visit, Aug. 23. Clay Fisher addressed the
club, Oct. 11, on the United Way of Stephens County, and Julie Lester on Foot Hills United Way,
District Chair Dr. Sam Vickery outlined, Nov. 8, Diabetes Awareness. Council of Governors Chair
Buddy Ouzts spoke, Nov. 22, on 18-D redistricting, and the James E. Ervin campaign for International
Third Vice-President. Mark Kimsey impersonated Mark Twain at the Christmas party, Dec. 13, 1994.
1995
President Joey Arencibia arranged a Friends Night, Jan. 24, 1995 for prospective members. Lion Irving
Hellenga reviewed the history of

Lionism. Chris Stephens described the Camp for the Blind. Willard Kimsey described Leader Dog. Joe
Vaughn explained the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation. The Steakout was held in the North
Georgia Armory, May 20, 1995. Residential Mop and Broom Sales were held May 9 and Sept. 26. Mop
and Broom sales at store entrances, Saturday, Sept. 30, totaled $1455.00. Industrial broom sales were
conducted throughout the summer. The total Industrial Sales by September 1995 totaled $4,026.00.
Lion Jim Shurley conducted the 1996 Calendar project, coordinated birthdays and anniversaries from
orders given to Lions. He distributed the 1996 calendars to the Lions in November for delivery to
customers. The Lions Softball Tournament was canceled because of conflicts with other tournaments
on the day scheduled for the Lions Tournament. Lion Eddie Seay was in charge of the Softball
tournament project. The club invited city and county officials, May 23, 1995, to discuss recreational
facilities to heal the breach between the two jurisdictions, to prevent duplication of facilities, and to
work toward a unified recreational program for city and county. Guests were Ed Thomas from The
Chieftain, Angeline Willard from The Toccoa Record, Mayor of Toccoa Lee Bowen, Toccoa City
Manager Bill Lewis, Stephens County Commissioner Sam Sosby, Stephens County Commissioner
Brenda Chapman; Allen Khisner; Jack Stovall; Duane Gooding; Dan Rickman; George Hosea; Ted
Carpenter; and Dale Johnson. In a "Meet the Candidates" forum, Oct. 24, 1995, the club, coordinated
by Lion Roger Herrick, brought together Mayor lion Lee Bowen, Ferrell Morgan, Winnie Zeches, and
John Fowler. Each outlined personal positions, stressed goals, and suggested procedures to meet the
goals. The candidates spoke to clarify themselves before the election of Nov. 7, 1995. Lions Willard
Kimsey and Vernon Smith visited and gave apples to guests of the Stephens County Rehabilitation
Center, the Toccoa Nursing Center, and the Wilkinson and Clary Centers at Stephens County Hospital
complex. Speakers at Toccoa Lions club at Gate Cottage on the Toccoa Falls Campus were Bobby
Reynolds on the Georgia Lions Lighthouse, Jan. 10, 1995; Joe Hirsch on Youth Outreach, Feb. 28;
Leon Gathany on natural life in Alaska, March 14; City Manager Bill Lewis, March 28; Joe Vaughn,

April 11, on his most recent trip to Israel; Tiffany Kerst, April 25, on 'The Sacred Art of Russia from
Ivan the Terrible to Peter the Great," on display in Georgia; Stephens County Board of Education
Chairman Joe Ferguson, July 11; Dist. Gov. Jim Panter in his official visit, Aug. 8; Chamber of
Commerce chairman, Bob Evans, Aug. 22; Leader Dog Chair Ed Hashbarger, Oct. 10; and Emory
Lions Children's Eye Care Center vice-president Bill Bellamy, Nov. 14. t The club was well
represented at the Third Cabinet Meeting, March 12, 1995, in Watkinsville, when Conny Shirley
nominated Howard Whitaker for District Vice-Governor. Lion Jim Shurley seconded the nomination.
Balloting resulted in a defeat for Whitaker by four votes, and Lion Norm Masters from Snellville was
elected Vice-Governor for 1995-96. * -> At the Valentine Party, Feb. 14, 1995, Glen and Johnny Ray
from Gainesville gave music of the '50s through the '70s. Ruth Megill provided heart shaped sachets
bringing their pleasant aroma for table decorations. The James Thompson Singers provided special
music for the Lions Christmas Party, Dec. 12, at Georgia Baptist Assembly. As a part of Christmas
decorations, Ruth Megill provided crocheted angels at each place setting. Members received into the
club in 1995 were Lee Bowen and Nick Thomas.
1996
District Camp for the Blind Vice-President, Tom Sexton, addressed the club, Jan. 9, 1996.
Toccoa Lions presented Friends Night, Jan. 23, 1996. Past District Governor Willard Kimsey
conducted a lively Tail Twisting session. Sight Conservation Chair Ed Akin reported on eye
examinations and eyeglasses provided by the club since records were kept in 1978. Former Lion Lonzo
Smith thanked the club for providing telescopic lens for his eyes. Nick Thomas explained steps to learn
to direct and follow a Leader Dog. Second Vice-President Steve Watson reported Lions projects
throughout the year. Immediate Past President Joey Arencibia explained service of Lions to
Underprivileged nations, and his own experience in Central America for three summers. Third Vice-
President Eddie Seay explained Lions Objects, and President Chris Stephens read the Lions Code of
Ethics. Guests included Patrick Neal, Aubrey Grafton, John Merck, Lonzo Smith, Danny Morrow,
Brenda Chapman, Jonnsey Haygood, Bob Troup, Bobby Slate, Bob Evans, Russell Paxton, and Jess
Ellington.

Members received into the club in 1996 were Kay Royal, sponsored by Irving Hellenga, and Russell
Paxton, sponsored by M.C. Stowe. Bob and Melody Thomason entertained lions at the Valentine Party,
Feb. 13, 1996, at Fernside Restaurant in Lavonia. Third Vice-President Eddie Seay presided. The
Thomasons from Helen presented Appalachian music on the Dulcimer and Guitar. Conny Tabor
presented Main Street Proposals to Lions, Feb. 27. District White Cane Chair Dan Stuart spoke of the
outreach of the Lighthouse. County Commissioner Brenda Chapman told of county responsibilities,
March 12. President Chris Stephens in March delivered to the Lighthouse 164 pairs of eyeglasses, 65
cases, 23 loose lenses, and one pair sports glasses. Zone Leader Robert Stovall from Martin club,
addressed Toccoa club, March 26, 1996. President Chris Stephens gave Chevron Awards to Andy
Crawford for 50 years, and to Willard Kimsey and Wayne Carpenter for 45 years. He acknowledged 20
year Chevrons to Howard Whitaker and James Irvin. At the White Cane Day newer Lions Russell
Paxton, Nick Thomas, and Kay Royal at Quality Foods were among those who collected donations,
April 13. LaVerne F. Boucher, District Chair of Canine Companions for Independence, from Norcross
Lions club, addressed the club, April 9. United States Postal Officials, Cindy Benfield and Brett
Franklin from the Toccoa Post Office, addressed Toccoa Lions, April 23. Toccoa lions held their Mop
and Broom Sale May 14. In place of the Steakout for the past three years a Pancake Breakfast was held
May 18 at the old Toccoa Elementary School cafeteria. George Hosea, chief registrar of Stephens
County, addressed Toccoa Lions at Gate Cottage, May 28, 1996. PDG Irving Hellenga presented the
Resolutions Report to the Lions State Convention, May 26, at Hapeville, May 24-26, 1996. Toccoa
attendants at the Lions State Convention were: Irving and Myra Hellenga, M.C. and Amelia Stowe, and
Virgil and Ruth Megill. Lion Hellenga at the May 28, 1996, club meeting, reported on he 1996 State
Lions Convention. He said Toccoa club entered four Cup Award applications

District Governor Elect Norman Masters installed 1996-97 officers at the June llr 1996, club meeting:
President Virgil Megill; First Vice- President Steve Watson; Second Vice-President Eddie Seay; Third
Vice- President John Armstrong; Secretary Joe Vaughn; Treasurer Ray Cornell; Chaplain M.C. Stowe;:
Lion Tail Twister Chris Stephens; lion Tamer Harold Atkinson; Parliamentarian Willard Kimsey;
Directors (2) Andy Crawford and Kay Royal; Directors (1) Charles McCroskey and Doug Scott.
President Chris Stephens presented the Lion of the Year Award to Lion Tamer Harold Atkinson.
Attending the District Training Session at Gainesville Civic Center, June 23, 1996, were Zone Chair
Wayne Carpenter, Third Vice-President John Armstrong, and President Virgil Megill. The club Little
League Cookout at Henderson Falls Park was held June 25,1996. Second Vice-President Eddie Seay
presided at the July 9, 1996 club meeting at the 'Hand in Hand" Hospice program. Ruth Payton traced
the history of the program begun in 1985 at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center. She described aid
and instruction to family members, covering physical therapy* occupational therapy, speech, "I.V.
infusion," pediatric care, and psychological care. She presented a video of case scenarios. Replacing
Fred Rogers unable to attend, Teresa Warren from Dahlonega, who coordinators the Hand in Hand
Hospice for a 13 country area, explained encouragement given to the bereaving, and therapy to family
members, designed for an environment as natural as possible, free from pumps and tubes. At the Lions
International Convention in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, July 9-12, 1996, Past International Director
Jim Ervin, from Albany, Georgia, speaker at Toccoa Lions 60th Anniversary banquet in 1993, was
elected Third Vice-President. M.C. and Amelia Stowe, and Virgil and Ruth MegUl were among the
attendees, and attended the Georgia breakfasts and Ervin Victory celebration. Lion Virgil was a
marching member of the Georgia delegation in the Lions International Parade through the streets of
Montreal, and a participant in the two Georgia demonstrations at the convention floor. Jimmy Carter
received the Lions Humanitarian Award. . Toccoa Lions were guests of Camp Toccoa, July 25, 1996.
As Lions entered the campgrounds, Camp Director Sue Edwards designated a parking place for each
car. A personally assigned camper met each Lion, provided a name tag, and escorted the Lion to the
various meeting places

for the evening: to the flag ceremony, the dining hall, and to the assembly room for the talent show
presented by campers. Lion Andy Crawford introduced Board of Directors Member Sherry Lewis,
Mary Hunt in charge of Camp Toccoa facilities, and Karen Sullivan, executive director of Campflre
Boys and Girls, Atlanta Council. Lions participated in voluntary service during the 1996 Atlanta
Olympics and Paralympics. Secretary Joe Vaughn was a volunteer in the security tent at the water
Olympics held at Lake Lanier. Dist. Gov. Norman Masters in his official visit to Toccoa, Aug. 13,
1996, challenged Lions "to build bridges* to foster understanding and cooperation. At the August 27,
1996 club meeting, Stephens County Manager Clifford Wilkinson likened government to water skiing,
as he held a ski board to illustrate. First Vice-President Steve Watson introduced Wilkinson. Christine
Faas from Decatur attended the Aug. 27th club meeting, as program manager for the Lighthouse
Mobile Clinic, and supervisor of its daily schedule. With Christine was Trainee Volunteer Amber
Cracker, from the Stephens County Board of Health. Lion Ed Akin reported on aspects of the mobile
unit's work in Toccoa. Sight Conservation Chair Ed Akin coordinated club preparation and
participation with the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Mobile Unit at the Big A Shopping Center in Toccoa,
August 20-23 and 27-30. Karen Palmer, head nurse at Stephens County Board of Health, arranged 154
advanced appointments from Stephens country for three and one-half days. Toccoa Lions telephoned
persons on the appointment list the day before, to insure that each person would be present. Some
walk-ins also received examinations and glasses. Karen Palmer consulted the Boards of Health of
Banks, Franklin, Hart, Habersham, and Rabun counties to fill the schedule for the remaining four and
one-half days. More than 225 persons who had examinations at the mobile unit received eyeglasses.
Toccoa Lions and Lioness donated more than 150 hours of volunteer time at the Lighthouse Mobile
Eye Clinic. At the Lighthouse Mobile Clinic, Toccoa Lions met applicants as they entered, confirmed
appointments, received their medical and economic records prepared by the Board of Health, and
arranged their order in the mobile clinic for their examinations. Amber Crocker, trainee volunteer of
Stephens County Board of Health, gave eye basic refractive eye and glaucoma screening of the
applicants,

entered into the computer the results of the tests she took, along with each person's previous medical
record., and submitted these to the optometrist to prepare glasses. Dr. A.D. Kelly received these
reports, gave further personal eye examinations, and prepared prescriptions. He typed the prescriptions,
that indicated whether no glasses were required, whether glasses, were needed for distance, for reading,
or for both in bifocals. Lions processed his computer printout in the rear of the mobile unit. For
distance and reading glasses, Lions alerted Christine Faas to place the lenses in the frames the applicant
chose. If the applicant needed bifocals, Lions filled out the applicant's order of frames to accompany
the prescription, for the Lighthouse in Decatur to fill, and to mail to the applicant within two weeks. ^T
Toccoa Lions Fall and Mop Sale was held Sept. 10, 1996 District Leo and Youth Outreach Chair Don
Painter challenged Toccoa Lions Sept. 14, 1996, to develop a positive youth outreach in any number or
ways, as in Leo clubs, scholarship programs, sponsoring scouting, promoting Quest and drug abuse
programs, sponsoring Little League teams, or volunteering for the Special Olympics. Dressed as a
clown, he first entertained club members with beeper noises as he touched various Lions, and as he
dramatized various scratching motions while M.C. Stowe read The Unscratchable Itch.* .Lonnie
Edenfield, president Toccoa Stephens County Chamber of Commerce, and executive director Stephens
County Development Authority, addressed the club, Oct. 8, 1996. He cited advantages Stephens
County has in utilities and planning to extend its services into neighboring counties, and to effect a
regional economic expansion. Lion Irving Hellenga and Myra, Oct. 22, 1996, showed slides and
explained sites of classical Greece and Biblical importance from their recent trip to Turkey. They gave
tributes to their Islamic guides, and noticed a "reserved openness* in the tensions between Western and
Islamic culture, and attitudes toward Christians and Jews. At the Nov. 12, 1996 meeting, Past
International Director John Pearce outlined "Principle-Centered Leadership* based on Stephen Covey's
recommendations. Lion John C. Armstrong traced his military experience to Toccoa Lions at the Nov.
28, 1996 meeting. . Zone Leader Wayne Carpenter presided at Region I Zone I meetings, Aug. 22,
1996, at Fernside Restaurant in Lavonia; at Roystonian ^-_Vｻ '.+ ill^i

Restaurant in Royston, Nov. 21; and Jan. 27, 1997, at Ila Restaurant in Ha. Clubs gave reports, Aug.
22. Past District Governor Willard Kimsey on Nov. 21 challenged Lions to improve communication.
District Librarian Robert Robinson encouraged positive action. Vice-Governor Dan Stuart described
current trends in Lionism. PDG Irving Hellenga on Jan. 27 reported as Resolutions Chair of District 18-
D. The Joyful Hearts musical group presented the Lions Christmas program at Gate Cottage, Dec. 10,
1996.
1997
Hayden Drewry addressed Toccoa Lions, Jan. 14, 1997, as director of the Toccoa-Stephens
County YMCA. Dr. Ralph Reed, a consultant to Toccoa Lions Club, at the Jan. 28, 1997 meeting,
described corrective measures to correct deteriorating vision, and praised precision surgery. Third
Vice-President John C. Armstrong presided at the Lions Valentine Party, Feb. 11, 1997. Toccoa Lions
furnished their own entertainment under the supervision of Lion Andy Crawford. Lion Armstrong
introduced the TLC Singers, for Tender Loving Care,* on this occasion, "Toccoa Lions Club."
Members of the singing group were Welton Carpenter, Ray Cornell, Andy Crawford, Irving Hellenga,
Virgil Megill, and Vernon Smith. The six sang "Love's Old Sweet Song,* and "My Wild Irish Rose."
Andy Crawford and Virgil Megill sang "Let Me Call You Sweetheart." Soloist Ray Cornell sang,
*Youll Never Walk Alone," from the Broadway show of Rodgers and Hammerstein, "Carousal." Ruth
Megill was accompanist. Virgil and Ruth Megill attended the Camp for the Blind Meeting at Warner
Robins, Feb. 2. Randy and Cheryl Shirley, and Virgil and Ruth Megill attended the Lighthouse
Meeting at Macon, Feb. 16, and gave 212 eyeglasses and other aids. Andy Crawford introduced Kim
Hugeness, Feb. 25, 1997, as speaker from the Stephens County unit of the American Heart Association.
She introduced Dr. Judith Lewis and Terry Chapman. Dr. Lewis showed slides and explained
contributing factors leading toward heart attacks. Zone Chair Wayne Carpenter on Feb. 25, 1997,
inducted Dan Minyard into Toccoa Lions. District Chair Recording for the Blind Dr. James B. Weaver,
Jr., to Toccoa Lions, March 11, 1997, described the role of the Georgia Unit in the national network of
Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic (RFBC.)

Governor-Elect, Vice-Governor Daniel W. Stuart from Watkinsville. March 25, 1997, outlined to the
club the potential of White Cane donations for the Lighthouse, and Membership emphases for the
Lions in District 18-D. , Twenty-eight Lions participated in the Pancake Breakfast at the new Toccoa
Elementary School cafeteria, March 29, 1997. Receipts were $2,016; expenses $574.46; and profit
$1,441.54 - Martin Lions President Jimmy Shore spoke to the club, April 8, 1997, and recounted
projects of Martin Lions Club. Martin Lions President Jimmy Shore, April 8, 1997, inducted Ruth
Megill into Toccoa Lions Club. ^ Mayor Lion Claude Smith proclaimed the action of the City
Commission, March 24, 1997, that Toccoa White Cane Day would be April 12, 1997. Toccoa lions
received White Cane donations Friday and Saturday, April 11-12, at Ingles, Wal-Mart, and Quality
Foods, totaling $940.47. The club voted April 22, 1997, to send $1,000 to the Georgia Lions
Lighthouse for White Cane. District Information Chair PDG Willard Kimsey at the April 22, 1997
meeting, reviewed proposed club committees for next year. Principal James Bellamy of Stephens
County Middle School agreed to permit Toccoa Lions to sponsor the 1997 Peace Poster contest in his
school in the Fall. The Auditing Committee audited financial records for incoming Treasurer Ray
Cornell, succeeding Carl Panther. The Budget Committee reinvested expiring certificates of deposit at
a higher rate of interest at Franklin Financial. Community Betterment Chair John C. Armstrong, PDG
Willard Kimsey, and President Virgil Megill planted two flowering crabapple trees near the Lions
Fountain in the City Park opposite Toccoa Clinic, April 21, 1997. The remaining eight trees were given
to the City of Toccoa to be located in the master plan of Conny Tabor, in charge of Toccoa's
Beautification project. Connie Tabor was present at the planting in the City Park. Jennifer Cathy,
anchor for TV Channel 32 News, took pictures of the planting, and broadcast them in the 6:00 News
that day. Lamar Ramey from Radio WNEG took actualities at the tree planting that were broadcast on
both April 21 and April 22.

Toccoa Lions Junior League Baseball team began its Spring schedule, Monday April 28, 1997, with a
game at Royston Nine games were scheduled for May 1997, and two games in June, to conclude June
9. All of these games were all Toccoa, except May 26 in Hartwell, and May 27 in Lavonia. The club's
Cookout, scheduled at Henderson Falls Park for June 10, honors team players, manager, coaches,
parents, and their families. President Virgil Megill and his wife Ruth were invited to the Civic Night
ceremonies of Toccoa Pilot Club, April 28, 1997, at Georgia Baptist Assembly. , At the annual
recognition program of the Toccoa Salvation Army at Gate Cottage, April 29, President Megill
received a certificate of appreciation for Toccoa Lions for "Ringing the Bell* during the 1996
Christmas season. President Virgil and Ruth Megill and First Vice-President Willard and Marian
Kimsey attended the Fourth District Cabinet Meeting, May 4, 1997, at Clermont-North Hall
Clubhouse. The club gave to Lighthouse Vice-President Conny Shirley for the Georgia Lions
Lighthouse, 398 eyeglasses, 31 frames, 168 lenses, and 190 cases. On May 10, 1997 Virgil and Ruth
Megill and M.C. and Amelia Stowe attended the benefit dinner for the Jim Ervin Fund, held at the
North Hall Lions Clubhouse. The club voted to go as a body to the Top Five Banquet, as recommended
by Education Chair Ed Akin, which was held May 13, 1997, at Georgia Baptist Assembly. Attending
the 1997 Georgia State Lions Convention, May 24-25, at Macon, were Irving and Myra Hellenga, M.C.
and Amelia Stowe, and Virgil and Ruth Megill. lion Hellenga submitted eight entries for consideration
by the Awards Committee. The Spring Residential Mop and Broom Sale was scheduled May 27, 1997,
but because of rain Lions took quantities of brooms and mops to sell in their own areas in their own
time. At a Cookout, June 10, 1997, on Family Night at Henderson Falls Park the club honored the
Lions Baseball Junior team in the Little League, their coach and manager, their parents and family
members. The team marched at Turner Field in the intermission of a Braves game, June 1, 1997,
carrying a Lions banner made by Lion Eddie Seay. District Governor Elect Daniel W. Stuart installed
officers for 1997-98, at Gate Cottage, June 24, 1997. The officers were President, Willard

Kimsey; First Vice-President, Wayne Carpenter; Second Vice-President, John Armstrong; Secretary,
Joe Vaughn; Treasurer, Ray Cornell; Tail Twister, Welton Carpenter; Lion Tamer, Harold Atkinson;
Chaplain, Irving Hellenga; Parliamentarian, M.C. Stowe; Immediate Past President, Virgil Megill;
Directors (2 years), Chris Stephens, Kay Royal, Russell Paxton; Directors (1 year) Doug Scott, Andy
Crawford, Charles McCroskey, and Nick Thomas (added later.) Ed Akin was named Lion of the Year
1996-97, Lions Virgil and Ruth Megill attended the Lions International Convention at Philadelphia,
June 30 July 5, in Philadelphia. Stephens County Commissioner Brenda Chapman outlined goals of the
county at the July 8, 1997 club meeting. lion Mayor Claude Smith reported for the City of Toccoa at
the Tuesday, July 22, 1997 meeting. He announced he deadline for the city and county to consolidate
services and or governments by January 1. 1999, to retain state funding for both county and city
projects. Toccoa lions attended the 40th Anniversary of Martin Lions club, July 31, held at Martin's
Community Center. President Willard Kimsey was one the tail twisters, sharing the limelight with
Martin Tail Twister Emit Dupree. Sara Ann Butler spoke on "Swallowing Problems* at the August 12,
1997 meeting at Gate Cottage. Ruth Payton described the Hand in Hand outreach, August 26, 1997, at
the dub meeting. District Governor Dan Stuart shared his goals for 1997-98 at his official visit to the
club, Sept. 23, 1997. Wayne Haines spoke on Habitat for Humanity at the club meeting, Oct. 14. 1997.
Conny Shirley was speaker at the Fish Fry held at Henderson Falls Park, Oct. 28, 1997. He described
the work of the Georgia Lions lighthouse. Amy Dubis, daughter of Welton Carpenter, presented the
program about Smithgall Wood, Nov. 11, 1997. She replaced Gretchen Strohe, who was scheduled to
come. District Vice-Governor Tom Sexton described the work of the Department of Transportation to
the Lions, Nov. 25, 1997. He shared his experience with the Camp for the Blind and other aspects of
Lionism,

Virgil Megill and Andy Crawford attended the funeral of Howard Whitaker in Eatonton, Dec. 3, 1997.
Harold Atkinson coordinated the Christmas for the Needy project for the club. Wayne Carpenter, Kay
Royal, and Ruth Megill were in charge of the Christmas Party. Lion Kay secured Stockton House in
Clayton as the meeting place. Lion Welton Carpenter entertained the club in his review of attending the
Zone Meeting in Royston.
1998
The winner of the Lions Peace Poster contest at Stephens County Middle School, Ashley
Stargel, was given a $25.00 check and certificate, at the club meeting, Jan. 27, 1998. Other sixth
graders who submitted peace poster entries were Brittany Laird, Angel Phillips, Toni Algieri, Katrina
Robertson, Chris Yearwood, Catessa Fortson, Brittany Lothridge, Hilda Peppers, Christopher
Townsend, and William Woodruff. - The posters were on display for a week at the Stephens County
Library. * Jodi Ramsey gave her award winning address on "Patriotism* at the Jan. 27, 1998 meeting.
Lion Kay Royal arranged for the Lighthouse to furnish 800 eyeglasses for the mission trip to Mexico.
Consultant to the club, Ophthalmologist Dr. Jack A. Harris, a member of the mission trip to Mexico,
prescribed glasses to those in need. A commitment service was held Feb. 8, 1998, at Toccoa First
United Methodist Church, for the team of 22 persons who made up the mission trip. Emily Cash and
JerreU Beatty entrained the club at its Valentine Party, Feb. 10,1998. The club Pancake Breakfast was
held Feb. 28, 1998 at the Toccoa Elementary School cafeteria. Ophthalmologist Jack A. Harris asked to
be relieved as a Consultant to Toccoa Lions. Lion Kay Royal, an optometrist at Family Eye Care
Center, became a regular Consultant, and prepared her first report to the March 1998 issue of The Roar
of Toccoa Lions Lion Irving and Myra Hellenga reported on their trip to China, at the meeting, March
24, 1998.

The club collected $1,057 for White Cane, April 10-11, the largest every collected for the White Cane
contributions to the Georgia Lions Lighthouse. Wayne Carpenter reported for the club at the Zone
meeting, March 30, at Ila Restaurant. Marie Morse, director of publicity for the City of Toccoa, April
14, 1998, described the city services, including the Drug Awareness Resistance Education PARE),
Bike Safety, Shop-Lifting Seminars, Earth Day, and the Main Street program of the city. She said the
city sponsors a safe area for children to go Trick or Treat. Lion Larry Smallwood from Forsyth County
Club addressed Toccoa club as district chair for Leo and Youth Outreach, April 27, 1998. President
Willard Kimsey welcomed Christopher Epps. President Kimsey read a letter of thanks from a family
assisted by the 1997 Christmas for the Needy Fund. Attending the Fourth Cabinet Meeting, May 3,
1998, at Oconee Primary school in Watkinsville, were Willard and Marian Kimsey, M.C. Stowe, and
Virgil and Ruth Megill. President Kimsey brought 50 District Cookbooks that benefit the Jim Ervin
Fund, to be sold by Toccoa Lions. Lions attended the Top Five Banquet, May 5,1998, at Georgia
Baptist Assembly, to register their support of the top five percent scholastically at Stephens County
High School, in place of the first meeting of the month at Gate Cottage, Lions met for the Residential
Mop and Broom Sale, May 27, 1998, but because of weather postponed delivery door-to-door. District
Governor-Elect Tom Sexton installed 1998-99 officers, at the June 9th meeting. Officers installed were
President, Wayne Carpenter, Secretary, Joe Vaughn; Treasurer, Ray Cornell. First Vice-President,
Russell Paxton; Second Vice-President, Kay Royal; Third Vice-President, Andy Crawford; Tail
Twister, Welton Carpenter, Chaplain, Irving Hellenga, Lon Tamer, Harold Atkinson. Directors were: (2
yrs.) Ruth Megill, Clarence Gregory, Claude Smith; (1 Yr.) Dan Minyard, Charles McCroskey,
Nicholas Thomas; Parliamentarian, M.C. Stowe; Editor The Roar, Virgil Megill. The Little League
Cookout was held at Henderson Falls Park at 7:00 p.m., June 23, 1998. Dr. Don Pittard at the August
11, 1998 meeting described the Spring Medical Mission to Mexico by 40 volunteers from Toccoa. Of
the patients

treated, 777 were with medical problems, 158 by the dentist, and 288 receiving eye examinations and
being fitted with eyeglasses. Dr. Jack Harris was ophthalmologist at the mission trip. Dr Pittard was a
medical doctor in the mission. The recipients of eyeglasses were those who showed most immediate
satisfaction among all patients who were treated. At the August 28, 1998 meeting Lion Bob Robinson
from Athens Heritage club spoke as a candidate for district-vice-governor for 1999- 2000. President
Wayne Carpenter welcomed members of the Lavonia club. Sheila Grant from Tamasee, SC, (1-800-
983-2609 access code 25) representative of the Gordon Bernard Company (1-800-531-1484), promoted
the 1999 Lions Birthday Calendar sales. She acknowledged the Lions she had met at the State
Convention in Savannah. District Governor Tom Sexton made his official visit, September 8, 1998. He
described the reasons for his pride in Lionism, in aLi the activities and projects to help and serve
others. Lions met again at the warehouse, September 22, 1998, to secure brooms and mops to sell
within their own neighborhoods. George Hosea at the October 13, 1998, meeting described the work
week in Alaska, July 26 to August 1, conducted by the First Baptist Church of Toccoa, in cooperation
with other churches. At the October 27, 1998 Lions meeting, Andy Crawford introduced Future
Farmers of America Executive Secretary, John K. Wilkinson, his son-in-law. Wilkinson introduced
Sally Mason, vice-president North Region FFA of Georgia, and Chip Bridges, teacher of vocational
agriculture at Stephens County High School. Sally described her participation in FFA, and her travels
with national FAA President Hilary Smith from Perry, Georgia, and her plans to attend the FFA
convention to be held in Kansas City. She described the expansion of the FFA to include black farmers
and females. At the Board of Directors meeting, November 3, Willard Kimsey recommended
discussion whether to have noon meetings of the club District Chair Order of the Golden Chain Ed
Hashbarger outlined the provisions to Toccoa Lions, November 10, to secure an Order of Golden Chain
award. Club members discussed the recommendation for noon meetings. It was announced a vote
would be taken at the November 24th meeting.

First Vice-President Russell Paxton told of his experiences, November 24, when he attended the
USACanada Lions Leadership Forum at Lexington, Kentucky, September 24-26, 1998. At the vote for
meeting at noon, votes tallied were 13 for and 5 against, and the club approved meeting second and
fourth Thursdays at noon at Gate Cottage beginning in January 1999. At the Christmas Meeting at
Pixie and Bill's Restaurant,in Clemson, South Carolina, December 8, 1998, First Vice-President Russell
Paxton presided. M.C. Stowe led the pledge of allegiance, and Irving Hellenga offered the invocation.
President Wayne Carpenter welcomed Lions, spouses, and guests. Widows of deceased Lions who
attended were Johnnie Smith and Frances Worley. Lion Ruth Payton brought her husband Dr. Payton
and his mother, Maiy Payton. Dana Whitaker Boney, Mauldin South Carolina, daughter of former Lion
Howard and Gladelle Whitaker, inspired the club with an interpretation of Christmas by presenting ten
Christmas carols on the flute. She gave her closing selection, "O Holy Night,* as a tribute to her
parents, whose interpretation of Christmas she said was their favorite. She had printed on her program
the words of "O Holy Night,* and rendered a different musical variation for each of the four stanzas.
1999
For the first time in more than 65 years 6f history of Toccoa Lions, the club met for a noon
meeting until Thursday, January 14, 1999. The serving line now opened at 11:30 a.m. The meeting
began at 12 noon, and closed at 1:00 p.m. Brenda Kelly, principal of the Stephens County Middle
School addressed the club at noon on that January 14, and described the school's Accelerated Reading
Program. Virgil Megill as chair of the Peace Poster Committee presented a $25 check to Amanda
Boling, who won first place in the contest at Stephens County Middle School. President Wayne
Carpenter congratulated her for winning first in the county. He also recognized Amanda* mother, and
the art teacher Kathy Jameson and school principal Brenda Kelly. Tim Green, director of ARAMARK
Services a Toccoa Falls College reported on January 28 various, proposals being considered by the
Toccoa Falls Foundation, the TFC organization that supervises food services. Dan Minyard accepted
responsibility for the Mints program that Harold Atkinson had been overlooking. Lion Dan expanded
placement of mints to additional locations.

. Audit Committee examined the financial records of the club over the past three years, since the
transfer of the treasury from Carl Panther to Ray Cornell. The Committee found all transactions to be in
order. The funds designated for the Lighthouse Reserve Fund have gradually been depleted. A lady on
the lake had given the club a mobile home during Her WoodalTs tenure as club president, when she
moved to Washington, D.C. Annual contributions to the Lighthouse have been taken from this
Lighthouse Reserve Fund. The club considered paying for White Cane supplies for White Cane Day,
for the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation also be taken from this fund. Collections for White Cane
exceed $1400 annually. With the loss in membership in late 1998, the distribution of 1999 birthday
calendars was left to fewer people, but the club rallied to deliver the 1999 calendars. Lion Ruth Megill
was chair of the 1999 Calendar Committee. During 1998 both the Industrial and Residential Mop and
Broom sales had become on-going projects throughout the year. Because of inclement weather, on two
scheduled dates in 1998 for door-to-door broom sales were cancelled. For broom sales, participating
Lions took brooms to sell in their own communities door-to-door. Under Vernon Smith's leadership
each company was assigned to a committee member to follow-up replacements and new orders for
brooms. Welton Carpenter coordinated residential broom sales. To inform new members, the Board on
February 2 recommended officers explain their duties at club meetings, Joe Vaughn as secretary, Ray
Cornell as treasurer, Andy Crawford as Third Vice-President, Kay Royal as Second Vice-President,
and Russell Paxton as First Vice- President. Lion Ruth Megill for the Valentine luncheon, February 11,
gave readings on he meaning and history of Valentine's Day and expressions of love. Past District
Governor Conny Shirley at the February 25 meeting inducted new members Robert Koenig, Steve
Watson, Larry Earhart, and Art Conway. Beverly Shirley stressed Membership, and Conny Shirley
described work of the Lighthouse. President Wayne Carpenter announced responsibilities for the
Pancake Breakfast held at Toccoa Elementary School Cafeteria. Assignments were: Ticket Sales,
Vernon Smith. Ed Akin, Nick Thomas, with all members to sell tickets; Cooks and Helpers Harold
Atkinson, Chris Stephens, Eddie Seay Randy Shirley, Joe Vaughn, Frank Edmonds, and

Art Conway; Take-Out-Orders Andy Crawford, Welton Carpenter, Ray (Cornell. Chris Epps; Tables
and Serving Irving Hellenga, Russ Paxton, Ruth Megill, Ruth Payton, Claud Smith, Kevin Vanderhoef,
Henry Fields, 'Larry Earhart and Bob Koenig; Publicity M.C. Stowe, Virgil Megill, Dan Minyard and
Bob Koenig; Coffee and Drinks Willard Kimsey and Dan Mtnvard; Clean-up Clarence Gregory, James
Irvin, Ray Cornell, Wayne Carpenter, Virgil Megiil, M.C. Stowe, Bob Koenig, Russ Paxton and Claud
Smith. Bub Sonnentag, speaker March 25, is coordinator of mentoring at the Stephens County Middle
School and the Crossroads School. Irving Hellene at the March 25th meeting inducted Henry Fields
and Kevin VnTiherh'jet. Officers Joe Vaughn as Treasurer and Andy Crawford as Third Vice-President
explained their club duties, and also Kay Royal as becjnd Vice President and Russell as First Vice-
President explained their ci.it. auues, *t the April 8, 1999 club meeting Wayne Carpenter gave his
a^v.npuon of duties as President. The election of officers for 1999-2000 viti *t* follows. Russell
Paxton, President; Kay Royal, First Vice- ^iiiv:it, Henry Fields, Second Vice-President; Ruth Megill
Third Vice- "v.iaw.: oo? Vaughn Secretary; Christopher Epps Treasurer, Welton r.iv Taravr: Irving
HellengS ictncr Gregory (Director 1, Ruth Payton (Dlf6ClO *v:ir-i:S'.T (Director 2, Larry Earhart
(Director 2) Kevin Vanderhoef V'LLLciH- Canon, Albany, Georgia, president Georgia Bar
Association, viit s:ciT at the April 22 meeting, held in the President's Dining Hall '.' 7 *.'.j'.jy Falls
College. He described the integrity of attorneys. He ｫ -vit:d lor understanding of the lawyer's purpose
to help people. He said lywvfr. should be known for the service they render, not for the money "i-.i^
zzxcM, and asked for the end of "bashing" of lawyers. Attorney Lion Ail irv'iri introduced Canon. The
attorneys attending were Alton Adams, Vr; >'iil. and Nona Svoren. ''.'Juer visitors were Ted Taylor
from WNEG; Roger Sheppard, president Vit Too-joa Little League Association, Ron Ross from the
Boys and Girls Ci-d ccx6 Bob Sonnentag, director of Mentoring at the Middle and hools. While Ccine
collections April 9-10 exceeded $1400, which topped wjpts oi 3 998.

District 18-D Governor Elect Joe Hirsch installed officers for 1999- 2000, at the May 13 club meeting.
When he inducted Director of Mentoring Robert Sonnentag, Hirsch said he himself is a mentor. Hirsch
commended Sonnentag and Lions who render the mentoring service. In succeeding months Irving
Hellenga and Ruth Payton also became mentors. In 1999 Roger Sheppard, who was also chairman of
the Little League, managed the Lions BasebaH Team in the Junior League. Phil Griffin coached the
Lions team. Games were played April 10 with the Dodgers, April 17 the Braves, April 20 the Marlins,
April 27 the Sox, May 1 the Braves, May 6 the Dodgers, May 14 the Marlins, May 20 the Sox, May 25
the Braves, May 30 the Dodgers, June 5 the Giants, and June 11 the Sox. Roger Sheppard at the April
22 meeting complimented the Lions Club for sponsoring a Little League Team through the years. Lions
met May 27 at noon at Gate Cottage, and adjourned to go to the Warehouse at 558 Mize Road to pick
up brooms and mops to sell in their neighborhoods. Those who attended the Lions State Convention in
Athens, May 28-30, were Irving and Myra Hellenga, Willard and Marian Kimsey, Virgil and Ruth
Megill, Russell Paxton, and M.C. and Amelia Stowe. Irving Hellenga submitted applications for award
to Awards Chair Tanner at the May 4 Cabinet Meeting. Russell Paxton and Virgil Megill visited the
Recording for the Blind studios, and Lion Virgil did some reading from a textbook there. Lions present
at the District Officer Training session in Dawsonville, June 8, were President Wayne Carpenter, First
President Willard Kimsey, President-Elect Russell Paxton, Treasurer-Elect Christopher Epps, Tail
Twister Welton Carpenter, Third Vice-President Ruth Megill, and Bulletin Editor Virgil Megill. Club
members who attended the State Convention in Athens reported to the June 10 club meting. Willard
told of the district breakfasts, Irving Hellenga on the process to be 100% clubs, Russell Paxton on the
Recording for the Blind, Ruth MegQl on the Award Ceremony, and Virgil Megill on his interpretation
of the Recording for the Blind procedures. The Cookout to honor the Lions Baseball team was held in
Henderson Falls Park, June 24, in charge of Harold Atkinson, Welton Carpenter, Kay Royal, and
others.

Lions Virgil and Ruth Megill attended the Lions International Convention in San Diego, June 27 to
July 2r 1999, where Jim Erwin was elected president. Georgia State Representative Jeanette Jamieson,
addressed Toccoa Lions, July 8 as chair of the State Education Committee that has responsibility for
56% of the state budget, for 6.7 million of the 13 million budget. Ruth Payton, August 12, described
her trip to Uganda in East Africa. Shelia Grant described the possibilities for the 2000 Lions Club
Calendar, speaking at the August 26 meeting. Following her recommendation the club chose, by
reducing the advertisements by 1/16 inch, to secure an additional row of advertisements for the 2000
calendar year. District Governor Joe Hirsch made his Official Visit to Toccoa Lions Club September 8.
Lions Kay Royal and Russ Paxton attended the USA/ Canada Forum in Birmingham, Alabama,
September 16-19, 1999. He had attended the Forum in 1998 in Lexington. Lions Russ Paxton and Kay
Royal reported on the Forum at the September 24 club meeting. She recommended the club sponsor a
golf tournament, and her recommendation was approved by the Board of Directors at its meeting
October 5. At the October 14 club meeting Lion Kay Royal explained her proposed Chilly Open Golf
Tournament at The Pines Golf Course on March 18, 2000. : lion Kay Royal as a fundraiser for the
Tournament brought a portable pad and cup to subsequent meetings for those who wished to try their
putting to donate fifty cents for three tries at a hole-in-one. Each one who tried was put in a drawing to
win the money. Usually the money won was donated toward the tournament. Jon West, former Toccoa
Lion, now president of Stephens County School Board, at the October 28 meeting described plans for
the erection and location of the proposed new Middle School projected for Rose Lane, Willard Kimsey
led inquiries about the traffic problems when both the athletic complex and the new middle school will
have entrances on Rose Lane. West spoke about two new roads to be built, one connecting the
Stephens County High School with the new middle school, and a new exit from the Toccoa By-Pass for
the middle school.

Virgil and Ruth Megill attended the joint meeting for the Georgia Lions Lighthouse and Camp for the
blind, October 16-17, at the Holiday Inn in Forsyth, Georgia. Lion Dr. Kevin Vanderhoef conducting a
training session November 2 at Stephens County Eye Clinic for Lions to be briefed in operating Eye
Screening equipment to be used at the Lions Booth at the Fall Festival November 6-7, 1999. - Lion
Ruth Payton was chair of the 1999-2000 Lions Peace Poster Contest on *A New Beginning for Peace.*
She met in August with Kathy Jameson, art teacher at Stephens County Middle School, who recruited
80 present and former students ages 11 to 12 years of age to enter the contest. She picked in November
the top 14 winners, and the Lions Committee shoes the top three winners. The top fourteen posters
were posted in the meeting room of the Toccoa-Stephens County Public Library. First place went to
David Neubert; Amanda Shakleford, second; and Jennifer Holbrooks, third. Other top winners were
Jennifer Fowler, Rebecca Sprinkle, Josh Davenport, Erica Means, Megin Hanson, Hayley Neal, Brent
Gregg, Heather Dooley and Matt Kellar. Christmas songs by the Eisner Sisters was the program at the
Lions Christmas Party December 14, at The Cove. The sisters, Connie Edmonds, Diane Hawkins, and
Norma Walters sang "Winter Wonderland" "White Christmas," "Silver Bells," "Silent Night,"
"Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer," and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas."
2000
Collectors at Quality Foods Friday were Claude Smith, Wayne Braswell, Art Conway, Russell
Paxton, Kevin Vanderhoef, Virgil and Ruth Megill, and Saturday Robert Sonnentag, Russell Paxton,
and Virgil and RuthMegill. Attending the Combined Zone Meeting in Ha, February 29, were Irving and
Myra Hellenga, Willard and Marian Kimsey, Virgil and Ruth Megill, Russ Paxton, and M.C. and
Amelia Stowe. Lion M.C. Stowe as White Cane Chair for 18-D presented the challenge of White Cane
Day at the Combined Region I Zone Meeting in Ila Restaurant, at the Region II Zone Meeting held at
the North Georgia University cafeteria in Dahlonega, and at the Third District Cabinet Meeting, March
5, at Georgia Lions Fairgrounds in Hiawassee.

Attendees at the District Convention and Third Cabinet Meeting, March 5 at Hiawassee were Irving
and Myra Hellenga, Virgil and Ruth Megill, Dan and Doris Minyard, and M.C. and Amelia Stowe.
Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation Executive Director Linda Bassett (Hauptfuhrer) addressed
Toccoa Lions April 13 in the President's Dining room of Toccoa Falls College. Ruth Megill announced
that White Cane collections April 7-8 totaled $1,851+ and gave a check to Linda Bassett along with
collected glasses, frames, and cases. Conny and Beverly Shirley from the Clarkesville Lions Club
addressed Toccoa Lions April 27. Past District Governor Conny represented the Georgia lions
Lighthouse and the used eyeglasses recycling program. lion Beverly Shirley recommended some "Do's
and Don*ts* regarding membership and retention. PDG Conny Shirley inducted four new members
into the Toccoa Lions Club: V.M. Babu sponsored by WiQard Kimsey, Elizabeth and Bob Davis
sponsored by Russell Paxton, and Joseph W. LaValle sponsored by Kay Royal. Joe Hirsch on May 11
installed officers for 2000-01, in place of District Governor Elect Ed Hashbarger. Officers for 2000-01
are Kay Royal, President; Henry Fields, First Vice-President; Second Vice-President. Ray- Cornell;
Third Vice-President, Wayne Braswell; Joe Vaughn, Secretary; Ruth Payton, Treasurer; Welton
Carpenter, Tail Twister; Harold Atkinson, Assistant Tail Twister; Dan Minyard, Tail Tamer; Directors
(two years) Nick Thomas, L.J. Harrison, Robert Sonnentag; Directors (one year) Harold Atkinson,
Larry Earhart, Russell Paxton; Chaplain, Irving Hellenga; Parliamentarian, M.C. Stowe. Russell and
Daphene Paxton and Virgil and Ruth Megill attended the State Lions Convention in Augusta, May 19-
20, 2000. At a District Breakfast during the State Convention District Governor Joe Hirsch presented
the Order of the Order of the Golden Chain award to Russell Paxton. In state awards Toccoa club
placed first in the Club Scrapbook, and second in the Club Bulletin. District Governor Elect Ed
Hashbarger appointed lion Ruth Payton as District Chair for Diabetes Awareness for 2000-01, who will
write Diabetes Awareness articles for the District Bulletin. He also appointed Lion Kay Royal as
District Co-Chair of the Peace Poster Contest with the 2000-01 theme, "United in Peace", who with
other co-chairs chose the district Peace Poster winner. He appointed M.C. Stowe as District SightFirst
Chair over the Lion Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) allocations recommended to the national
office, and follow-up of

SightFirst-LCIF projects. Irving Hellenga will continue to be District Resolutions Chair, and Virgil
Megill district librarian. Former State Senator Guy Middleton addressed Toccoa Lions, May 25, 2000,
and advocated fiscal responsibility, elimination of unfounded mandates, elimination of self-serving
"pork* to be re-elected, and ethics in government. Russ Paxton reported on the State Convention held
in Augusta. At the June 8 club meeting Lion Russ reported on the recommendation of the Board of
Directors to increase dues to $24 monthly. Secretary Joe Vaughn explained the district responsibilities
and local cost of meals made that necessary. On motion by Claude Smith and second by Dan Minyard
the club approved the Board decision. Ferrell Morgan, Mayor of Toccoa, explained to Toccoa Lions,
June 8, concerns of city government, and the role of public minded persons. He traced steps in
extending the City Gas service through Habersham and Rabin Counties into North Carolina. A special
night out was the Fish Fry, Friday, June 9, at Henderson Falls Park, a social evening with no business
but to enjoy fish, food, and fellowship. Lions met again, June 22, in the evening at Henderson Falls
Park for the Little League Cookout for team players and their families. Lions Baseball Team Manager
Lion Art Conway introduced Coach Thim Crump and Co-Manager Lion Ron Ross, and announced
Mary Weaver as team mother for the season. Lions Team members present included Charles Cheek,
Charles Conway, Daniel Lambert, and Godfrey Williams. An All Star Player, Andrew Crump, was also
present. Other Star Players not present, but practicing with the All Stars Team, were Eli Angel, David
Corley, Andrew Crump, Bud Keith, and Craig Lawson. Lions players not present included Justin
Joyner, Josh Maynard, Owen Sanders, and Shawn Weaver. Each received a trophy, and a baseball
signed by all team players. Conway congratulated the team for its sportsmanship and record, and the
members chosen to play on the Toccoa All Star Team to enter into regional competition. At June and
July meetings the Board of Directors discussed meals served at Gate Cottage, and authorized the House
Committee, Harold Atkinson chairman with Bob Sonnentag and Ruth Megill, as liaison to meet with
Gate Cottage to upgrade the meals served at Lions meetings. Club members then voted preferences for
noon meals.

Toccoa Lions attended the First Cabinet Meeting of 2000-01 hosted by the Lavonia Club at the old
restored Lavonia Railroad Depot building, July 9. Beverly Shirley, vice-president of the Georgia Lions
Lighthouse, spoke to Toccoa Lions, July 13, and showed the video of the Children's Eye Care Center,
its services and research advances, at Emory University Hospital. In Summer 2000 Shayla Woody was
the first local camper in recent years that Toccoa Lions sent to the Camp for the Blind at Waycross. At
the July 27 meeting she thanked the club and described how great the Camp was. Lion Joe LaValle and
family brought Shayla July 16 to Macon to meet the station wagon to take her to the Camp. At the end
of the week Lion Kay Royal picked up Shayla at Macon to return her home. Shelia Grant from the
Gordon Bernard Calendar Company outlined options at the July 27 meeting the Calendar Committee
considered for the 2001 Lion Community Birthday Calendar. ; ; . Kay Royal and L.J. Harrison reported
July 27 on the application for the Habitat for Humanity grant. The LCIF grant enables the club to
sponsor a local Habitat for Humanity building. The proposed site and family have been identified. Lion
L.J. coordinates the program as local community director over all local Habitat projects.
Representatives at the Combined Zone Meeting in Ha August 29 were Wayne Braswell, Irving and
Myra Hellenga, Willard and Marian Kimsey, Virgil and Ruth Megill, Dan and Doris Minyard, Kay
Royal, M.C. and Amelia Stowe. Buddy Ouzts praised LCIF and its Habitat for Humanity grants. At the
September 14 meeting Kay Royal outlined plans for coming Lions events. She introduced Secretary
Joe Vaughn to explain additional costs that are covered in the increase of dues. She announced the
work weekends at the Camp for the Blind, October 14-15, February 23-25, and April 27-29. Harold
Atkinson spoke of the importance of having sufficient foodstuffs for the Committee for the Needy to
distribute during the Christmas season. Lion Kevin Vanderhoef will begin to collect toys from patients
who bring them to the Stephens County Eye Clinic, to receive a reduction of eye medical costs for toys
donated to the Lions. Lion Nicole Carswell as main speaker described the forthcoming poinsettia sale
to be held at the Fall Festival, October 4-5. Free Eye Screening will be continued at the Festival. First
Vice-President Henry Fields introduced the speaker, September 28, Lonnie Edenfield as executive
director of the Stephens County

Chamber of Commerce, who described the Currahee Bridge project. He used Conceptual Industrial
Park graphs to picture development in Stephens County, and in northeast Georgia through the Franklin,
Hart and Stephens Joint Development Authority. Lion Willard Kimsey spearheaded the Lions Auction
project October 5 that benefited the Administrative Fund $1919.30. The Elks Club provided use of
their building and Bob Davis donated his services as auctioneer. District Governor Edward B.
Hashbarger at his official visit, October 12, challenged Toccoa Lions to inaugurate a Leo Club. He
described Lions services in Georgia. George Cline at the October 26 club meeting traced the
development of the Toccoa-Stephens County Airport Authority and plans for the proposed new
terminal, and extension of mile long runways to accommodate jet aircraft. Lion L.J. Harrison, chair of
Toccoa Habitat, met with Lions from Clarkesville and Cornelia and with District Governor Hashbarger
in October to plan their joint Habitat for Humanity program. Virgil and Ruth Megill were present at the
planning session. Kay Royal has also reported to other clubs on the Habitat program of Toccoa Lions.
Kay Royal first made reservations for Toccoa Lions at the District Rally at Gainesville Civic Center,
October 28. As a result Toccoa was table number one for Henry and Betty Fields, Willard and Marian
Kimsey, M.C. and Amelia Stowe, and Virgil and Ruth Megill. International Director Peter Barilla from
Rhode Island was speaker. Dr. Kevin Vanderhoef conducted a training session at the Stephens County
Eye Clinic for Lions to give eye screening during the Fall Festival at the Downtown Mall, November 4-
5., Nicole Carswell directed the poinsettia sales. Lion Joe LaValle as Toccoa Lions Peace Poster Chair
promoted the 2000-01 contest on "United in Peace," at Stephens County Middle School, working with
Art Teacher Kathy Jameson and her assistant, Denise Allen. Lion Ruth Payton, R.N., District Diabetes
Awareness Chair, at the November 9th club meeting described the role of diet and other factors that
lead to diabetes. Christmas Party Chair Henry Field, with Robert Sonnentag and L.J. Harrison,
arranged for the meeting place and program of the Lions

Christmas Party, held December 14, at Georgia Baptist Assembly. Tables were beautifully decorated
for Christmas. > ~. Lion Harold Atkinson directed the auction of *Ohe of a Kind,* object, which was
won by Claude Smith. The proceeds were; given to the Christmas for the Needy fund. Guests at the
Christmas party were Mrs. Johnnie Smith, widow of Lion Bill Smith, and Mrs. Frances Head, widow
of Lion Grover Head. >.' .; r .i-.v. . Christmas music by Rose Ann Watson, Cindy Tatum, and David
Ritcey, excited anticipation, joy, celebration, charity, .goodwill, meditation, and gratitude. A Santa Hat
was placed on Ed Akin as Irving Hellenga led in singing, from music sheets passed through the
audience, of "Up on the Housetop Goes Our Ed." The novelty song featured Ed Akin from "Grandpa
Tucker Rhymes and Tales," as "Go! Ed! Go! Oh, What a show, Go! Ed! Go! Our Elf hero." Lion Kay
and Lion Henry gave Christmas mementoes (Lions Pens) to various club leaders and officers to express
gratitude for their participation, time, and service to the club and its outreach to the community. Toccoa
Lions "Rang the Bell" for the Salvation Army at Wal-Mart, December 22.
2001
Tim Miller addressed Toccoa Lions, January 11, on the Family Connections program of
cooperating services and schools of Stephens County to help fainilies in need, particularly those with
young people, who need positive leadership. He commended the mentorinjg program at Stephens
County Middle School headed by Lion Bob Sonnentag., Police Chief Frank Strickland at the January
25 club meeting described services of Toccoa Police Department. Also present were Officer Curtis
Scott from Toccoa Police Department arid Lion Randy Shirley, chief of police of Lavonia, recently
transferred from Toccoa club. President Kay Royal at the January 25 club- meeting presented to Lion
L.J. Harrison the LCIF check of $33,750 from the grant of the Lions Clubs International Foundation,
representing 75% of the cost, the remaining 25% to be divided equally and paid by the Toccoa Lions
and the Toccoa Habitat. On short notice Lions who could break away, came to the groundbreaking,
January 31, for the Toccoa Lions Habitat for Humanity home to be erected on Howard Road (off
DeFoor Road.) Barbara Mayfield dug the first spade of dirt for Azelle, who was seated in his
wheelchair.

Lion L.J. Harrison coordinated the ceremony as chairman of Toccoa Habitat. District Governor Ed
Hashbarger from Lawrenceville, member of the Norcross Lions Club, was present for the ceremony.
Lavonia Lions Club hosted the Zone Meeting, February 6, at Lilly's Restaurant, chaired by Jack
Andrews from Carnesville as Zone Leader. District Vice-Governor Ron Epperson from Athens Lions
Club presented state and district programs. He spoke as nominee for District Governor, and Steve Hart,
presently cabinet secretary, as nominee for District Vice- Governor, during the year 2001-02. Attending
were Kay Royal, Willard and Marian Kimsey, Irving and Myra Hellenga, M.C. Stowe, and Virgil
Megill. Toccoa Lions met at Reflections Restaurant on The Pines Golf Course, February 8, at 6:30 p.m.
for the Valentine Party, in charge of Chairman Larry Earhart, Shannon McFarlin, and Andy Crawford.
Shannon McFarlin secured the entertainment of the evening. Terry "Flash" Young wove through the
audience wearing a sequence of costumes as he impersonated songs of Elvis Presley and Tina Turner as
Rock and Roll stars, Willy Nelson as Country musician, and Jimmy Busser as Beach musician.
President Kay Royal reported February 22 on the Board appointments of Chris Carswell as Lighthouse
associate and Nicole Carswell as Camp associate, and reviewed plans for the Pancake Breakfast and the
Chilly Open Golf Tournament. At the March 8 meeting at Reflections Kay Royal presented a check to
Alyce Eubanks as winner of the Toccoa Lions Peace Poster Contest, whose mother Carol Henderson
was present at the recognition. Certificates were prepared for Art Teacher Kathy Jameson and assistant
Denise Allen. Peace Poster Chair Joe LaValle coordinated promotion of the Peace Poster Contest, on
the theme "United in Peace,* in Stephens County Middle School. Joe LaValle coordinated the Teeing
off of 25 golf teams at the Lions Chilly Open Tournament, March 17, at The Pines Golf Course.
Hartwell Lions were an early arrival for the tournament. First Place winners were Ted Voyles, Wes
Brock, Max Brock, and Chad Sorrells. Greg Garrison won the "closest to the pin" contest, and Marylou
Gilbert and Mike Osborne won "longest drive" honors. Dr. Don Young, president of Toccoa Falls
College, at the March 22 meeting traced the vision of Dr. Richard A. Forrest in its founding in 1907,
the school and community working together especially after the

1977 flood, and the goal for the college increasingly to bring service to the community. Irving Hellenga
inducted Chad Herron at the meeting, April 12, sponsored by Russ Paxton. Randy Howell, principal of
Stephens County High School, gave tribute to Lionism, and shared how when he was principal, the
Winder-Barrow County High School band performed at the Lions Clubs International Convention in
Montreal. He praised Buddy Ouzts and Bobby Reynolds who pioneered with the Quest program in
Winder. Since coming to Toccoa, to check the national increase in dropouts and lower test scores,
Howell explained Stephens County High School is experiencing a higher daily attendance record. He
said the school follows results oriented education that stresses leadership classes, emphasizes improved
study skills and work habits within the school, and skills and leadership preparation for adulthood in
the larger community. Toccoa Club observed White Cane Day, April 20-21, a date postponed to permit
collections for the Georgia Lions Lighthouse to be the same day at three locations: Ingles, Quality
Foods, and Wal-Mart. Receiving donations for the Lighthouse at Ingles were Willard and Marian
Kimsey, Henry Fields, Chad Herron, Ed Akin, and Kay Royal. At Quality Foods Lions receiving White
Cane dpnations were Bob Sonnentag, Irving Hellenga, Claude Smith, Wayne Braswell, L.J. Harrison,
and Russell Paxton. Collectors at Wal-Mart were M.C. Stowe, Ray Cornell, Frank Edmonds, Wayne
Carpenter, B.M. Babu, Virgil and Ruth .Megill, and Karen EUard from the Wal-Mart staff. Total
receipts for White Cane were Wal-Mart $787.65, Ingles $373.30, and Quality $273.83, totaling
$1424.78. M.C. Stowe calculated the hourly comparison, from Wal-Mart $62.55 per hour, Ingles
$36.33 per hour, and Quality 27.83 per hour. To Karen Ellard's suggestion, some cakes and cookies
were sold or given away. Karen donated a cake and sold if, to meet the category Wal-Mart could easily
approve for a matching grant toward White Cane contributions received at Wal-Mart. Toccoa Lions
hosted the Lions Region I Zone I Meeting, Tuesday, April 24, at Reflections. Presiding was Zone
Leader Jack Andrews from Carnesville club. President Kay Royal introduced Joe LaValle, who spoke
on the challenge of working with youth. He told the importance and challenge of the Camp for the
Blind, the Peace Poster Contest, and Leo clubs. He spoke with conviction as he drew upon his own
experience of teaching in Hart and Franklin Counties, at Truett-McConnell College, and as a graduate
student instructor at the University of Georgia. At the April 26th club meeting at Reflections Ernie
Garrett explained the Fatherhood program begun in 1997 to stimulate education, training,

^Offii^ and vision for fathers to be responsible in family and work dbligtiQiras. More than providing
financial help, fathers are being inspired to gbre ttmnje and relationship with each child. The program
is flexible, according to the needs, abilities, and opportunities for fulfillment for each man. The Board
of Directors voted May 1 to support Buddy Ouzts from the Administrative Fund for his International
Director campaign at the International Convention July 2-6 in Indianapolis, Toccoa Lions at the Fourth
Cabinet Meeting at a barbeque in Heten* May 6, were District Resolutions Chair Dr. Irving Hellenga*
and District Librarian Virgil and Ruth Megill. At the May 10 meeting at Reflections, Dr. Irving
Hellenga installed Tka Miller into Lionism, sponsored by Henry Fields, and President Kay Royal gave
Lion Tim his Certificate of Membership. She challenged him, "Now you can sing a song forever!"
Chris Watkins, director of the Independence Day Festival, invited Lkxts May 10. to support the Liberty
Spectacular. The club agreed to mttdhL individual lion contributions. Lake Hartwell Park Ranger
Tanya Grant explained in a sSsfie presentation, May 10, the operation of Lake Hartwell to seirre
hydroelectric power control, flood control, navigation control, and. services for recreation, fishing, and
wild life. She said control of water downstream involves coordination of water levels of Lake Hartwell,
Lake Russell, and Lake Thurman. Past District Governor Conny Shirley, ceremonially, on May 24,
placed stoles on officers he installed for 2001-02: Henry Fields, president; Wayne Braswell, First Vice-
President; Larry Earhart, Second Vice- President; Joe Lavalle, Third Vice-President; Joe Vaughn.
Secretary: Ruth Payton, Treasurer; Welton Carpenter, Tail Twister; Harold Atkinson, Assistant Tail
Twister; and Directors Two Years, Nicole CarsweH and Willie Woodruff; Director One Year, L.J.
Harrison; and Parliamentarian, M.C. Stowe. New officers not present at the installation ceremony were
Dan Minyard, Lion Tamer, Irving Hellenga, Chaplain; Ray Cornell* Two Year Director; and One Year
Directors Nick Thomas and Robert Sonnentag. . v Toccoa Lions recognized at the State Convention at
Jelqrll Island, June 1-3, were M.C. Stowe for leadership in SightFirst and White Cane; Ruth Payton as
District Diabetes Awareness Chair, Kay Royal as Peace Poster District Co-Chair, Irving Hellenga as
District Resolutions Chair, and Virgil Megill as District Librarian.

At the Little League Cookout at Henderson Falls Park June 14, to honor the Lions Junior Team in the
Little League Network, Coach Ray VanDeWalle explained the team had a 12-6 record. He introduced
each Lion player and thanked the club for sponsoring the team* Events in early American history Hany
Wise dramatically presented to Toccoa Lions, July 12, as he identified emotionally with his own
feeling about the attitudes and prejudices of those whom he characterized. -- Ray Ward outlined goals
to Toccoa Lions, July 26, to preserve artifacts and to restore Cherokee culture as he described goals of
the Currahee project along the Tugalo River Corridor- District Awareness Chair Ruth Payton
welcomed opportunities to present the urgency of diabetes prevention, to the First Cabinet Meeting,
July 22, in Winder. She cited the Diabetes Support Group at Stephens County Hospital a model to be
followed. > Lion Ed Akin in his annual report of the Sight Conservation Committee, July 1, 2000 to
June 30, 2001, listed 78 applications for glasses and 69 pair delivered, costing $4,848. The 25-year
summary showed 1386 applications, 1275 glasses delivered, at a cost of $69,109. Lion" Robert
Sonnentag at the August 9 dub meeting at Reflections, describing value and role of mentoring to
disturbed students, praised volunteers who establish relationships with insecure youth. * He said the
mentor's personality could develop wholesome attitudes in a young person, and through relationships
change and motivate students to be productive members of society. He sparked attention as he used
magic of appearing and ^disappearing red lights as he moved his arms about, picking up and disposing
of objects while he was lecturing. At the funeral of lion Clarence Gregory, who died July 28, a large
delegation from the Georgia Department of Transportation attended, including Cathy Sexton, wife of
District 18-D Governor in 1998-99, for her husband who worked with Clarence, when he was unable to
attend. In succeeding months the street by his home on Brookhaven Circle the State Department of
Transportation renamed "Clarence Gregory Highway." District Governor Ron Epperson made his
Official Visit to Toccoa Lions, August 23, 2001. Governor Epperson related his own faith in his
message based on the yearly theme, 'light the Path* and 'Light the Lamp of Knowledge.* He held out
his hand, and one finger each for commitment to (1) God, (2) Family, (3) Country, (4) Friends, and (5)
Service. He cited the role of Toccoa Lions in various district and state projects. Concluding, he said,
"Thank you for helping me to fulfill my

commitment. That is my reward!" Lion Ron illustrates the success of Lionism when within five years
he joined West Athens Lions Club, assisted its merger with Athens Club, became president of the
merged club, received Lions Leadership training for new Lions, became vice- governor, and district
governor. Calendar Co-Chair V.M. Babu called for a meeting of the Calendar Committee following the
address by District Governor Epperson. Shelia Grant from the Gordon Bernard publishers of the
calendars, discussed plans with Co-Chairs Tim Miller and V. M. Babu, Shannon McFarlin, Willie
Woodruff, Henry Fields, Larry Earhart, and Ruth Megill. Zone Leader Kay Royal shared in the plans
for the Combined Zone Meeting in Ila Restaurant, August 30, 2001. Attending were Henry Fields,
Irving and Myra Hellenga, M.C. and Amelia Stowe, and Virgil and RuthMegill. Representing Lion
Ron Ross to speak to Toccoa Lions, September 13, Gary Donahue traced the wide range of activities of
the Boys and Girls Club in the Whitman Center, both tutorial and athletic. He said about 400 students
are enrolled in the study and athletic program, with average attendance 150. Designed to help students
with homework after school, when parents are not at home, the Toccoa Boys and Girls Club, involves
more than 50 students from Toccoa Falls College who donate time for helping students and leading
various activities. Ruth Hoffman and Dr. and Mrs. Gongre are regular adult volunteers from the
college. The Steppers program contains no boys. Both Boys and Girls participate in Talent Contests, a
Rhythm band, a Boys and Girls Choir, in community events as The Taste of Toccoa* and interest in
projects that challenge. Lion Randy Shirley was one of the founders of the Boys and Girls Club in
Toccoa, who is now chief of police in Lavonia. Lion Ross was unable to attend, as he had to be in
Atlanta that day to receive a state grant. He also coordinates Boys and girls Clubs in Upper Baldwin
Elementary School in Cornelia and White County Elementary School in Cleveland. Toccoa Lions at
the USAiCanada Forum, September 19-21, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, were L.J. and Mabel
Harrison, Russell and Daphene Paxton, Henry Fields, and M.C. and Amelia Stowe. The theme was
"Light the Path to Leadership.* The focus was on facing needs of younger Lions, family connections,
attracting interest to recruit outsiders, preparing new ways to fulfill the Lions purpose "We Serve,*
employing words that reach the heart. "Healthy Choice* was an appeal

for attracting youth, and for diabetes prevention and prevention of blindness. The Annual Fish Fiy held
September 27 at Henderson Falls Park was a Family Outing. Lion Frank and Phyllis Edmonds promote
the project. He catches the fish during the year for the Fish fry, &nd Phyllis cleans, prepares, freezes
the fish* and provides hushpuppies for the date of the Fish Fiy. Among attendees were Lion Wille
Woodruff and his son William, who participated in the 1998 Lions Club Peace Poster Contest. Bill
Grant addressed Toccoa . Lions * October 11 at Reflections Restaurant, describing humorous
experiences in State Patrol and local law enforcement of county sheriff departments. He traced tactical
movements of police in hair-raising situations, in a low-key voice and in a certain confidence of
victory. On October 25 2001 Lion Ruth Payton, R.N., who has previously supervised several homeheath-care
projects , from the Gainesville Medical Center, that has served thirteen north. Georgia
counties, spoke on diabetic retinopathy. She described the helpfulness of the Diabetic Support Group
that meets regularly at the Expressions Room of Stephens County Hospital. Guests on October 25 were
Jerry Smith, Maxine Reese, Dr, John McCarthy, and John Kipp. Lion Ruth Payton not only is 18-D
District Diabetes Awareness Chair for 2001-02, but also Diabetes Awareness Chair of Multiple District
18, for its six districts. She has guided agenda for personnel assigned by district governors to promote
Lion Diabetes Awareness. * Throughout the state she has stimulated Lions projects of community
testing for diabetes and promotion of diabetes prevention. She has led to an increased consciousness of
the danger of diabetes as a cause of blindness. Her articles on diabetic retinopathy are published in the
state Lions newspaper, and in The Toccoa Record. ; Dr. Sam Nelson, pastor First Baptist Church,
challenged Lions, November 8, meeting at Reflections Restaurant during the renovation of Gate
Cottage, to remember Thanksgiving. He asked Lions to be aware of the gratitude to God of the
Plymouth colonists, for their first harvest of squash, beans, and corn the Native Americans had helped
them plant. Dr. Nelson compared the colonists' circumstances with that of South Americans where
missionaries' minister today in areas where families still live in homes "with dirt floors, who eat roots
from trees, and have no running water." He reminded the Lions of the prayer in the Psalms by the Jews
three thousand years ago, *I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving."

District 18-D officers met November 10 at Gainesville Civic Center for the Second Cabinet Meeting at
3:30 p.m. Then others joined them at the District Rally at 6:30 p.m. From Toccoa were Kay Royal,
John and Ruth Payton, Irving and Myra Hellenga, M.C. and Amelia Stowe, and Virgil and Ruth Megill.
Scott Storms, International Director from Rhode Island, outlined the work of Lions throughout the
world. Peace Poster Chair Joe Lavalle sent the winning Lions Peace Poster of Samantha Buice at
Stephens County Middle School to the District Governor by November 15 for district competition. To
illustrate the theme, "Lighting the Path to Peace" in the lower right Samantha pictured people of
various cultures, who moved left to the globe, over which burning candles in the clouds were
representing the universal desire for peace. A path from the globe leading up to the right, cany lights
toward various symbols of peace. From these symbols of peace suspended in the clouds, inspiration of
light of peace drifts downward on the people of the world. The cyclic impact is completed and ready to
be repeated and implemented. Zone Leader Kay Royal chaired the Zone Meeting, November 29, at
Hartwell. Ruth Payton spoke on diabetic retinopathy, and introduced Alex Allen, who traced steps in
establishing Camp Kudsu for diabetic children. Present from Toccoa were Wayne BrasweU, Henry and
Betty Fields, Virgil and Ruth Megill, Ruth Payton, Russell Paxton, and Willie Woodruff. Lions
meeting in the renovated Gate Cottage, December 13, 2001 for their Christmas Party, heard Clyde
McDowell from Hart County Hospital in the Ty Cobb Hospital Association, present Christmas
selections on the keyboard, accompanied by a soloist from his church. First Vice- President Wayne
Braswell introduced the program that stirred the audience, from popular cultural Christmas songs for
the family and community settings, to carols from the Biblical origins of Christmas. Wives of former
presidents who attended were Mrs. Grover Head, Mrs. Johnnie Smith, and Mrs. Marian Anderson. Also
welcomed were the chairman of the Toccoa Diabetic Support Group at the hospital, Steve Spruill, his
wife Diane, and Lions Region Chair Jack Andrews and his wife Mary. Lion Nicole Carswell again
sponsored the Poinsettia sale of 743 plants. Proceeds of $1100 were directed to the Administrative
Fund. The Board of Directors reexamined Reserve Fund and the interesting bearing certificates on
deposit.

f Strphrns ('oiintv Hospital. The HivrrrisruirrM s, ;ind Linns submitted nrul nimes mul flutes of
birthdays, anniversaries, ;inl ^ilr'riflnrs printed, ;uul distributed bv Lions, Hum 'onnrnssionors .Juiunrv
I.(.) shnrrd with the Lions junt.v ^jvfTrimcnl, Commission Chiir Linda :dorson spoke, and Strvo
Chifwood. who "o-. who lat.tT was narnod interim Countv nrfinm for' rhr HIind and vmI tox! hooks
aloud for s ivrll as reading current :Y:'Hiini. renter, used 000 tor tin's project, 0,000 hv LC0J0 mid .; ,:'
placed, on CD's ,:: )'0'-r In Princeton. :r russ met. at. f's caw when I )'Uipflino and t'U'sr questions on?
What (lid VOU HO oil vowi

Braswell thanked Lions for selling more tickets than in previous years. There were long waiting lines,
even extending outside the Toccoa Elementary School. Lions addressed the problem, when they soon
recognized the need for more grills. Pancake Breakfast receipts were $2226.05. Expenses were
$909.36, and the net profit was $1316.69. At the February 28 meeting to recognize the winner of the
Peace Poster Contest, Samantha Buice, Lion Joe Lavalle explained her family had moved away, and
she would be recognized by mail. Her father, formerly pastor of St. Mathias Episcopal Church, had
moved to another parish. Governor Ron Epperson opened the District 18-D Convention, March 2, at
the Oconee Elementary school in Watkinsville, March 2, Virgil Megill was reelected District Librarian.
He as Librarian spoke to Lions at the convention, and briefly in the Third Cabinet Meeting that
followed. Ruth Payton addressed the Cabinet Meeting as District Diabetes Awareness Chair. Toccoa's
peace poster by Samantha Buice was on display, along with posters of other clubs in the district.
Attending from Toccoa were M.C. and Amelia Stowe, Ruth Payton, and Virgil and Ruth Megill. Past
Chairman of the Stephens County Board of Education, Kim Hudgins, at the Lions meeting March 14,
evaluated the priorities and performance of Stephens County Schools. She explained how support of
continuing the SPLOST taxation for the school district was significant to make necessary repairs to
existing buildings, Lion Joe Lavalle directed the Chilly Open Golf Tournament at The Pines Golf
Course, March 16. The D Smith and HLC Bailey teams tied at 16 under par, and in playoff, the Smith
team scored first and the Bailey team second. Other winning teams were the McFarlin 15 under; the J.
Bowers 13 under; the T Matthews 12 under; the Stovall 12 under; the Collins 11 under; the Debra's 9
under; the Bank of Toccoa 8 under; the Peterson 5 under; the McManus 2 under; and the J. Bryant,
even par. Suzanne Bellflower briefed Toccoa Lions March 28 on the Northeast Georgia Youth Science
and Technology Center at Piedmont College. She explained how this center, one of 15 in Georgia,
provides curricula in classrooms K-12 advocating conservation of natural resources and wildlife. The
center utilizes scientific and educational curriculum to face environmental problems. She conducts
workshops for teachers, excursions, promotes projects of wildflower walks, butterfly gardens,
sustaining wildlife, and the "Enviroscape Watershed Model." Two students from Stephens County
High School gave FFA speeches at the April 11 Lions Club meeting, Bo Dotson, who gave a prepared

speech on "Agricultural Goals and Production," and Dathan Harbert, who gave an extemporaneous
speech on The Past and Future of Farming." A student teacher, Cabonna Holcomb, came with the two
students, and assigned Dathan his topic 30 minutes before he addressed the club. Toccoa Lions were
fascinated and challenged, April 25, as Dr. Dale Twilley, a dentist in Toccoa, showed a slide
presentation of a medical mission trip to Brazil, Speaking as he showed pictures of the trip, he
contrasted s scenes oL beauty with the impoverished areas where 48 persons from ten states converged
in the mission trip. These Baptists set up a portable clinic of doctors and dentists that saw 9,744 people,
and helped 1,372. Wal-Mart provided 1,500 prescriptions,'and medicine administered totaled $150,000.
Dr. Twilley thanked Lions for their service for the sight impaired. He praised the Brazilian people,
accustomed to pain and blood, for their resilience in times of suffering. The mission volunteers also
showed the "Jesus" film and led periods of praising and singing. Martin Lions hosted the Lions Zone
Meeting at their clubhouse, with their outstanding barbeque, April 29. In attendance from Toccoa were
Roger Andrews, Brenda and Ray Cornell, Wayne and Dot Carpenter, Betty and Henry Fields, Joe
Lavalle, Marian and Willard Kimsey, Ruth and Virgil Megill, Ruth Payton, Kay Royal, Ruth and
Claude Smith, and Nick Thomas with his Leader Dog Bert. As one of the supporting organizations of
the Top Five banquet, Toccoa Lions shared in acknowledging "Honoring Academic Excellence" given
to Stephens County Middle and Senior High School honor students, Tuesday, May 7, at Georgia
Baptist Conference Center. Those attending the Top Five program included President-elect Wayne and
Noreen Braswell, L.J. and Mabel Harrison, Virgil and Ruth Megill, Bob Sonnentag, and Willie
Woodruff. Lion Sonnentag also attended as chairman of the mentoring program in Stephens County
Middle School. The Middle School principal read list of honor Middle School students, who were
recognized as a group. Then one-by-one these Senior High honor students received recognition as his
or her parents stood: Anne Church, Adam Dean, Hope Green, Stephanie Gross, April Horton, Joanna
Leidy, Rikti Patel, Erin Payne, Jackson Rainey, Jessica Stacey, Ginger Taylor, and Cale Whitworth.
The principal Top Five banquet speaker was the Georgia State Commissioner of Labor, Michael
Thurmond, a friend of Lion Willie Woodruff. Their friendship dated from the time when both worked

together as lawyers in Athens. Lion Willie greeting Thurmond when he arrived at the dinner, and
together as they met those in charge of the Top Five program. Stephens County Sheriff Gene Sorrells at
the May 9 club meeting in Gate Cottage reviewed the department's well-documented service to the
county. He reported 809 calls were made to the department in April, including 147 public assistance
calls and 115 questions on DEFAC. He cited the department's 175 escorts, 108 suspicious persons
watched, 2520 "special security watches,* 134 prison transfers, 330 arrests, and investigations of 36
accidents. At the May 23rd club meeting Past District Governor Conny Shirley installed the 2002-03
Lions club officers: Wayne Braswell, President; Larry Earhart, 1st First Vice President; Joe LaValle,
2nd Vice President; Willie Woodruff, 3rd Vice President; Joe Vaughn, Secretary; Ruth Payton,
Treasurer; Ray Cornell, Tail Twister, Kay Royal Assistant Tail Twister; M.C. Stowe, Parliamentarian;
Irving Hellenga, Chaplain, Art Conway, Assistant Chaplain; One Year Directors Nick Thomas, Chris
Carswell, V.M. Babu; Two Year Directors Nicole Carswell, L.J. Harrison, Roger Andrews; and
Immediate Past President Henry Fields. Toccoa Lions were prominent at the State Lions Convention,
May 24- 26, 2002, in Athens. Toccoa club was recognized at a District 18-D breakfast meet, as it won
third place among medium sized clubs in the District Governor's Contest for 2001-02. This honor
reflected the accurate recording of club activities in the monthly reports submitted to the District
Governor by Secretary Joe Vaughn. The club also won othe awards, from applications submitted by
Awards Chair Irving Hellenga, including the Canton Award for the club guest register that Lion Irv
presents at each club meeting. The club rated first for its Scrapbook compiled by Lion Ruth Megill, and
first place for its Monthly club Bulletin. Toccoa Lions attending the convention were Pamela Carper,
Ruth Payton, Ruth and Virgil Megill, and Amelia and M.C. Stowe. Lion Ruth Payton at the State
Convention was received into the Order of the Golden Chain for meeting its requirements during the
year. She also received a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition as District Diabetes Awareness
Chair. She presented a Diabetes display, among other promotions of Lionism in the halls and lobby,
where Toccoa Lions shared in staffing between regular convention sessions. Pamela Carper, sponsored
by Ruth Payton, was runner-up as the newest Lions member to attend the State Convention. Pamela,
director of Toccoa-Stephens County Head Start organization that works with

Family Connections First-Partners for Success, was a Lion only one month. The most recent Lion
attending the 2002 state convention had joined a Lions club in Georgia only two weeks before the
convention. Virgil Megill was recognized at the Convention as District Librarian. He submitted copies
of the Toccoa Lions History and the History of District 18-D to the State Historian, Olin C. Newby
from Washington, Georgia. , Toccoa Lions Conrad Anderson and Clarence Gregory, who died during
the year, were recognized at the Sunday morning Necrology Service at the State Convention. Toccoa
Lions, June 13, in a Cookout at Henderson Falls Park at 6:30 p.m. recognized the 2002 Junior League
Lions players in the Little League system. Lion Ray Cornell introduced Team Manager Nick Addison,
who introduced and described the role of each player present. The manager gave trophies to the best
offensive player Mark Addison, best defensive player Daniel Figueroa, and to Nick Sellers the best
player to demonstrate and sustain greatest sportsmanship. Team Pitchers throughout the season were
Daniel Figueroa, Brandon Leverette, and Andrew Williams; Catchers Jacob Anderson and Joshua
McCuny; First Base Casey Addison; Second Base Thomas * "Tee" Schoenberger; Third Base Stanley
Roberts and Nick Sellers; Short Stop Daniel Figueroa. and Joshua McCuiriy; Right Field Andrew
Sniffer and Andrew Williams; Center Field Nick Sellers; and Left Field Joshua Kenny, Brandon
Leverette, and Nick Sellers. Scott Kelly from the Corps of Engineers described to the club June 27
responsibilities to maintain water levels of Lake Hartwell for communities reaching downstream to
Savannah. The "seven year drought" has caused each community to be jealous to have the water level it
needs, and the Corps attempts to satisfy all. He said water levels in Lake Russell and Lake Hartwell are
so regulated. A major concern is maintaining the proper water level for the fishing level near the ocean.
Representatives of the Tight Abuse in the Home, Inc." addressed Toccoa Lions, July 11. Charles
Groover spoke as chair of Power House *Faith_Stop Abuse" on Route 123 above Big A Road. Also
describing the attempts to prevent domestic abuse were Brenda Chapman, Nikki Greer, and Juanita
Howard. Lion Roger Andrews, providing the program on July 25, described the perspective of
Woodman of the World as similar to that of the Lions. He shared he admired the sustained motivation
of Lions to live by the motto, "We Serve.* Roger Andrews presented a new United States flag to the

Toccoa Lions club, a gift from the Woodmen of the World. Irving Hellenga inducted Dave Stancil,
sponsored by Frank Edmonds, into Lionism, and Brian Pitts applied for Lions membership. Shayna
Woody, the legally blind girl Toccoa Lions have sent for several years to the Georgia Camp for the
Blind, attended this year's camp for ageslO to 13, at both June 9-14 and July 14-19 sessions. Ruth
Payton was among the 17 Lions of District 18-D who attended the International Lions Convention in
Osaka, Japan, July 8-12, 2002. As district chair of Diabetes Awareness, Ruth Payton applied for a
"Core-4 Matching Grant* from the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF, to support the Camp
for Diabetic Children, Camp Kudzu. With the help of International Director Buddy Ouzts, the matching
grant was awarded, as a new frontier of Lionism to reach the sight impaired. This year's camp, Camp
Kudzu for Diabetic Children, was held June 25 to July 5, located on Twin Lakes" facilities near
Rutledge, Georgia. Lion Ruth had promoted the Diabetic Children's Camp at Lions zone meetings and
at the 2002 State Convention. She reported to Toccoa club at the August 8 meeting about the
International Convention she attended in Osaka, Camp Kudzu's summer session and plans for the fall,
and other Lions projected projects and concerns for diabetics. For her leadership and stimulus in the
district International Director Buddy Ouzts with District Governor Steve Hart, presented Ruth Payton a
Lions International Award. She also received an International President's Certificate of Appreciation at
the District Rally, November 2. As an unusual experience among Toccoa Lions was the birth of a son
to Lion Chris and Lion Nicole Carswell, Julv 31. 2002, named Charles Hadden CarsweU IV, weighing
7 lbs 10 oz. Lion Nicole, an attorney, is chair of the club's Audit Committee, the club's Constitution and
By-Laws Committee, and the Committee on Public Relations for the club Bulletin and Scrapbook. Lion
Chris is a member of the Little League Committee. At the First Cabinet Meeting, August 4, 2002, in
Dawsonville, District Governor Steve Hart and Awards Chair Bryson Tanner presented to Irving
Hellenga, a check for Toccoa club, recognizing the District's first place scrapbook award granted to
Toccoa Club. The Board of Directors, announced August 6, 2002, the 70th Anniversary Committee,
comprising Kay Royal as chair, Ruth Payton, Andy Crawford, Irving Hellenga, and Roger Andrews.

Hany Wise speaking to Toccoa Lions at the August 22 meeting relived in a dramatic and enthusiastic
portrayal the tensions during the Civil War. He had been director of Department of Family >nd
Children Services in Warren, Greene, and Stephens Counties. His personal military career inducted
diplomatic service in the Philippines, the Department of Army Special' and General Staffs, and was
retired Commander of Headquarters Command 18th Airborne Corps. With an apology to L.X Harrison,
he said the cotton gin created the social conditions that demanded increased labor supply, increased
slavery and provoked the Civil War. Toccoa representation at the August 29, 2002, Combined Zone
Meeting in Ha' Restaurant were President Wayne Braswell, Myra and Irving Hellenga, Ruth and Virgil
Megill, Ruth Payton, and Amelia and M.C. Stowe. Past District Governor Dan Stuart outlined new
initiatives, begun during Jim Erwin's presidency, and now being implemented by International
President Kay K. Fukushima, elected in 2002. , Former Toccoa Lions President Randy Shirley, now in
Lavonia club, and police chairman in Lavonia, at the September 12 meeting, reviewed the security
measures in Israel he observed during a professional visit there. He announced an Israel security and
police team to visit Toccoa and Lavonia in a reciprocal visit in coming months. Lion Randy said he
admired the advanced technology of the Israeli police and their security precautionary procedures. Past
District Governor Loyd Prewett, ^-'ST, who had moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana, and recently has
returned to the area, was assigned to the Special Projects Committee. Other new members were
assigned as follows: Brian Akin, Chilly Open and Sight Conservation/Hearing; Brian Pitts, White Cane
and Chilly Open; Pamela Carper, Diabetes Health and Welfare, and Christmas Party; Dave Stancil,
Pancake Breakfast and Chilly Open. Plans for the 2003 Lions Birthday Calendar project .were begun
September 12 with Tim Miller as chairperson. Committee members were Shannon McFarlin, L.J.
Harrison, Henry Fields, Willie Woodruff, and Larry Earhart. Ruth Megill was designated consultant. In
his Official Visit, District Governor Steve Hart, September 26, thanked the club for its past and present
outreach, and challenged the club to fulfill new privileges of service. He reported on the Habitat for
Humanity Lions program sponsored by LCIF. He described the outreach of Sightfirst has reached
millions, equal to the total population of eleven states in the Southeast of the United States. He
challenged the club to

nominate persons for the Outstanding Blind Award and the Ann Sullivan Award for work with
handicapped children. He promoted the Pin Trader's program, and stimulated the club efforts toward its
own Lions for a 70th Anniversary Pin. Lions Ruth Payton and Ruth Megill attended the Camp Kudzu
Board Meeting in Atlanta, October 2. Workers and Board Members of Camp Kudzu honored Ruth
Payton, citing her leadership in initiating and development support of Camp Kudzu. She received a
Citation of Appreciation from Alex Allen, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Camp Kudzu. At the
October 10 club meeting in the President's Dining Hall, Mack Poss described the role of the Stephens
High School Council to benefit student and parents of the community. June Stufft, high school and
middle school band teacher, also spoke as a resource person to inspire community interest in the school
system. Poss invited persons to join the Council, authorized by Georgia House Bill 118 to establish a
middle and high school council in each school district, as advisory groups of parents and private
citizens concerned of inquiry and recommendations about school policies and practices. President
Wayne Braswell excited Toccoa Lions, October 24, as he retraced his experience attending the
USACanada Leadership Forum, September 19-21, 2002, in Fort Worth, Texas. He described the Forum
"the most organized function I have ever attended." Stephens County Registrar George Hosea gave
Toccoa Lions a lesson in the use of electronic voting machines in the October 24th meeting. He said
blind persons could use a patch that registered vibrations to the fingers for the choices made. He noted
some persons could vote for the first time, because they could see the ballot enlarged to 150%. Toccoa
Lions were represented at the Anniversary Banquets of Dahlonega and Snellville, to view materials and
program possibilities for their own club. Shayna Woody, the legally blind girl Toccoa club supports,
was a speaker at the District 18-D Rally in Gainesville, November 2, who thanked Lions for the
privilege of attending the Camp for the Blind. Also attending the District Rally from Toccoa were
Wayne and Noreen Braswell, Sandra and Larry Earhart, Henry and Betty Fields, Virgil and Ruth
Megill, and Ruth Payton. Prior to the District Rally at the Gainesville Civic Center, Governor Hart
convened the Second Cabinet Meeting, where Ruth Payton and Virgil Megill both reported.

Toccoa Lions sponsored a "Health Fair* at Wal-Mart, November 5, 2002, using Personnel Stephanie
Steele and Vicki ,Holbrooks from Stephens County Hospital and volunteers from the Toccoa> piabetes
Support Group and lions, to provide blood pressure checks, blood glucose finger pricks, an eye vision
test, and retina examinations. Members of the Stephens County Senior High School Girls Ensemble,
directed by Rose Ann Watson, provided sentimental songs the November 14 meeting. Dan Minyard
Coordinated Lions Christmas for the Needy Fund efforts to help three families with food and clothing,
one family city, two in county. Harold Atkinson raised $278 from donations toward more than $400
spent for clothing for families. Kevin Vanderhoef and Stephens County Eye Clinic provided for
clothing, and Kay Royal arranged for foodstuffs and paper goods. Lion L.J. Harrison provided Lions
the Christmas Program, December 12, 2002, with stirring inspirational carols and Christmas music by
the singing sisters, Sonya Fortson Steeple and Shauna Fortson, accompanied on the piano by Mae
Brown. By request Sonya sang unaccompanied, Troubles of the World," a solo popularized by Mahalia
Jackson.
2003
At the January 9, 2003 club meeting Ruth Payton showed the new video depicting athletic and other
activities at Camp Kudzu for Diabetic Children. She announced the 2003 session to be held at Camp
Barney near Cleveland, Georgia. Attending the Zone Meeting, January 30, 2003, at the Roystonian in
Royston were Irving and Myra Hellenga, Ruth Payton, M.C. and Amelia Stowe, and Virgil and Ruth
Megill. Irving Hellenga inducted Brian Pitts into Lionism at the January 23 meeting. PDG Loyd
Prewett received his Past District Governor's patch to be placed on the club banner. Lion Roger
Andrews presented a new United States flag to the Lions club, a gift from the Woodmen of the world.
Emily Cash provided romantic background music for the Lions Valentine Party, February 13. Ruth
Payton presided at the game period,

as she enlisted Lions and their spouses to test their memories and observations toward their married
partners. Wayne Braswell coordinated all Lions in the Pancake Breakfast preparations and service held
February 22 at Toccoa Elementary School Cafeteria. Cooperation was excellent even on a cloudy day.
About as many tickets were sold as last year, but fewer people were served, enlarging the profit.
President Wayne Braswell welcomed Stephens County Middle School Principal Brenda Kelly, Peace
Poster Winner Catherine Bridges, and her mother Terri Bridges, to the February 27 club meeting at
Gate Cottage. Catherine's entry of the peace poster based on the 2002-03 Lions Clubs International
peace theme was first place among 77 entries by students of the Stephens County Middle School. At
the Chilly Open Golf Tournament March 1 at Highland Walk near Victoria Bryant State enthusiast
golfers braved the cool mist. lion golfers were Roger Andrews, Joe Lavalle, Brian Pitts, Kay Royal,
Dave Stancil, and Kevin Vanderhoef, among the total of 111 golfers beginning at 1:00 p.m. for the
half-day's enjoyment on the newly upgraded 18-hole course. Norcross Lions Club hosted the District
Convention and Third Cabinet Meeting, March 2, at Buchanan school. Representatives from Toccoa
were Irving and Myra Hellenga, Ruth Payton, and Ruth and Virgil Megill. Immediate Past President
Henry Fields at the March 13 club meeting promoted the upcoming Stephens County SPLOST
referendum set for March 18, and passed by popular vote. Mary Chapman briefed Lions on March 27
on the Alzheimer's Care- Giver Support Group. She described caregiver programs for Alzheimer
patients, the physical conditions of those involved, and help support groups give to victims and their
families. Gathering at the downtown mall, the 2003 lions Junior team in the Little League, April 4,
marched with other Little League teams, toward Boyd Field, to participate in the League's celebration
of its 50th year in ceremonies at Doyle Park. Toccoa Lions were recognized as one of the original
founders of the Toccoa Little League. Near the home plate from the grandstand Little League officials
conducted the 50th anniversary ceremony. Each team was asked to have an adult sponsor throw a ball

to the pitcher. Frank Edmonds representing the Lions Club threw a ball for the Lions, one of the
original sponsors of the Little Lion League system organized in 1953. Lion WiLLard Kimsey was
present with his steel crutches and portable cart to share in the Little League festivities. In other Little
League activity Krysten Vanderhoef, daughter of Lions Kevin and Beverly Vanderhoef, caught a ball
pitched by a representee of a girls' team at the Little League Anniversary Celebration. She brought in
the winning run in a game against the Thunder team, and doubled for a win of the Firestix team against
the Diamonds. Toccoa Lions nominated their officers, April 10, for the 2003-04 year, and elected them
at the ^April 24 meeting. Officers elected were: President, Larry Earhart; First Vice President, Ruth
Payton; Second Vice President, Kevin Vanderhoef; Third Vice President, Roger Andrews; Secretary,
Joe Vaughn; Treasurer, Kay Royal; Tail Twister, Ray Cornell; Assistant Tail Twister, Henry Fields;
Lion Tamer Emeritus, Dan Minyard; Lion Tamer, Harold Atkinson; Assistant Lion Tamer, Welton
Carpenter; Parliamentarian, M.C. Stowe; Chaplain, Irving Hellenga; Assistant Chaplain, Wayne
Braswell; Directors for one year, Nick Thomas, Nicole Carswell, L.J. Harrison; Directors for two years,
Andy Crawford, Claude Smith, Brian Akin. White Cane collections totaled $1,190.46, from donations,
Friday and Saturday, April 11-12, received at Ingles, Wal-Mart, and Quality Foods. M.C. Stowe
coordinator appointed Wayne Carpenter to schedule Lions to receive donations at Quality Foods, from
these Lions: Brian Akin, Ed. Akin, V.M. Babu, Wayne Braswell, Welton Carpenter, Chris and Nicole
Carswell, Arthur Conway, Ray Cornell, Andy Crawford, and Larry Earhart. A unique witness of
Toccoa Lions at the White Cane Collection at Quality Foods as his parents Lions Chris and Nicole
Carswell were receiving donations, was the presence of their nine-month son Charles Hadden Carswell
in his stroller. Willard Kimsey scheduled time assignments from among these Lions to receive
donations at Ingles: Frank Edmonds, Christopher Epps, Henry Fields, L.J. Harrison, Irving Hellenga,
James Irvin, Joe Lavalle, Shannon McFarlin, Ruth Megill, Virgil Megill, Tim Miller, Dan Minyard,
and Russ Paxton.

M.C. Stowe, who coordinated all the club White Cane collections, scheduled these Lions to receive the
donations at Wal-Mart: Ruth Payton, Brian Pitts, Loyd Prewett, Kay Royal, Claude Smith, Vernon
Smith, Bob Sonnentag, Dave Stancil, Nick Thomas, Willie Woodruff, and Harold Atkinson. Lions
brought cookies to give to White Cane contributors at Wal-Mart, to permit Wal-Mart to provide a
matching White Cane grant to the Lighthouse, equal to the White Cane donations received at the Wal-
Mart location. For the past two years, Wal-Mart has given a matching grant to the Lighthouse equal to
or more than the White Cane donations received on their premises. Martin Lions received White Cane
donations at alternate entrances at Ingles and Quality Foods, as they did also last year. At the April 3,
2003 club meeting Charles Warren Smith and TFC Registrar Kelly Vickers described the projected
Leon Gathany Nature Museum to be located near Gate Cottage. Lion L.J. Harrison related at the April
22, 2003 club meeting his first installment of his personal involvement in the Civil Rights movement
between 1940 and 1968, with Martin Luther King Jr., Andy Young, Julian Bond, Dr. Benjamin Mays,
and others. He recalled also he had dined with Governors Sanders, Carter, Busbee, Barnes, with
Presidents Carter, Ford, Nixon and Reagan, and with Mayors Jackson, Hartsfield, and Young. He said
he was the first black hired at WABCO, the first black as city police officer, as president of the
Franklin County Teachers, and as Toccoa City Commissioner, and as mayor of Toccoa. Attending the
Zone Meeting at Gumlog, April 29, 2003, were President Wayne Braswell, Diabetes Chair Ruth
Payton, M.C. and Amelia Stowe, and Ruth and Virgil Megill. Toccoa Lions were represented at the
46th annual observance of the Top Five Banquet held at Georgia Baptist Conference Center. Attending
May 5, 2003, were Wayne and Noreen Braswell, Irving Heilenga, Ruth and Virgil Megill, Claude and
Ruth Smith, and M.C. and Amelia Stowe. Congressman Johnny Isakson from the 6th Congressional
District of Georgia was primary speaker, along with Stephens County High School Principal Randy
Howell, and Cecil Clifton. At its origin the banquet had recognized the top five graduates of the Toccoa
High School, the Stephens County High School, and the Toccoa Falls High School, later consolidated
into the present Stephens County High School.

f PDG Irving Hellenga inducted Mary Ann Mojica into Iionism at the May 8 club meeting. PDG Coney
Shirley on May 22 installed Toccoa Lions officers for 2003-04. The club voted to cancel the cookout
for the Lions Junior Team in the Little League scheduled for June, as most of the boys would be
scattered. To substitute for the Cookout the club paid for recreation activities of the Lions team at Jocks
restaurant and recreational center. " ^ . Irving Hellenga submitted 14 entries for awards to be judged at
the State Convention, May 30 to June 1, at-Dalton. Ruth Payton had a Diabetes display in Dalton at the
State Convention. Ryan Presswood gave his winning speech in Dalton as the first.state winner in the
new Lions youth program, "Georgia Lions Young Ambassadors of the 21st Century Award.* Speaking
at the June 12 club meeting, Mark Ivester described progress in plans and construction of the Currahee
Campus of the North Georgia Technical College. He stated its slogan for vocation courses, "Great
Careers in Just Two Years! Or Less!* Past International President Jim Ervin was speaker at the 70th
Anniversary Banquet at Gate Cottage, June 19, 2003. Guests represented Albany, Athens. Athens
Heritage, Carnesville, Cornelia, Dahlonega, Dawsonville, Lavonia, Norcross, Oconee, Royston-
Franklin Springs, Winder Noon, and Towns County Lions Clubs. District officers present included
District Governor and Council Treasurer Steve Hart and Susan, Membership Chair Dan Stuart, State
Awards Chair Bryson Tanner, Vice District Governor Elect Bob Robinson, Region I Chair Jack
Andrews and Maty, Region I Zone I Chair Dane Stone, Region I Zone II Chair Jerry Davis, and
District 18-D Lighthouse Vice-President Joe Hirsch and Marilyn. Past district governors and past club
presidents and widows of Toccoa Lions also attended. Ed Akin was honored at the 70th Anniversary as
a Lion since 1947. Inducted by Jim Ervin at the anniversary celebration into the District Hall of Fame
were Past District Governors Willard Kimsey, Irving Hellenga, Loyd Prewett, and M.C. Stowe. The
70th Anniversary Committee comprised Wayne Braswell, Larry Earhart, Irving Hellenga, Ruth Megill,
Loyd Prewett, Ruth Payton, M.C. Stowe, and Nick Thomas. Toccoa City Manager Billy Morse at the
July 10 club meeting outlined plans for the city; in oversight of the police and Training Center,
Henderson Falls Park, the City Cemetery, Fire Department, the Pines,

water and sewage, airport, gas fund, golf fund, streetscape, and cooperation with the YMCA over the
Doyle Street pool. At the July 24 meeting Ruth Payton showed the video report of the services of the
Lions Children's Eye Care Center at Emory Hospital. L.J. Harrison gave his conclusion of his report of
Civil Rights Activities at the August 14 club meeting. Kristin Taylor, director of Public Health Chronic
Disease Prevention, from Gainesville, was speaker August 28, along with Susan Sisk, nurse at Liberty
Elementary School and head nurse of Stephens County School System. Toccoa Lions Irving Hellenga
with Myra, M.C. Stowe with Amelia, and Virgil Megill with Ruth attended Lions Day at the North
Georgia Mountains Fair Fall Festival in Hiawassee, August 11. Lions President Larry Earhart presented
a picture of Toccoa Falls to District Governor James and Marie Webb at his Official Visit, September
11, 2003. Governor Webb presented checks to District Diabetes Awareness Chair Ruth Payton from
Hartwell and Lanier (South Hall) Lions Clubs, and presented to President Larry Earhart a plaque for
Toccoa's giving the highest district support for the Recording for the Blind. The club meeting for
September 25 included a report of the Board of Directors regarding projects, priorities, and financial
goals for 2003-04. Willard Kimsey was speaker October 9 on the importance of recruitment. At the
Zone Meeting September 30 at Brass Lantern Restaurant in Lavonia were Roger and Barbara Andrews,
Wayne Braswell, Larry Earhart, Willard and Marian Kimsey, Mary Ann Mojica, Ruth Payton, Kay
Royal, Loyd and Mona Prewett, and Nick Thomas. Speakers were Region Chair Jack Andrews and
Vice-Governor Robert Robinson. PDG Conny Shirley inducted Beverly Vanderhoef, October 9, and
then addressed the club on recruitment of new members, by "Wearing the Right Shoes,* that those ill
fitted, improper, or misused are unbecoming or uninviting to prospective members, as "loafers,
sneakers, pumps, high heels, or running shoes* to face "jobs, battles, and duties before us.* As a clubwide
project Lions met Octoberl8 at the Toccoa City Cemetery to help in a clean up of grounds.

Mark Miller from Jasper in District A addressed Toccoa Lions, October 23 on the outreach of Leo
Clubs. Irving Hellenga and Loyd Prewett were recognized at the District Rally, in Gainesville,
November 1, as new Hall of Fame inductees. . "" Toccoa Lions met November 13 at the President's
Dining Room, where Mary Ann Mojica introduced the 2003-04 Peace Poster Winner, Alyssa Mary
Ann Mojica lntroaucea tne .uitf-uq- jreace roster winner, Aiyssa Elrod, presenting her a $50 check,
with her mother Anita Elrod, and a check of $25 to runner-up Colleen Moore. Steve Spruill, tracing
symptoms and precautions of diabetes described 'management of lifestyle" rather than medicine for its
control. Steve Spruill and Ruth Payton coordinated a Lions Club sponsored Health Fair at Toccoa's
Wal-Mart, November 21, during Diabetes Awareness Month. Carey Knowles, a humorist from
McCrae, Georgia, entertained Lions at their Christmas Party held at Gate Cottage, December 11, 2003.
In humor he described farm and family stunts and experiences.
2004
Vice-District Governor Robert Robinson addressed the club, January 8, 2004. To M.C. Stowe's inquiry,
where to get members, Robinson replied, "from people who want to change things and to make a better
community and a better life." Ruth and Virgil Megill were honored at the January 22 meeting at Gate
Cottage with Melvin Jones Fellowship Awards. Virgil Megill was admitted to the District Hall of
Fame. James Thomas from the Stephens County Board of Education, to the club January 22, reviewed
the role of students, executives, teacher, and the public in improving the attitudes and performance in
education. November 1. , ; Nine Toccoa Lions shared concern for public issues, February 7, 2004, in a
community "date with the media* before radio, TV and newspaper representatives, at a noon luncheon,
at the Rose Lane Athletic Complex, February 7, 2004. Participating were Lions Ed Akin, Ray Cornell,
Andy Crawford, Irving Hellenga, Willard Kimsey, Virgil and Ruth Megill, Claude Smith, and M.C.
Stowe.

Entertainer Bruce Fields captivated Lions at their Valentine Party, February 12, 2004. At the Toccoa
Lions Pancake Breakfast, February 28, with its financial success, at the Toccoa Elementary School
cafeteria, the rising sun brought a mystical glow in the outside air as the sunlight reflected on the frozen
moisture on the outside grounds. The breakfast was the first held after the new addition to the school
building was completed, and with new parking, new entrances, and new fellowship opportunities. A
table of seated Lavonia Lions announced for the Lavonia Lions their 70th anniversary dinner to be held
in the old depot restaurant in Lavonia, March 20, at 7 p.m. The Chilly Open Golf Tournament was held
at Currahee Club Golf Course, March 8directed by Golf and ProShop Manager Brian Stock with Lions
Brian Akin, Tammy Culpepper, and Beverly Vanderhoef giving guidance at the beginning and end of
the tournament. Hole 17 had a spectacular challenge to drive the baLi over the stone quarry and pond to
the green. Open to the public, among Chilly Open golf teams responding, those who were contacted by
Lions, Roger Andrews secured Cobb Memorial, Woodman of the World, and Andrews Jewelers. Kevin
Vanderhoef obtained sponsorships of Stephens County Eye Clinic, Jon Middleton, Adams Container.
Also teams secured were by Beverly Vanderhoef, First Franklin; by Kay Royal, Family Eyecare, Clinic
Pharmacy, Cobb's Roofing, Jamieson Tax, Debra's Magic Mirror, Morgan Concrete, and Patterson
Pump; by Dave Standi, StovalTs, Smith's Furniture, North Georgia Credit Union, Lanier Clothing, and
Toccoa Machine. Districts 18-D Annual Convention and Third Cabinet Meeting were held in Winder,
March 14, 2004. Virgil Megill was re-elected District Librarian. Charles Smith and Kelly Vickers
briefed Lions, April 8, 2004, on the Leon Gathany Natural Museum. White Cane Collection at Quality,
Ingles, and Wal-Mart was held April 16-17,2004. The election of officers for 2004-05 was held April
22, 2004: President Ruth Payton; First Vice-President, Kevin Vanderhoef; Second Vice- President,
Roger Andrews; Third Vice-President, Ray Cornell;

Secretary, Joe Vaughn; Treasures; Kay Rbralfc Tall Twiatera, Henry Fields, Welton Carpenter; Liom
Tirr, Eamnfi Atfmawan; Claude Smith, Brian Akin; Dmctocs fTw Director^ Dome Standi, Mary
Aｫ **i Mrairo rKrtｫ rmTT- T_ iI7mIm 1" ii i .i1t f o-T-tr TTot-Vtor* Ann Mojica, Chris Carswell; *_
Pauｻ Ficiidft, Larry Earhart. The Fourth Cabinet Meeting and Bosdbdcss IMfartrag were beid at the
Fests Hall in Helen, May 2, 2004. Keynote Speaker at the Top Fore Rgcngnrfinin program. May 11,
2004, held at Georgia Baptist Assembly was Scewc I>ritaD｣ ^ president of the Georgia Partnership for
Exrrnrncc nx Fkft.arniiMiL Ttjccoa lions in attendance were Wayne and Ndrccn BiaswXicrgjland
Ruth. Megfll, Ruth Payton, M.C. and Amelia Stowc; and! Jamoes TEhamaa. Steve Spruin described to
Toccoa firnrcv &tor 13, 2004, the pros and cons of the "Medical Prescription Drug CarcL" T3ae
imraetmg was held in the President's Dining room of Toccoa Falls Ccljesc The Lions Family cookout
was held Msx 22 an Henderson Falls Park, to recognize the Lions Junior Team in the Lixxir jsam^ at
5:O0 p .m. The final game of the season was played that guM.>g ai Dcyle Street Park. A picture of the
team was presented to each of ttae pftawsrs and the coaches by the club. Former Lion Eddie Seay and
his wife Kim were greeted as they attended the June 10, 2004 Lions Club meecmg. Eddie was praised
for his recipe for pancakes that he introduced to tdzae ehA, and has been consistently used ever since.
Eddie traced Ms e.v.:cijcDoes of his mission trip to Belarus, nnricrng thg su5tptginrr c｣ frfrw
wrnmainnft* g< ^wiK impact, and the openness and hunger of Belarus for fircedknma and especially
for the gospel. He showed slides of the people* tforiar stow revival of faith and their recovery from
impoverishment during tfcne Sowart years, Toccoa Lions at the 83rd anrnial State CocrvessitacaEL m.
Savannah, June 18-20, 2004, were Ruth Payton, Irving Hcflenga amid Myra* Loyd Prewett and Mona,
and M.C. Stowe and Amelia. Gmest sflwafewr y International First Vice-President Clement F.
JTPcaaV front lanthvum, Maryland, who had been District 13~D Rally speaker in 2J0C3,

The State Convention authorized the 2004-2005 Lions State Directory to be prepared for distribution in
District Cabinet meetings. The First Cabinet Meeting for District 18-D was held at Jefferson, August 8,
2004 Cynthia Brown from the Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce addressed Toccoa
Lions, June 24, outlining advantages offered in Stephens County. She distributed copies of the
brochure "Stephens Works, Roadmap to Success in Stephens County." She described the Liberty
Spectacular Fireworks and community chorus for July 1. She recommended participation in the 2004
Camp Toccoa Reunion scheduled for October 8 -10. Ruth Payton was a delegate to the Lions
International Convention, July 5-9, 2004, in Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario. Lion Henry
Fields was speaker at the July 8 Toccoa Lions Club meeting. He traced his life story from a farm boy
near Augusta, to training in a military high school, to Richmond Academy in Augusta, his work in the
Baptist Student Union, his concern for racial harmony and his continued liaison between black and
white. He said one day he helped children at Martin Luther King's father's church make birdhouses
from Popsicle sticks. At the July 22 club meeting President Ruth Payton outlined plans to prepare a
club Handbook and Directory, following a model of Mark Miller from District 18-A. Kevin
Vanderhoef reported plans for the Calendar project for 2005. Vivian Key described the projected
Community Health Fair, set for August 2, at the Recreation Department on Roselane. Wayne Braswell
recommended participation in the Camp Toccoa Reunion for 2004. Roger Andrews suggested the
possibility of having a Fishing Tournament, to be adjusted between the projects of the Pancake
Breakfast, Golf Tournament, and White Cane. The Board of Directors met for the first time at the Java
Station, operated by Lion James Thomas, August 3, 2004, after the close of *T's Diner* where Board
Meetings for years had been held on the first Tuesday of the month. District Governor Robert Robinson
made his official visit to Toccoa Club, August 12, and traced opportunities provided by Lionism on the
local, district, state, and international levels. Governor Robinson inducted Kevin Vanderhoef and Dave
Standi as members of the Toccoa Lions Club Board of Directors.

The Board of Directors at the September 7th meeting approved plans to preserve existing historical
scrapbooks and other records in more permanent form, under the direction of Lion Mary Ann Mojica.
Lion James Thomas spoke of his responsibilities as District Chair of Children and Children's Health.
Harry McDonald, M.D. at the August 26 club meeting traced his experience with the U.S. Marines and
the Navy in Afghanistan., He said he recently had been promoted to Commanding Officer of the
Marine Air Group 42. He will coordinate medical requirements and resources for Marine units to be
deployed overseas. He said he is responsible for medical needs 6f more than 1,500 Marines based from
Atlanta. Lion James Thomas hosted the Board of Directors at The Java Station, September 7. The
Board voted to continue monthly club meetings at Gate Cottage. Some Lions, favoring meeting at
Quincy's, had been concerned about the menus at Gate Cottage. The Board made its decision to
continue at Gate Cottage, based on the privacy at meetings, the accommodations, the food, and the
esthetics of the meeting place. The Housekeeping Committee announced it would continue to negotiate
with Gate Cottage, concerning the rotation of menus that has been in effect. One Lion bluntly requested
that the noon menu not be the same as the evening menu the night before. Region Chair Steve Helwig
updated work of Georgia Lions in the District and in the Regions, as he made his official visit to
Toccoa Lions Club, September 9. He had been active in the Athens West Club, which featured a
Halloween Haunted House for its major fund raising project, the club now merged with the original
Athens lions Club. The merged club continues the Haunted House entertainment in the Halloween
season. Toccoa Lions held their September 23 meeting at the new Stephens * County Middle School
building on Roselane, meeting there at 12 'o'clock for lunch, and then were given a tour of the building.
Ruth Payton presented to Principal Brenda Kelly a framed picture in color, of children with happy
faces. The inscription read, "Toccoa is investing in tomorrow. Today's students are tomorrow's leaders.
Congratulations, Stephens County Middle School, From Toccoa Lions Club.* ,. i Dr. Beverly Roberts
was guest at the October 14 Lions Club meeting, who spoke as a candidate for the office of
International Director from

Georgia, one of three, from which one will be elected at the 2005 Georgia State Convention, to set
policy and direct the international operations of Lions Club International. She was mindful that Lions
membership is growing outside of the United States, and that the United States Lions Directors will be
challenged to retain Lions Clubs International headquarters within the United States. She explained the
responsibilities of the International Director within the total framework of Lions International. Ray
Willis described to Lions, October 28, the responsibilities of the Emergency Medical Service. He
outlined the range of situations transferring patients to and from Stephens County Hospital and to other
hospitals for specialized treatment. The service operates from the hospital and from Station 2, on Route
17 South, where ambulances are dispatched. Edgar LewaUen, Toccoa Fire Chief, a thirty-one year
member of the Toccoa Fire Department, spoke at the November 11th Club meeting. Roger Andrews
presided, and announced the Zone Meeting to be held November 23 at Fletcher's in Hartwell. First Vice
President Roger recognized Suzanne McDonald as a potential new member of Toccoa Lions Club. The
Second District Cabinet Meeting and District 18-D Rally met in Gainesville Civic Center, November
13. The 2004-05 State Directories were distributed. Cited in the 2004-05 State Directory with
responsibilities from Toccoa Club were Larry Earhart, District Nominations Committee Region I;
Virgil Megill, District Librarian; Ruth Payton, District 18-D Credentials Committee Region I, who had
been District Diabetes Awareness Chair; M.C. Stowe District Sight Conservation Chair; and James
Thomas, District Children's Health and Diabetes Chair. The attractive State Directory, had a glossy tan
front cover, which pictured the yellow solid shape of Georgia imprinted, with "GA* and the Lions
International symbol of the two-faced lion imprinted over it. A caricature of a round body was drawn
on a Georgia peach, with arms extended one up and one down. Entitled over the cartoon was the title,
Georgia Lions: Daring to Brighten the Future.

Among the state officers District 18-D Governor-Elect Robert "Bob Robinson was designated Council
Treasurer of the Georgia Council of Governors and State Officers. Toccoa Lions who "Rang the Bell*
for the Salvation Army, December 4 were Wayne Carpenter, M.C. Stowe, Ruth and Virgil Megill. At
the Lions Christmas Party, December 9, 2004, Lions and their ladies sat at beautifully decorated tables
to enjoy a delicious buffet dinner and fellowship. Featured throughout the evening, was a - Christmas
musical atmosphere, beginning with dinner piano music by Cindy Tatum. The 'Singing Saints Quartet"
led by Ray Whiten then sang selected Christmas favorites both religious and secular. Concluding the
program, Lion Mary Ann Mojica sang, "Mary, Did You Know,* by Buddy Greene.
2005
The Board of Directors met January 4, 2005, in the conference room of Toccoa Inn to plan ahead on
projects and programs. Participating Lions were Roger Andrews, Andy Crawford, Henry Fields, Irving
Hellenga* Willard Kimsey, Virgil Megill, Mary Ann Mojica, Russell Paxton, Ruth Payton, Kay Royal,
Kevin Vanderhoef, and Joe Vaughn. The sustained purpose throughout the year was continued_to
stress and implement membership opportunities and responsibilities, to inform and promote the goals
of Lionism, to stimulate members, and to inform invited guests who will be encouraged to become
members. The Directors gave special attention toward a Free Clinic designed to serve uninsured
families. This was an opportunity that previously Toccoa Lions Club had considered as being a
sponsor. At the Januaiy 13 meeting at Gate Cottage, Suzanne McDonald was inducted as a new
member of the club. Past President Kay Royal officiated at the induction ceremony. Guests from
Stephens County Middle School were present at the Toccoa Lions club meeting, January 13, to
recognize and honor the Toccoa 2004 first and second place local winners in the lions International
Peace Poster contest. Attending from the Stephens County Middle School were Principal Brenda Kelly,
and Art teacher, Kathy Jameson. Also guests were Caitlin Ritchey, first place Poster winner, with her
father, Jonathan Ritchey; and Second Place Winner Ben Bridges,

with his mother, Terri Bridges, who is also principal at Liberty Elementary School. Lion Mary Ann
Mojica, Peace Poster Chair, conducted the Peace Poster ceremony. Each of the winners was presented a
check. She thanked the school and staff, the students and their parents. Toccoa Lions were volunteers at
the Community Health and Safety Expo, with health professionals and other volunteers at the Roselane
Athletic Complex and Senior Center, January 25. The public displays were in the main room, and the
private examinations by physicians were in the adjoining Senior Citizens room. The success of the
Expo revealed how Lions have been motivators, promoters, and workers with others in the community
to implement the purpose highlighted by Lions with the charitable purpose to serve those with health
needs. The success also strengthened Lions commitment to widen health awareness and concern and
involvement among the larger public. The Lions were among the last to leave the meeting rooms after
volunteers and other promoters and visitors in the Expo had departed. At the January 27 meeting, Past
District Governor Dan Stuart from Oconee Lions Club, challenged Toccoa Lions to increase their
impact and effectiveness for sight preservation, as partners of the Georgia Lions Lighthouse. He gave
District Patch Awards to Ruth Payton and to M.C. Stowe to be placed on the Lions Club banner.
Introduced by First Vice President Roger Andrews, PDG Dan Stuart current District 18-D Vice-
President of the Georgia lions Lighthouse described the uniqueness of Lions outreaches in several new
initiatives. He traced the impact of Lionism in international, state, and local visions and results. He
recognized several Toccoa Lions present who were past district governors including Willard Kimsey,
Irving Hellenga, Loyd Prewett, and M.C. Stowe, and commended them for their leadership. Then Lion
Stuart focused on the achievements of the Lighthouse. Dan Stuart shared how the Lighthouse founder,
Tom Bingham, is honored annually at State Conventions by the presentation of Tom Bingham Awards
granted to persons and clubs for giving outstanding service and contributions to the Lighthouse. Lion
Dan noted the Georgia Lions Lighthouse has national prominence, as one of ten national recycling
centers for Lionism, as the one in Memphis serves adjoining

Stuart also described the Leader Dog program that begins with proper training of puppies to be Leader
Dogs. He challenged, "Why not sponsor and work with training for Leader Dogs today, to prevent a
hearing . impaired person from being hit by a car tomorrow?* The Board of Directors that met
February 1, 2005, at Toccoa Inn, reviewed initiatives begun at the January club meetings. The
Directors articulated the projected plans for the Pancake Breakfast February 26, the Chilly Open Golf
Tournament, March 5, and White Cane Days April Toccoa Lions held a Valentines Banquet February
10 to honor Lions with their ladies and Lions who are ladies. The room was decorated romantically
with hearts and flowers. All seated at round tables and were entertained in a romantic atmosphere with
dinner music provided by Cindy Tatum. Following the Valentine buffet dinner, a duet comprised of
Rose Ann Watson and David Ritcey presented a program of romantic ballads. Visitors were Mrs.
Brenda Sorrells, guest of Wayne Braswell; George Hosea, Guest of Russ Paxton and Dwight Smith,
guest of Virgil Megill at the Membership Emphasis meeting, February 24. In anticipation Lions had
been asked to invite a prospective member. Ruth Payton directed attention to visitors, and designated
several Lions to describe their responsibilities and duties as members. The Board of Directors meeting
March 1 at the Toccoa Inn at 6:30 a.m. continued to implement projects that had been scheduled. lion
Mary Ann Mojica, chair of Sight Conservation reported to the Board, the Committee had processed
applications and approved applications to provide eyeglasses locally for three persons in need. At the
March 10 Club Meeting Calendar Committee Chair Kevin Vanderhoef said there were still calendars
for 2005 at his office for Lions who had not delivered their orders. Lion Kay Royal reported there were
14 contestants participating in the March 5 Chilly Open Golf Tournament at Higher Walk Golf Course
in Victoria Bryant State Park. lions working at the new concession pavilion there were appreciative of
the stoves and electrical outlets in the new building. Assuming this year the facility was not available,
as when two

years earlier the Chilly Open Tournament was held at Victoria Bryant State Park, the Committee had
brought five canisters of hot chilli prepared in Toccoa ready to be served along with sandwiches at the
concession stand. They realized that in the future chili could be prepared on the Higher Walk premises.
On March 13 Lions Ruth and Virgil Megill represented Toccoa Lions Club at the District 18-D Third
Cabinet meeting conducted by Governor Robert "Bob* Robinson, held in Clegg Auditorium of North
Georgia Technical Institute in Clarkesville. At the opening Terry Overby offered the Invocation, Vice-
Governor Beverly Shirley led the Pledge, and Clarkesville Lions Club Vice-President Rhonda Seabolt
gave the welcome in place of President Joy Lovell. Governor Robinson announced the winner of the
drawing for the Biltmore House Escape in Asheville, North Carolina, a fund raising project to cover
District 18-D administrative expenses. The winner was Bill Hix of the Jefferson Lions Club. Robinson
described preliminary work for the formation of the Homer Lions Club. He reported he had attended
each of the Georgia State Conventions of the five other districts. He announced the Fourth Cabinet
meeting scheduled to be held May 1, and the New Officers' Training Session to be held May 14 at the
First Baptist Church in Dahlonega. He spoke of his visiting the Southeastern Guide Dog Center, plans
for the Lions State Convention to be at the Airport Marriott, May 27-29, and the Lions International
Convention to be held in Hong Kong. Judge Haynes Townsend from Dalton, speaker at the March 10
club meeting, addressed Toccoa Lions Club as one of three candidates for Georgia International
Director. One will be chosen at the 2005 Georgia Lions State Convention to be on the Lions
International governing body. As a thoroughgoing Lion he briefly referred to his personal profession as
judge, and spoke primarily from his role as Georgia State President of the Georgia Lions Lighthouse.
At the March 13 District Cabinet Meeting in Clarkesville Vice-Governor Beverly Shirley was elected
District 18-D Governor for 2005-06, Ken Thurman from White County Club in Cleveland elected
Vice-Governor, and Bruce MacKenzie from Oconee Club in Watkinsville elected as District Vice-
President of the Georgia Camp for the Blind. No nominations were made for District Librarian, a
position formerly held by Virgil Megill, and vacancies were referred to the District Governor Elect.

Jimmy Lewis addressed Toccoa Lions at the March 24 club meeting as Financial Advisor of the
Stephens County Clinic. He proposed the outreach of the Clinic to provide work opportunities for
indigent people, to develop projects for the unemployed, such as scrubbing floors and painting walls.
He has been mobilizing cooperation to help to provide medical assistance for persons with no health
insurance. He has 1 solicited contributions, using the "Faith Day" theme, to be designated toward a free
clinic (Open Arms Clinic) for persons with no health insurance. He has received cooperation from
medical offices, to contribute free samples of medicines, donated by professionals, to give to those
inneed. White Cane Day was observed April 8-9 at Ingles, Quality Foods, and Wad-Mart. Wayne
Carpenter arranged for assignment of lions and their time slot designated to receive donations at the
three locations. Some funds were received in reply to letters sent to organizations and businesses that
were invited to contribute to White Cane, The total received for the White Cane contributions for the
Georgia Lions Lighthouse, including donations at the three locations and those received through the
mail, is $1,736, with possible additional White Cane contributions to be received later. At the April 14
meeting, Ruth Payton presided and called on Larry Earhart for the opening prayer. Harold Atkinson led
in the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the singing of *My Country Tis of Thee.* Lion Tamer Harold
Atkinson then ordered the tables to go through the buffet line. After announcements, Ruth Payton
called upon Lion Chris Carswell to announce the program. Lion Chris introduced the speaker, Robin
Baker, Stephens County Land Appraiser. He explained the proposed property reappraisal in Stephens
County. With him attending was Sue Robinson from the Toccoa Appraiser's office, who along with
Robin Baker then shared information and answered questions about property evaluation that is taking
place now in Stephens County. The necessity for equalization and respect for all who are concerned
was pointed out. Baker noted the effect of property values on taxes, and the role of responsible citizens
to meet public needs. Lions received brochures on "Revaluation Equalization 2005* for Stephens
County* with information about the significance of land equalization, distributed to those present.

Treasurer Kay Royal submitted the report for third quarter 2004-05 In the Administrative Fund total
income was $6,634.07, Total expenses $5171.24, with beginning balance $696.06, ending balance
$2233.89; Activities Fund (for others), total Calendar project receipts. $3,973.38, with net after cost of
calendars, a net of $2,352.05; Mops and Brooms outlay, $882, and net gain $248.24; Pancake Breakfast
$2,049 receipts net from sale of tickets; Chilly Open receipts $4,970, a net of $3,665.10; and Tail
Twister Fines totaling $102.77, applied to the Christmas for the Needy in the Activities Fund. The
Lions Junior Baseball Team in the Little League System opened with its first game, April 23, 2005, and
the eleven games were scheduled to continue through May 26, 2005. All games were held at Doyle
Street Park. The manager was Greg Phillip, and Coaches were Lonnie York, Greg Phillips Jr., and Dale
Roberson. Players were Jamie Hawkins, Joshua Mitchell, Christian Johnson, Nick Alexander, Michael
Simmons. J.R. Roberson, Holden Ray, Corey Cleveland, Jonathan Adams, Ben Dunson, Dallas
Garrison, Tucker York, and Corey Hilton. At the April 28 club meeting Ruth Payton welcomed
everyone, including two visitors present at the meeting. David Hooper was a guest of Lion Loyd
Prewett, and Andy Childs was a guest of Lion Wayne Carpenter. The president then called on Wayne
Braswell to offer the opening prayer. The Lions then sang "My Country Tis of Thee." Ruth Payton then
called on Larry Earhart, Chairman of the Nominations Committee, to present the slate of officers for
the 2005- 2006 Lions Club year. The slate was voted and approved as submitted. She then called on
Henry Fields who conducted his Tail Twisting session and made his rounds of fining Lions. The Lions
Club officers for 2005-06 elected at the April 28 club meeting were Ray Cornell, President; Wayne
Braswell, First Vice- President: David Stancil, Second Vice-President; Chris Carswell, Third Vice
President; Joe Vaughn, Secretary; Beverly Vanderhoef, Assistant Secretary; Kay Royal, Treasurer;
Henry Fields, Tail Twister; M.C. Stow, Parliamentarian; Larry Earhart, Chaplain; Irving Hellenga,
Assistant Chaplain. One Year Directors chosen were Suzanne McDonald, Mary Ann Mojica, Steve
Spruill; and Directors (Two Years), Jim Nelson, Al Rohrig,

and Nick Thomas. Also maintained on the Board, is Immediate Past President Ruth Payton. President
Ruth Payton then introduced Past District Governor Irving Hellenga at the April 28 meeting for the
induction of Jimmy Lewis. Lion Irving gave a thorough review of the purpose, background, outreach,
and achievements of Lions Clubs International. He cited the lions as one of the most constructive as
well as the largest of the civic clubs in the world, to meet human need. He praised Toccoa Lions Club
for their accomplishments through the years. * Lion Irving Hellenga then called Jimmy Lewis and Ruth
Payton to the podium and presented Jimmy Lewis the packet of materials for new members, while Ruth
Payton, his sponsor, pinned the official Lions pin on his lapel. Jimmy Lewis had been instrumental in
setting up clinics in several Georgia communities, to offer free medical care for indigent citizens who
do not have medical insurance. Toccoa Lions Club showed interest to join in support of his proposal of
an "Open Arms Clinic* in Stephens County. Toccoa Lions sponsored Athletic Team in the Junior
League began its season April 26 through May 24, with players Jonathan Adams, Nick Alexander,
Corey Cleveland, Ben Dunson, Dallas Garrison, Jamie Hawkins, Corey Hilton, Christian Johnson,
Joshua Mitchell, Holden Ray, J. R. Roberson, Michael Simons, and Tucker York. The Little League
Cook Out to recognize the team, was held at Henderson Falls Park June 9. Attending the District
Fourth Cabinet Meeting, May 1, in Helen were Ray Cornell, Virgil & Ruth Megill, Richard & Mary
Ann Mojica, Ruth Payton, and M.C. & Amelia Stowe. District Governor Bob Robinson presented
district awards and towels for the year, which in previous years had been given at during the state
conventions at district breakfasts, recently cancelled to make a more streamlined state convention.
Toccoa Lions Board of Directors met May 3, 2005, at Java Station with Lions present Kevin
Vanderhoef, Welton Carpenter, Andy Crawford, Ray Cornell, Henry Fields, Irving Hellenga, Virgil
and Ruth Megill, Mary Ann Mojica, Ruth Payton, M.C. Stowe, Joe Vaughn, and host James Thomas.
President Ruth Payton presented requests that were considered but no action taken, one regarding three
High School students asking financial

help for a trip, and also by The Shepherd's House" for a donation toward troubled families. The Board
authorized printing of club tri-fold brochures Attending the Top Five Banquet at Georgia Baptist
Assembly, May 10, 2005, were Wayne & Noreen Braswell, Andy & Mary Sue Crawford, Irving
Hellenga, Ruth and Virgil MegUl, Mary Ann and Richard Mojica. Jim and Twyla Nelson, Ruth Payton,
Dave Stancil, M.C. Amelia Stowe, and James Thomas. The speaker was Dr. S. Gordon Moore from the
Office of State Minority Education Development in Atlanta. At the May 12 club meeting Stephens
County 911 Coordinator Paige Crocker traced planned readiness for any emergencies with the Fire and
Police Departments and Stephens County Hospital ambulance crews. M.C. Stowe installed the 2005-06
club officers at the club noon meeting, May 26, at Gate Cottage. Attending the State Lions Convention
a Hapeville, May 27-29, were Ruth Payton, M.C.& Amelia Stowe, Virgil & Ruth Meglll, and Mary
Ann Mojica arriving on the closing day. State Librarian Olin Newby presented a second place award
for number of visitors at club meetings during 2004-005 to Ruth Payton. At the June 7 Board Meeting
held in the Conference Room of Toccoa Inn, President Ruth Payton reported on the State Convention,
she as Region One Chair for 2005-06, James Thomas as District Chair for Lions Services for Children,
and Larry Earhart on the Region One Nominations Committee. Beverly Vanderhoef was appointed
club assistant secretary. The Board discussed the Film Festival possibility, a project other clubs in the
district have adopted. At the June 9 Cookout at Henderson Falls Park, Chris Carswell representing the
club called the name of each player on the Lions team sponsored by the club, as Manager Greg Phillips
presented each a picture of the team with its coaches and manager. In turn Manager Greg Phillips gave
Chris Carswell a baseball signed by each Lions player in the Junior League. Three members of the
Lions team were chosen for the All Stars team-Ben Dunson, J.R. Roberson, and Holden Ray. President
Ruth Payton presented awards and recognitions at the June 23, 2005, club meeting. For years of
membership she recognized Russ Paxton. 10 years, Virgil Megill 15 years, Wayne Carpenter 25 years,
M. C.

Stowe 30 years, Welton Carpenter and Claude Smith 40 years, Joe Vaughn 47 years, Frank Edmonds
50 years, Irving Hellenga 52 years, Willard Kimsey 54 years, Ed Aklns 57 years, Andy Crawford 59
years. She recognized members of four teams that Included all members, in a contest of activity,
headed by Roger Andrews/Ray Cornell, Dave Stancil, and Ruth Payton. She presented certificates of
membership to new Lions Jtmmy Lewis, Suzanne McDonald, and Dwight Smith. At the July 14, 2005
club meeting newly installed President Ray Cornell reviewed projects for the coming year, including
the possibility of the Film Festival. He noted each Lion is assigned to a committee either under the
president or one of the vice-presidents Wayne Braswell, Dave Stancil, or Chris Carswell. The club at
the July 28 meeting discussed proper observance of Stephen County's birthday. Among Lions who
participated in various capacities at the Centennial Parade included Wayne Braswell, Chris Carswell,
Ray Cornell, Andy Crawford, Frank Edmonds, Irving Hellenga, Virgil Megill, Dave Stancil, and Joe
Vaughn. Mary Ann Mojica reported the Toccoa Public Library had received a Large Print Edition of
the New York Times, the payment sponsored by the Lions Club. The Library had not received the large
print edition of the Readers Digest, also sponsored by the club. The library received a magnifying
reader presented by the club. Toccoa Lions at the presentation were Ray Cornell, Mary Ann Mojica,
Ruth and Virgil Megill, and Nick Thomas, who chaired the effort and gave personally toward it JHe
has also designed created a reader for himself and others, that reads print audibly for the blind. Toccoa
Lions at the August 11, 2005 club meeting heard Ken Eggers and Andy McLean from the North Geora
Processing Company expand interest and economic growth from existing opportunities. They traced
already the development of economic possibilities, from producing principal products, to creating also
new businesses, manufacturing, and processing enterprises. At the August 28 club meeting, guests were
Jane Finley, editor of the Georgia Lions state newspaper, and her husband Lion Roger, a native of
Toccoa. Addressing the club, she reviewed her experiences and that of her husband with Adairsville
Lions. She showed appreciation for Toccoa and

Stephens County, as his mother, Eunice Finley, has been living ay Clary Center. Jane Finley praised
Toccoa Lions for its past district governors, and presently for James Thomas in his Lionism concern for
children, also Ruth Payton as Diabetes Awareness Chair "moving up now as Region Chair." She cited
impact of Steve Spruill on Diabetes, M.C. Stowe as District Leader Dog chair, and Larry Earhart on the
district nominations committee. She acknowledged the state awards given to Toccoa Lions at the 2005
State Convention. When President Ray Cornell welcomed District Governor Beverly Shirley at her
official visit to Toccoa club, September 8, 2005, she acknowledged her role to bolster the full
possibilities of Lionism. Then she admitted to Toccoa Lions, her goal was "not to beat up one of my
favorite clubs," but to "appreciate and commend what Toccoa Lions are already doing." District
Governor Beverly then challenged, "You can take pride in the achievements of Lions," as she rehearsed
the worldwide comprehensive impact of Lions Clubs International. President Ray Cornell for her
official visit presented from the club a handmade Angel Afghan made by Lion Ruth to District
Governor Beverly Shirley. Lion Kay Royal, responding in her treasurer's report dining the official visit
of the District Governor, and as an optometrist regarding hurricane damage, announced that Lions
provide free eyeglasses for those lost if documented by E-Mail, as Lions work with the Red Cross.
President Ray Cornell urged promptness of Toccoa Lions in submitting their orders and sales for the
2006 year Lions Calendar. At each meeting in the autumn season, members were encouraged to get
new customers, to retain existing customers, and to submit orders by October, so delivery of 2006
calendars could be printed and made available before Christmas of 2005. Members heeded the request
and the order was submitted in time for delivery of 2006 Lions Calendars before Christmas. President
Ray Cornell aggressively promoted each project and Lions opportunity. He noted that applications
were in order for nominating deceased as well as living members to the Lions District Hall of Fame.
Accordingly, Toccoa Lions nominated to the District Hall of Fame W.J. "Dub" Andrews was the first
the "charter" president of Toccoa Lions Club when it was formed in 1933.

"Dub" had been Region Chair over northeast Georgia within District 18- A, prior its division to create
18-D. As 18-A retained clubs in northwest Georgia, then W.J. Andrews became the first District
Governor of 18-D for northeast Georgia. Toccoa Lions on September 6, 2005, submitted the name of
W. J. Andrews for membership in the District Hall of Fame. Ray Cornell led the September 22
meeting, but Vice-President Wayne BrasweU introduced, Jim Thompson, co-founder of the Northeast
Georgia Youth Science and Technology Center (NGYSTC, who in turn Introduced Paige Carithers. To
Toccoa Lions at their October 13 club meeting Mitchell Griggs as executive director of the Stephens
County Development Authority, traced the economic history and progress of the county, from an
agricultural to a manufacturing, and then to the present information base with its new technology. Judy
Lance, speaking to Lions a Gate Cottage, October 27, traced the -Read at Home" program within
Middle Schools. She described the cooperation of school and home to encourage private reading,
according to the student's interest potential, and ability. She said the Read at Home program seeks to
encourage and stimulate goals and values beyond any specific daily lesson, through the cooperation of
parents with teachers. At the November 10 club meeting at Gate Cottage, Peace Poster Chair Mary Ann
Mojica honored winners in the local 2004-05 Lions Peace Poster Contest held at Stephens County
Middle School. Art Teacher Cathy Jameson had challenged her art students, ages eleven to thirteen, to
compose entry posters on the Lions Clubs International theme, "Peace Without Boarders." Guests at the
recognition included Middle School Principal Coach Tony Crunkleton, Art Teacher Cathy Jameson,
First Place Student Winner Shelby Smith and her mother Robin Smith, and Second Place Winner
Cheyenne Minnear and her mother Denise Simmons. Guest speaker at the November 10 club meeting
was Dave Palmer. As coordinator, he described the Stephens County Emergency Preparedness Training
Program that involves services of the Stephens County Hospital's nurses and ambulances, the county's
Fire Departments, and volunteer Environment Health Concerned Workers to check for any epidemics,
and to provide immunizations.

Lloyd and Mona Prewett and Virgil and Ruth Meglll attended the District Hall of Fame dinner
November 11 at St Paul United Methodist Church in Gainesville, when eight new living new entrees
were announced, Although no deceased Lion has yet been entered into the 18-D Hall of Fame, Toccoa
Lions illustrated and alerted all Georgia Lions that deceased as well as living Lions could be
nominated. Attending the afternoon Lions District 18-D Cabinet Meeting at Gainesville Civic Center,
November 12, 2005, were Ruth Payton as Region Chair and Virgil Meglll. District Governor Beverly
Shirley commended clubs of District 181-D for their increase in membership to sustain the required
1250 district membership. She was aware failure to sustain 1250 membership could cause the
dissolution of District 18-D, when clubs of 18-D would possibly become a part of District 18-A for all
of north Georgia, as existed before 18-D was created. In the evening, November 12, the speaker at the
District Rally held at Gainesville Civic Center was Past International Director Albert F. Brandel from
West Hempstead Lions club, who is a police detective from Melville, Long Island, New York. Those
attending included Andy and Mary Sue Crawford, Irving and Myra Hellenga, Virgil and Ruth Megill,
Mary Ann Mojica, Ruth Payton, and Loyd and Mona Prewett. Ruth Payton announced the benediction
at the end of the rally. Meeting at the Cornerstone Restaurant December 6, 2005, Toccoa Lions Board
of Directors attended to the "Christmas for the Needy* project Tail Twister fines for the year totaled
$278. The cost to give about $80 clothing per family will make the total of about $2000. The Board
noted Lions have submitted fewer foodstuffs than in previous years. Donated toys would continue to be
delivered at Kevin Vanderhoef s office at the Stephens County Eye Clinic. Delivery date of foodstuffs
and Christmas toys for the families to be served was set for December 13, the last day of the public
schools before the holidays. Chris Carswell announced delivery and pick-up of Poinsettias to benefit
the Administrative Fund at the Northeast Georgia Bank on Big A Road. Dramatists Georgia Newman
and Jim Powell led Toccoa Lions at their Christmas Party at Gate Cottage, December 8,2005, in the
program "A Season of Light" Their music, both serous and humorous, highlighted the Joy and meaning
of Christmas in various historic traditions. Guests included spouses of Lions, widows of past Lions
Marian (Mrs. Conrad) Anderson, Frances (Mrs. Grover) Head, Elton (Mrs. Ray) McKnight

Johnnie (Mrs. Billy) Smith, also Martha Morgan, and former Toccoa Lion now Lavonia Lion Randy
and Cheryl Shirley. Lions "Rang the Bell" for the Salvation Army, December 9, at the Toccoa Wal-
Mart on Big A Road.
2006
Toccoa Lions at their Board Meeting at Cornerstone Restaurant in the downtown mall, January 3, 2006,
and planned for hosting the Region Meeting set for January 30 at Qulncy's. They reviewed the
poinsettia project and planned for the Valentine Party and the Pancake Breakfast Three Toccoa Lions
participated in the fifteenth annual observance of the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., January 7 -16.
2006. For more than a decade lion Henry Fields has presided at the public Litany in the public service.
Lions L.J. Harrison and Willie Woodruff have taken part in the various activities for all ages. The
celebration included an Art Contest Senior Citizen Reflections, Oratorical Contest, Talent Fashion
Show, and Youth MusicaL Attorney Willie Woodruff is Toccoa City Judge, and L.J. Harrison teaches
at Stephens County High School. Christina Lennon from the Georgia Lions Lighthouse addressed
Toccoa Lions at their January 12 meeting. She outlined the work and impact of the 300 Lions in
Georgia working through the Lighthouse. Lion Beverly Vanderhoef announced a Visions Screening
had been held at Stephens County High School, and that the Health Fair would be at Stephens County
Middle School, January 13. At the January 26 Club meeting, the speaker Amy Allen, representing the
Stephens County Head Start (pre-K, outlined its services held at the Walt Whitman school building
center. The program currently enrolls 127 children from ages three to five. Toccoa Lion Jimmy Lewis
explained the progress on the Open Arms Clinic to be started In Toccoa. Toccoa Lions participating in
the Region Meeting, January 30 at Toccoa Quinces were Ray Cornell, Irving Hellenga, Willard
Klmsey, Virgil and Ruth Meglll, Ruth Payton. Loyd Prewett Dave Standi, and Amelia and M.C. Stowe.
Present were Vice-District Governor Ken Thurmond from Cleveland, and District Governor Beverly
Shirley from darkesville.

Toccoa Lions celebrated Valentine's Day at their meeting held February 9, 2006 at Reflections
Restaurant. Lions had used this location several years ago while Gate Cottage was being renovated. To
demonstrate the Valentine spirit, Larry Earhart gave assignments to each table, to compete, and the
winning table to be honored. The contests compared or contrasted expressions of affection of men,
women, children, and pet animals, and the responses of each, that were evaluated and rewarded. Every
Lion and each table were to participate. Lions at their February 23 meeting put finishing touches
toward the Pancake Breakfast the following Saturday, February 25. President Ray Cornell called Frank
Edmonds forward to receive his "50 year pin in Lionism." At the meeting Lions fifty years or more
who were present included Andy Crawford (1946), Ed Akin (1947), Willard Kimsey (1951) and Frank
Edmonds (1955). Each Lion was assigned some responsibility at the Pancake Breakfast February 25,
including advanced preparations, serving as cooks, assignments on the serving line, handouts for the
drive-ups, and clean-up afterwards. In evaluation for next year the breakfast the club agreed to
purchase two griddles to supplement the existing one, and to borrow other grills that Lions possessed.
At the Third Cabinet Meeting held in Hiawassee, March 12, Toccoa Lion Ruth Payton, who has been
Region I Chair the past year, was elected to be Vice-Governor Elect of 18-D for 2006-07. Toccoa
Lions present at the meeting held in Hiawassee United Methodist Fellowship Hall, were Mary Ann
Mojica, M.C. and Amelia Stowe, and Virgil and Ruth MegilL Bill Mundy from Dahlonega Loins Club
was elected District 18-D Vice-President of the Georgia Lions Lighthouse. Each of the six districts in
Georgia has a vice-president of the Lighthouse. Stephens County Deputy Sheriff Tim Jarrell briefed
Toccoa Lions, March 9, on plans for the new county jail. The new facility for 200 beds would replace
the present building with 103 beds. Included in that number are beds presently for twelve women, but
Jarrell said there are fourteen female inmates. Regarding public opinion and possible complaints by
neighbors, he confessed there is adequate acreage across from the present jail to

prevent remarks like, "not in my back yard* or "too close to a school.* The existing building would be
used for storing Stephens County records. Jarrell reported the most common crime the sheriffs
department finds are credit card frauds and identity theft He said youth as young as fourteen have been
arrested for Internet type thefts. Presiding Vice-President Wayne Braswell announced that Claude
Smith had received word that the Mitchell Allen Foundation paid the club $1300 to cover the expenses
of the Pancake Breakfast. At the March 23 club meeting historian Ray Ward described much more
interest in Toccoa since the Historical Society has been relocated in the former railroad depot, and the
stable used by paratroopers trained at Camp Toccoa, that was flown from England and was
reassembled adjacent to it. The paratroopers were flown to the continent and dropped behind the enemy
line with radio transmitters, to alert Allied forces invading Normandy. Toccoa Lions held their Chilly
Open Golf Tournament April 1, 2006, at Highland Walk Golf Course at Victoria Bryant State Park. It
was a warmer day than lions experienced for its 'Chilly Open* Golf Tournament of any previous year.
Shotgun Start was at 12:30 p.m., and with no morning responsibility, there was less work required of
Lions. Ray Cornell brought refreshments he prepared at home, and drove his golf cart throughout the
course occasionally to refresh players with cold drinks and warm chilli. Vice President Wayne
Braswell opened the April 13,2006 Lions Club meeting at Gate cottage, and called on Irving Hellenga
for the opening prayer. Andy Crawford led the Flag Salute, and the club sang "My Country *Tis of
Thee* Guests included Luis A. Ortiz, pastor St. James United Methodist Church; Misty Hawks from
Eastanollee; Bucky Payton, son of Lion Ruth Payton, and his family Carol and Brittany; Beverly
Wyatt; and Sue Mayfield. Wayne Brasswell explained the pleasant experience of meeting a man who
had gratitude from an organ donor, and after an extended period of waiting, finally received a new
heart from the donor. lion Wayne invited him to address Toccoa lions, and introduced him to the club,
the speaker for the day, Robert L. Williams, the heart transplant recipient. Robert Williams
enthusiastically promoted Donor life Month, and the privilege of others to wear a Green Ribbon as a
donor. He expressed

appreciation also to Lion Irving Hellenga who recommended an EKG, and who initiated the process
that led to his receiving a new heart from a donor With extreme gratitude for the heart he received from
a donor, with intensive prayer beforehand, and gratitude afterwards for the donated organ, Williams
excitedly coupled his feeling, and his own philosophy, with sensitivity toward the others who shared in
the surgery In a long view, he expressed thanks for aLi who participated, prior to the transplant, in
preparing his own attitude toward life goals from his childhood, then those who encouraged htm during
the years of waiting. Finally he showed gratitude to the donor and the donor's family that gave
permission for the transfer of the donor's heart for him. President Ray Cornell at Gate Cottage, April
27, welcomed Lions, ready to hear City Manager Bill Morse. First, Lion Ray asked the secretary, Joe
Vaughn, to report on his wife's surgery and medical condition. With sympathy, then Lion Ray similarly
told of his visiting of his wife's sick mother in Tennessee. Lion Ray reported Ed Akin was in Clary
Center, Andy Crawford in Norcross, and asked Larry Earhart to give the Invocation and to lead the
Pledge of Allegiance. Larry led the 'singing of "My Country Tis of Thee.* Tail Twister Henry Fields
made his rounds among the Lions. Lion Ray gave a report on the Georgia Lions Camp for the Blind
Work weekend. He said the club received a letter of appreciation for lions' Ringing the Bell for the
Salvation Army. He said the club, by action of the Board, is now participating in the Children's Film
Festival, and when the plans are made public, club members should already know the action of the
Board that has approved this project. The Children's Film Festival project had in the past been used by
a number of lions and other organizations. Outsiders do the primary work using the club name, and
some Lions clubs have received about $2000 for their participation. lion Ray announced he would be
calling past presidents together to recommend a person to succeed Wayne Brasswell, as first vicepresident,
when he returns to Royston. Regarding plans for the installation of officers for next year,
Lion M.C. Stowe reported Past International Director Dr. John Peace has accepted the responsibility of
installation of

Toccoa lions officers, May 25, for the 2006-07 year. Ruth Payton gave an update on the Open Arms
Clinic building project. After being introduced by Lions President Ray Cornell, Toccoa City Manager
Billy Morse, recognized Lion Claude Smith, former mayor with whom he worked as a council member
in two specific terms. Billy Morse praised the many volunteers who have participated in the local
government of the city and county. Billy Morse reflected the cooperation of the public and
governmental officials working together for the community. He discussed public services provided by
the City of Toccoa, in water, gas, fire, police departments, its golf course, the airport, and recreational
department. He reviewed maintenance of public buildings, cemetery, and other services, their
perspectives and goals. Outside city government, he observed the impact of the new Currahee
Technical School campus, the new Middle School, Toccoa Falls College, the Industrial Parks, the
growth around Lake Hartwell, the impact of old and new businesses, and public interest by such
organizations as the Lions Club. He praised city employees for their services, and the wide respect for
educational, cultural, economic, and general well being of citizens for each other.

May 25,2006 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell. Andy Crawford led the Pledge
to the Flag. Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked the blessing. Installation of Officers M.C.
Stowe introduced Dr. John Pierce, Past International Director, Dr. Pierce congratulated District
Governor Beverly Shirley on the increase in membership in District 18-D. He said that enthusiasm for
Lionism is the key to growth. In looking over the line-up of new officers, he noted that Lions come in
all shapes and sizes. Some are tall, some are short, but all are Lions. He urged us to look to the past but
also look to the future. He shook the hands of each of the new officers. Open Arms Clinic Ruth Payton
reported on the Open Arms Clinic and thanked everyone who came and volunteered their time and
effort on the work days. The next work day will be on June 10th. We will be painting on that day.
Jimmy Lewis will be moving out of our area, so we are now seeking someone to fill his position. " less
Lighthouse M. C Stowe reported on funds sent to the Lighthouse. We collected $1258. on White Cane
Day. Walmart added $ 1,000. to that, and Walmart also gave us $500. on the opening day of the new
Walmart Supercenter. We have sent a total of $2758. to the Lighthouse. Children's Film Festival Ray
Cornell reported on plans for the Children's Film Festival. Kay Royal told us that she has deposited
$6,000. so far and has written a check for $2,000. for expenses. Junior League Baseball Chris Carswell
reminded the Lions about our annual picnic for the Lions Junior League team. They will have a game
at 10:00 on June 10th, and the picnic will follow at 12:00. Tail Twister Our Tail Twister Henry Fields
exempted us today, Lion President Ray Cornell thanked the club for their encouragement for the
coming The meeting was adjourned at 1:00 p.m

June 8.2006 The meeting was called to order by Lion Chris Carswell in the absence of President Ray
Cornell Lion Jim Nelson gave the invocation and asked the blessing. Lion Andy Crawford led the
Pledge to the Flag. Announcements: Ruth Payton announced that there will be a work day at the Open
Arms Clinic on June 10. Chris Carswell announced that the Junior League game on June 10 has been
cancelled. The picnic, however, will take place at the field at 12:00 noon as planned. Program:, rThe
speaker was Jim Shurley who gave a program regarding the report of the Consolidation Study
Committee. The committee had focus groups and analyzed the financial condition of Toccoa and
Stephens County. One source of revenue would be from grants. If there was consolidation, there would
be a larger population and thus bigger grants. Shurley urged the Lions to let the candidates know their
feelings regarding consolidation one way or the other since this is an election year. The complete report
of the committee can be downloaded from the City of Toccoa website, the Stephens County website
and the WNEG Radio website. The meeting was adjourned at 1:00 p.m.

June 22,2006 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell. Lion Larry Earhart gave the
invocation and asked the blessing Lion Andy Crawford led the Pledge to the Flag. Tail Twister: In the
absence of our Tail Twister, Ray Cornell collected 25 cents from each member, plus an extra 25 cents
from Larry Earhart for not having any Lion identification. The total collected was $7.46.
Announcements: Andy Crawford announced that he is trying to find a lost scrapbook from the 1970s.
Lions were encouraged to turn out for the Children's Film Festival. Deadline for Calendars is July 13
The next Board Meeting will be on July 11, since the first Tuesday is on a holiday. Welton Carpenter
has turned in $800. for mop and broom sales. All Lions are encouraged to purchase these for
themselves. Irving Hellenga asked the club to support Lion Ruth Payton in her new role as Vice
District Governor. Thanks were extended to Lions Ruth Megill, Virgil Megill and Joe Vaughn for
many years of faithful service to the club. Program: Induction of new members, R. D. Smith and Joe
Young Lion M. C. Stowe gave a history of Lions Clubs. There are now 1.3 million members
worldwide in 192 countries. There are 1200 members in the state of Georgia. We are in Region 1, Zone
1, District 18D. The two new members were welcomed and received their new member packets and
pins. The meeting was adjourned at 1:00 p.m

July 13,2006
Lion Year 2006/2007
The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell. Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked
the blessing. Andy Crawford led the Pledge to the Flag. The President acknowledged this month's
birthdays and anniversaries Announcements Today is the deadline for calendars. If not turned in yet,
members must get their orders in to Jim Nelson as soon as possible. Art Conway is working on the
bulletin. He asked that articles and pictures for the bulletin be sent to his e-mail: artfbctoccoaaalltel.net
His deadline is 10 days before the first meeting of each month, approximately the 25th of each month. .
," . The Cabinet Meeting date has been changed from July 30 to August 6 in Cornelia. Ken Thurman is
still seeking a Zone Chair. There will be a work day at Open Arms this coming Saturday for cleaning
and painting. Work will begin at 8:30 a.m. Kay Royal presented the budget for the coming year. The
budget was brought to a vote. The motion was made, seconded and passed to accept the budget as
presented. The new club secretary, Mary Ann Mojica, asked all club members to get current on their
dues. New Member Induction Irv Hellenga gave a brief history of Lions and then inducted two new
Lions, Susan Mayfield and Ray Civitts, both sponsored by Lion Ruth Payton. The meeting was
adjourned at 1:00 p.m.

July 27,2006 The meeting was called to order by First Vice President Dave Stancil in the absence of
President Ray Cornell who is out of town due to a medical emergency with his mother- in-law. Pledge
to the Flag Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked the blessing. Visitors were introduced: Kieran
Clements, guest of Ruth Payton Tracy Burt of WNEG John Gailer, our speaker Announcements Board
meeting is next Tuesday, August 1, at Toccoa Clinic Calendar Sales: Jim Nelson announced that sales
are going okay, but we need someone who is computer savvy to do the actual production. Cabinet
Meeting will be Sunday, August 6,2:00. We will meet at the Java Station at 1:15- Open Arms Clinic:
We have received a donation of a scale from Curves of Toccoa. Megills: Dave Standi read a letter from
the Megills to the club. Toccoa Falls College Campus Club: The Lions will have a table at the TFC
Registration to try to sign up students for a campus club. Kieran Clements has agreed to be the faculty
sponsor. We will need Lions to man the table from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Bulletin: Art Conway sent
out the Bulletin by e-mail Program: JohnGailer, Stephens County Recovery Academy The challenges
youth are facing are: peers, parenting and public norms. Peers - It is cool to rebel and go against the
grain, to stand up against authority. Substance abuse is huge in our community, not just meth, pot and
cocaine but also prescription drugs belonging to parents and grandparents.

t* *: : ~.o._ ~t~ * ^ : rsci rtn Lu : Ath ^th Parenting is often absent or ineffective. When children are in
4 or 5 grade, they start getting into issues the parents can't handle, so they back off. Public norms: It is
no longer the norm just to question authority. Now it is the norm to dishonor and even destroy
authority. There is a welfare mentality, no taking of responsibility. There is glorification of celebrities
who do not have good values. False beliefs of youth: Those in authority are out to get me. Life is all
about the breaks (nothing to do with making good decisions and working hard). Compliance is
surrender and shows weakness False beliefs are learned through life experience and are as real as true
beliefs. Decisions and behavior flow directly from one's beliefs whether they be true or false.
Punishment often serves to reinforce and intensify false beliefs. Stephens County Schools expel 35 to
40 students each year for more than 90 days. They come back to school worse than when they left The
Stephens County Recovery Academy was born to reverse that It prepares kids to go back to school and
succeed. They now have a four year track record. 83% of those who go through the Academy return to
school and graduate from high school. The program Is relationship based. Each participant is given a
young adult coach. The program is responsibility centered. They are told, "It's your mess. You have to
clean it up." The changes have to be real. It is a very structured and intense program. Results: 1. Early
re-entry to school 2. Strengthened support system 3. Improved communication skills 4. Decisionmaking
5. Increased graduation rates 6. Decreased drop-out rates

August 10,2006 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell. Andy Crawford reported on
Ruth and Virgil Megill. Joe Vaughn reported on his wife Mary who is completing her treatment.
Introduction of Guests: Kim Hellenga, guest of Irving Hellenga Jim Halsey, Chief of Respiratory
Therapy at Stephens County Hospital, guest of Irving Hellenga Lion Andy Crawford led the Pledge to
the Flag. Lion Irving Hellenga gave the invocation and asked the blessing Program: James Thomas
spoke on the Open Arms Clinic The clinic is not ready to open, but they are getting close. The
projected opening is the end of September or beginning of October. There is still some painting and
finishing to do on the building. There is also a lot of paper work involved in getting a not for profit
organization started. Dr. Kay Royal reported on how the vision services will work The clinic will be for
chronic disease management, such as diabetes. The projected budget for the first year has not been
determined yet It could be $50,000 to $70,000. The Lions Club has no liability issue, because we are
donors, not sponsors. The Children's Film Festival has guaranteed us $2400. per year, and that has been
determined to be the amount we will donate to the clinic. If the festival makes more money for us than
the amount guaranteed, we as a club can decide whether to give more to the clinic or to use that money
for other projects. Stephens County Hospital will give $50,000. in services (lab tests, etc.) for three
years from their indigent fund. We have eight physicians and physicians assistants already signed up.

Award: Wayne Carpenter was presented a 25 year chevron Announcements: Ray Cornell asked for
help in putting the calendar together. Saturday, August 19, Toccoa Falls College will have their
Registration Day. We will have a table there and talk to the students about a campus club. Tail Twister:
Henry Fields fined President Ray Cornell for putting the tail twisting last in the program, because 3
people had to leave early and he could not collect from them. He collected a total of $14.71.

August 24,2006 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell. Andy Crawford led the
Pledge to the Flag Lany Earhart gave the invocation and asked the blessing. Reports were given on
those who are ill: Ruth and Virgil Megill Mary Vaughn Mona Prewett Introduction of guests Steve
Alligood, our speaker Gary Steppe, Superintendent of Schools Myron McClain, Assistant
Superintendent for Properties Announcements: The calendar is almost done. We will have it in to the
printer a month early this year. Ray Cornell thanked those who came on Saturday for the Toccoa Falls
College registration day. We got the names of 27 students who expressed an interest in forming a
campus lions club. We received a certificate of appreciation from Leader Dog for our contribution.
Program: First Vice President Dave Standi introduced our speaker, Steve Alligood who spoke to the
club regarding the SPLOST Referendum. Previous SPLOSTS have produced added classrooms for the
elementary schools as well as the construction of the new Middle School which will be paid for in
another year. The new SPLOST will not be another tax, bur rather an extension of the one we already
have. Proposed projects: New High School for Stephens County New technology for classrooms New
school buses.

The decision on location of the new high school will be based on Safety Cost of land and land
development Location (traffic, utilities, accessibility) We currently have 32 temporary mobile
classrooms in double wide trailers. There are no windows in many of them, and that is a safety issue.
There are electrical cords running into adjacent classrooms for power. The new high school will
accommodate 1600 students, expandable to 1800. We presently have 1300 students. Estimated cost of
the new school is $38,000,000. The SPLOST vote will be on September 19. Lions were urged to get
out and vote. New member induction: M. C. Stowe inducted our newest member Luis Mendez who
was sponsored by Russ Paxton. Tail Twister: Henry Fields fined Ray Cornell for again putting him last
on the program. He collected only $2.50.

Sept. 14,2006 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell. He recognized all members
and guests and acknowledged the absence of Lions Ruth Payton and Mary Ann Mojica who are
attending the USACanada Forum on behalf of our club. He asked if we would remember them in our
prayers and ask for a great trip and safe return. Reports were given on those who are ill: Ruth Megill is
doing well except for the expenses of her cancer treatment. Ruth and Virgil hope the cancer will go into
remission and that they will be able to come home for a visit very soon. Mary Vaughn has been in the
hospital but is back home and doing better. Dr. Henry Fields had surgery due to a leg injury but is now
walking fine and back into the swing of things. Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked the
blessing. Andy Crawford led the pledge to the flag and assigned tables for the meal. The food was
great. We had a variety of sandwich bread, meat, chips and dessert. Very Tail Twister. Lion Henry
Fields certainly twisted some tails today. He collected $125 from almost everyone. He charged $ 1. for
not bringing a guest at the last meeting and a quarter for everyone who did not read the district
newsletter concerning our club. Afterwards Dr. Fields explained that Christmas is near and that the
money we raised would benefit the needy children in the community. Announcements Ray Cornell
reviewed a few items from the last Board meeting. He noted that one of our Board members, Ruth
Megill, will need to be replaced since she is no longer living in Toccoa. The Board has asked Ray to
make the decision and appoint a new member to the Board. Ray also expressed deep concern about the
low attendance at the last board meeting. Only three board members were present, and we cannot
conduct business with this kind of turnout. Program Program Chairman Dave Standi introduced our
speaker, Mitch Griggs, executive director of the Stephens County Development Authority. Mr. Griggs
reviewed what he has done for Stephens County since coming in June of 2005 and outlined his plans
for the near

future. He stated that the economic development authority was set up to purchase property and make
deals with private enterprise. Our local and county governments cannot make purchases due to their
restrictions. Therefore, his team makes this possible. He discussed land that included the industrial
parks set up to attract potential businesses. Mr. Griggs said that his team is comprised of a five member
board. The board is selected by nomination and is comprised of community leaders. He also spoke
about the way companies find out about Toccoa. The state of Georgia has a site located in Atlanta
which lists information about each county in the state. He explained that it was important for him to
make sure they have current data. We have to get past the first screening which is done by companies
electronically from the state's information database. Before Mr. Griggs came, an advisory board was set
up which has since been adjusted. He added several prominent leaders from the community, and now
forty volunteers have been selected and are appointed to several committees. Each committee
specializes in different topics and concern. Other items discussed were the asset of having North
Georgia Technical College in the area, a new website being done for our county and his team, and the
widening of Highway 17.

September 28,2006 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell Birthdays and
anniversaries were acknowledged. Reports were given on those who are ill: Mona Prewett is taking
chemotherapy. Mary Vaughn is also still undergoing chemotherapy. Wayne Braswell has to have a hip
replacement. Ruth Megill is still undergoing chemotherapy but hopes to be able to visit home soon
Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked the blessing Andy Crawford led the pledge to the flag.
Awards Ruth Payton presented Claud Smith a certificate of appreciation for 40 years of service to the
Toccoa Lions Club. Mary Ann Mojica presented to Ray Cornell the President's Diamond Club Award,
an honor given to him by Past International President Ashtok Mehta for club growth last year. Program
Dave Stancil introduced our speaker, Mr. Joe Ferguson, Chairman of the Stephens County Foundation.
Mr. Ferguson spoke to us about the Tugaloo Corridor and the preservation of the historical area,
Prather's Bridge and a prehistoric Estatoe Indian village, and the creation of a recreation area extending
from Tallulah Gorge in Habersham County all the way to the bridge area at US 123 in Stephens
County, as well as an educational site. He stressed that education and preservation are the goals not
development Tail Twister Welton Carpenter was called on to act as Tail Twister today in the absence
of Henry Fields. He collected a total of $27.80.

Oct 12,2006 The meeting was called to order by 1* Vice President, Dave Standi. Guests were
introduced by Ruth Payton: DG Ken Thurman, and our speakers Louise and Gene Little. Reports on
those who are ill: Mary Vaughn, Ruth and Virgil Megill, and Evelyn Richardson, mother of Mary Ann
Mojica who recently had back surgery. Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked the blessing. '. less
. Andy Crawford led the pledge to the flag. Announcements We are to drop off toys at Stephens County
Eye clinic and canned goods at Family Eye Care for our Christmas project The deadline for that is
December 14 Lions will ring the bell for the Salvation Army on December 15. There will be a dinner
and auction on October 26 to raise funds for the Open Arms Clinic. Tickets are $15, and the event will
take place at the First United Methodist Church. We have lots of great items for the auction. Tickets
can be obtained from Ruth Payton, Kay Royal or James Thomas. The dinner is at 6:00 and the auction
at 7:00. There will be a Zone Meeting on Monday, Oct. 23, 7:00 p.m. in Hartwell. Tail Twister Since
Christmas is coming soon, the tail twister collected a minimum of $2. from every Lion in addition to a
few special fines. The total collected was $82.25. < Program Our speakers were introduced by Lion
Ruth Payton. Louise and Gene Little are members of the MERL team (Membership, Extension,
Retention, Leadership). All clubs are down in membership/ People are busy, and there is never enough
time to do all that we want to do. But we have to help people understand. We have to show people in
our community what Lionism is all about We have to have good programs and invite people to come.
Most people want to help in the community but don't know how; We can have some kind of member
recruiting event We should wear our Lions emblems whenever we are out and about. It shows that we
are doing things in the community. How do we retain members? One way is meetings: fun, food and
fellowship. Everyone who comes through the door should be greeted and made to feel welcome. Don't
let anyone sit alone. We need a good tail twister to inject some fun into the meeting. We should
discourage cliques. The sponsor of a new member should stay in close touch with that member for the
first year.

October 26,2006 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell. Introduction of guests: In
addition to our special guest, District Governor Ken Thurman, we also had Henry Fields'
grandchildren, Sydney Fulbright and Sam Fulbright Reports on those who are ill: Ruth Megill is not
doing well. Cora Smith (Vernon's wife) is not doing well. Mary Vaughn is having another treatment
today. Irv Hellenga gave the invocation and asked the blessing Andy Crawford led the pledge to the
flag. Announcements: Open Arms Clinic is having a fund raising auction tonight. Kay Royal has
tickets. Poinsettias - Chris Carswell has the brochures today. The admin account needs help, so we
need to get out there and sell. Calendars have arrived. Canned goods should be dropped off to Kay
Royal and toys to Kevin Vanderhoef. Tail Twister: Henry Fields collected $5. from each member plus
25 cents from Claud Smith for his birthday. He also fined those who got their dessert before the
blessing and Andy because he introduced the District Governor and forgot to mention the Governor
Elect In all he collected $129.31. Program: First Vice President Dave Standi introduced our speaker,
District Governor Ken Thurman. Ken started by promoting two special events. The first was the
District Rally J1 Til t L-1J ? i""* ? ?11 XT 1 1 Ath 1 1 1 th TL 1 o.xl- Ji which will be held in
Gainesville on November 10 and 1 lm. The speaker at the dinner on the 1 Ith will be International
Director Terry Graham. Ken also announced that January 13th will be celebrated as the birthday of
Lions International Founder Melvin Jones. All the clubs are asked to do something for their community
on that day. The District Governor's theme for this year is "Reach for the stars". He has set some lofty
goals for our club. The first is to increase membership to 200 members. The second is to retain the
membership we already have. The third goal is to have more community involvement and awareness.
Local service, activities and events should be well known by the community. We need to advertise in
our local newspaper and wear our Lions vests with pride

November 9,2006 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell. Introduction of guests:
Our guests included our speaker Bill Mundy, Bill Kellogg and Jim Halsey. Reports on those who are
ill: Ruth Megill is improved; Mary Vaughn had her last treatment yesterday. Sue Mayfield is in the
hospital. Vernon Smith's wife Cora passed away. Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked the
blessing Andy Crawford led the pledge to the flag. Tail Twister: Henry Fields fined all Lions who have
not brought in canned goods to Kay Royal. The total collected was $155.80. Program: Bill Mundy of
the Georgia Lions Lighthouse was our featured speaker. He told us that 55% of Lions Clubs do not
contribute to the Lighthouse. However, that is not true of District 18D. 27% of donations to the
Lighthouse came from 18D last year, and this year so far it is about 30%. Every dollar raised buys $4.
worth of services. 20% of every dollar goes for hearing services, 70% for vision services and only 10%
for administrative costs. Every year the Lighthouse Foundation dispenses more than 500 pairs of
eyeglasses and more than 700 hearing aids. We are the only non-profit resource in the state of Georgia
for low-cost hearing aids. Now we are averaging more than 170 sight-saving surgeries per year. Our
goal is one surgery per day.

Minutes - January 11,2007 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell Guests were
introduced: Speakers: Billy Morse and Connie Tabor Rev. Ford Ash, guest of M.C. Stowe Jennie
Spruill, guest of Steve Spruill (his daughter) Cathy Fritchman, guest of Suzanne McDonald Lion Larry
Earhart gave the invocation and asked the blessing. Lion Andy Crawford led the pledge to the flag. Tail
Twister, Henry Fields, coLiected a quarter from each member in honor of those who had birthdays
recently, Dr. Hellenga, Russ Paxton, Beverly Vanderhoef and Loyd Prewett He collected a total of $
11.77. The speakers were introduced by Lion Suzanne McDonald. Billy Morse, the Toccoa City
Manager, brought greetings from our new mayor, David Austin. He told us that the city now had 165
employees, which is a reduced staff from previous years. There is a lot of experience on the current
staff. Many have been on staff for a lot of years. The ten department heads have a total of 240 years of
experience. Morse then told us about each of the ten department heads and their accomplishments.
Connie Tabor then informed the club about the progress in revitalizing the downtown area. The canopy
removal and opening of Doyle Street has begun. On January 22 asbestos removal will begin, and in
February we will see removal of concrete and the progress will become more visible. Demolition will
be done by a local contractor. She also told us that the tree ordinance will help us make Toccoa a place
we can be proud of. She concluded by stating, "Toccoa is back, and we're here to stay!"

Jan. 25,2007 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell. Introduction of guests Haynes
Townsend, speaker Charles Ritter, Pastor First Methodist Kathy Jameson, art teacher Titus Dalton,
Peace Poster 1st Place Winner Chelsea Marie Snyder, 2 Place Winner Parents of the Peace Poster
winners Irv Hellenga gave the invocation and asked the blessing. Ray Cornell led the pledge to the flag.
Announcements Open Arms Clinic had over 50 people at the volunteer orientation. They will officially
open on February 6th, Valentine's Dinner will be February 8 at Gate Cottage, 6:30 p.m Peace Poster.
Beverly Vanderhoef introduced the winners. The theme this year was "Celebrate Peace". Titus Dalton
was awarded $50. for first place, and Chelsea Marie Snyder was awarded $25. for second place. Tail
Twister: Henry Fields fined President Ray Cornell $2. and let everyone else off the hook for this time.
Program: Ruth Payton introduced our speaker, Judge Haynes Townsend who spoke to us about the
Georgia Lions Children's Eye Care Center at Emory. For the past 45 years, Lions have had an ongoing
relationship with the Emory Eye Clinic. In 1963 the Georgia Eye Bank was started. Emory wanted to
start specializing in children's eye diseases. They needed to raise $ 117,000. for a DNA sequencer.
Some people doubted that amount could be raised in less than a year, but $123,000. was raised, and the
sequencer was purchased. The Georgia Lions Children's Eye Care Center and the Georgia Lions Eye
Research laboratories are now located at Emory. Treatments have been developed for 5 difference eye
diseases of children. They are also working heavily on macular degeneration which is the leading cause
of blindness in people 55 and older. Emory has already succeeded in stopping the progression of
macular degeneration in mice.

Feb. 22,2007 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell. Introduction of Guests: Dr.
Mickey Rice - a Lion from Anderson, SC James Black - guest of LoydPrewett Lynn Crunkleton -
Speaker Reports on those who are ill: Ruth Payton has had knee surgery and is doing better but could
not be here today. Ruth and Virgil Megill will be in Toccoa tomorrow. Their daughter will pick them
up and stay with them over the weekend and their son will be here Tuesday. They will be here until
march 3rd. Ruth's cancer is in remission but she is very weak. They will need someone to stay with
them on Monday and Tuesday until their son gets here. Lions members will take turns visiting on
Monday. Mona Prewett is doing well. Jim Nelson gave the invocation and asked the blessing Andy
Crawford led the pledge to the flag. Announcements: Board of Directors will meet March 6 at First
Baptist at 7:00 a.m. Proceeds from the Pancake Breakfast so far come to $1642. We don't know yet
about expenses. Chtfly Open will be March 31. Kay needs help. M. C. Stowe and Ray Cornell
represented the Toccoa club at the Zone Meeting on Monday. It was reported at that meeting that 18D
gave $10,000. for Leader Dog. That is ｫ i * 1 /rth r.i .ii j.j.ｻ A_ii_.*: almost l5m of the whole state's
contribution. Program: Lynn Crunkleton has been at Stephens County Hospital for 27 years. She
reported on the many services offered at the hospital. Southern Rehab Services offers physical therapy,
occupational and speech therapy. New Impressions is a 9 bed maternal child unit The hospital has 500
births per year. Kids Korner is the pediatric unit Wilkinson Center is a 40 unit assisted living center.
Clary Center has 42 beds for those who need more care. Stephens County Hospital is the county's
largest employer with 600 employees. They have 35 physicians, 50 volunteers, 96 hospital beds and 82
personal care beds. They have doubled the ER area. They see 20,000 ER patients per year. Third West
has 17 private rooms. New construction will give more private rooms. Stephens County EMS has
beautiful new facilities. Stephens County Hospital was the first in NE Georgia to get an open MRI unit
They now have digital mammography, totally filmless.

March 8,2007 The meeting was called to order by Dave Stancil. ., Introduction of guests: Rev. Mickey
Rice and speaker Sandy Hatfield. Report on those who are ill: Ruth Payton reported that her mother-inlaw
fell yesterday and broke her hip. She is scheduled for surgery today. Larry Earhart gave the
invocation and asked the blessing. Andy Crawford led the pledge to the flag. Tail Twister Henry Fields
fined everyone 50 cents, because he was not here last meeting to collect fines. The only exception was
Dave Standi who had to pay $1. because he did not start the meeting on time. Total collected was
$15.53. Announcements Pancake Breakfast - Claud Smith obtained a donation from the Mitchell Allen
Foundation for $1500. which will be added to the amount from ticket sales. Chilly Open - We only
have six teams so far. We all need to talk it up to get more teams. White Cane - M.C. reminded us to
bring cookies on White Cane day.; Relief Effort - Ruth Payton is going to Americus, Georgia to help
with the Americus Hospital Relief Fund We are sending $1,000. to help with that effort. The slate of
new officers was presented. Cabinet Meeting - The meeting will be this coming Sunday at 2:00 at First
Baptist Church. Program Chris Carswell introduced our speaker, Sandy Hatfield, Volunteer
Coordinator for United Hospice. She told us that hospices have only been around since 1977. There are
34 hospices in Georgia. They offer palliative care as opposed to curative care. If a , person has six
months or less to live, and they do not want to continue curative care, they can receive hospice care.
This has mainly to do with chemotherapy. They feel that they have had enough and do not want to
continue. The patient is treated on many levels including emotional, mental and spiritual levels. They
are kept comfortable and pain free. Volunteers provide comfort and caring companionship. They are
the heart of hospice. Volunteers provide 5% of total care. That is mandated by Medicare. Hospices
have patient and family volunteers, office volunteers and bereavement volunteers. Training is provided.
There is an inpatient unit at Duluth as well as home units and nursing home units. TB screening, drug
screening and background checks are done on every volunteer applicant.

March 22,2007 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell Introduction of guests: Joyce
Youngblood Ellen Alligood Roseann Watson Anna Cronic Samantha Mongagna Dacia Hulsey Guest
of Joe Young Andy Crawford led the pledge to the flag. Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked
the blessing Announcements: White Cane Days are coming up soon. A sign-up sheet was passed
around for Lions to choose a time slot. Program: Larry Earhart introduced Roseann Watson, director of
the Stephens County High School Ladies Trio. They entertained the club with lovely renditions of
"Early One Morning, an English folk song, and "Chapel of Love".

Aoril 12.2007 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell. Introduction of Guests: Clif
Walton, transferring membership from Columbus, GA Mickey Rice Bill Reeves, Clayton club Kristi
Dills Donna Dills Bryan Gordon Report on those who are ill: Ruth Megill is in the hospital waiting for
surgery on a fractured foot. Marvin Mauldin has shingles. Myra Hellenga is having pain and not feeling
well. Andy Crawford led the pledge to the flag. Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked the
blessing New Officers: The roster of new officers was read by President Ray Cornell, and the club
voted to accept it as given. A motion was made and seconded to accept The motion was passed.
Announcements: White Cane Days are this coming Friday and Saturday. Members were reminded to
bring cookies to give away at Wal-Mart The Children's Film Festival is being postponed until August
because of health problems of the promoter's husband. Larry Earhart will chair this event The Chilly
Open Golf Tournament netted $2668. Program: Bill Reeves from the Clayton Lions Club spoke about
the Feel Good Project. Their club has taken on the raising of funds to send 5 high school musicians to
Chicago for the Lions All State Band. First Chair Clarinet, Kristi Dills, spoke about the needs for
funds. Each band member needs to raise $750. So a total of $3750. is needed. A motion was made and
seconded to present the need to the Board at the next board meeting in May. The motion was passed.

April 26,2007 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell Visitors: Speaker, Dr. Thomas
Howell plus three potential members, Clif Walton, Brian Gordon, and Matthew Steele. Report on those
who are ill: Ruth Megill is holding her own. Myra Hellenga had a myelogram and is waiting for the
results. Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked the blessing Andy Crawford led the pledge to the
flag. Tail Twister: The Tail Twister announced the engagement of Dave Standi and exempted him from
a fine, because "he will need every cent he can get his hands on, a ij.. r* c i i * j i t ; i i a? t z-iSt jj Andy
Crawford was also exempted, because he is celebrating his 61s1 wedding anniversary. Everyone else
was fined $1. He collected a total of $28.63. Program: Jim Nelson introduced Dr. Thomas Howell of
the Northeast Georgia Counseling Center. The Northeast Georgia Counseling Center is an
interdenominational ministry. They do pastoral counseling, family and marriage counseling and grief
counseling. Dr. Howell's own father died suddenly of a heart attack when his son was only 13 years
old. It was a long time before he got any counseling. He thought God took his father because of
something he had done. When he finally got help and realized that his father died because he was a
smoker, was overweight and other factors, he knew that he wanted to be that kind of catalyst for
someone else and that was what he wanted to do with his life. Earlier in the program Andy Crawford
had given a piece of advice to Dave Stancil about how to have a happy 61 year marriage. He told Dave
that the secret is to kiss your wife every morning. Dr. Howell said he had a different piece of advice.
He picked up a coffee cup and told about the time he and his wife had an hour to kill, so they went to a
restaurant and had a cup of coffee together, and they talked for that hour. On leaving the restaurant, his
wife commented "I feel closer to you right this minute than I have felt in months" When he asked why,
she said, "I had your undivided attention for a solid hour." Since that day, they sit down every morning
and have coffee together. Investment in each other's lives results in a 61 year marriage. The gift of time
is significant.

Announcements This coming Sunday is the 4 Cabinet Meeting in Helen. We are to bring plates,
utensils and $2. for spaghetti. We received $1,000. from the Mitchell Allen Foundation for White Cane
Day. We have also applied to Wal-Mart for another $1,000. Board of Directors meeting is May 1 At
the first meeting in May we will have installation of officers. June 1-3 is the State Convention,

May 10,2007 Installation of Officers May24,2007 Junior League Pizza Party June 14,2007 The
meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell Introduction of Guests: Dr. Rex Patterson, our
speaker Harold Atkinson, former member of the club Irv Hellenga gave the invocation and asked the
blessing. Andy Crawford led the pledge to the flag. Program: Our speaker was Dr. Rex Patterson who
spoke to the club about the Boy Scouts. Scouting is not what it used to be. Kids used to love to get
away from home to get out of doing chores. Now it's hard for kids to leave the TV, computer games,
and the fridge full of soda and get out into the woods for a weekend. Scouting is not considered cool.
Who wants to wear uniforms? But what makes scouting worthwhile is that with scouting everybody is
first string. Everybody gets to play. Scouting helps to build kids who know they are good at something.
Scouting basically has not changed. The requirements to get to Eagle rank is the same as it has always
been. In scouting, kids learn a lot of things they don't get to learn anywhere else. Induction of New
Members: Three new members were inducted District Governor Ruth Payton inducted our three new
members: James Black, sponsored by Loyd Prewett Bryan Gordon, sponsored by Ray Cornell Forrest
Connelly, sponsored by Andy Crawford

June 28,2007 The meeting was called to order by President Ray Cornell. Introduction of Guests: Today
we had six guests, four of whom were from Wal-Mart of which two were from the local store. The
store manager, Karen Jensen was present to " , in . witness her employee Heather Lockridge receive ah
award from the local club for her ~ service in assisting the Toccoa Lions in receiving matching funds
for donations received .^ at the annual White Cane Day.; Jhe amount raised by the club w^ ｣ 2' W&
matching funds, ToccoaLions were able to send $ "'" to the Georgia Lions Lighthouse. The other guests
from Wal-Mart yrere Brian CamplU pd (oreR^ ^mn the District Office. n Vf.; >s ., , >.-.. Other guests
were Broward Garrison, a guest of Andy Crawford, and Rodney Black, a guest of Daye Standi..
Broward is fi Past.Preside^ of the jasper Uons. Rodney fc is currently employed by AFLAC insurance
^gency ui tocco. Lion Irv Hellenga gave the invocation anii asted the blessing..^ Andy Crawford led
the pledge of allegiance to the flag. Award: After the meal,jpresident ayopaell presented Heather
jckndgeyitb a framed award acknowledging herancl g her for her service to the clul before the
appointed time and Lion James Thomas was fined 50 cents for spilling ice on the table. The fines
collected this day were $8.85. Announcements: ;-fim'.:ou. ;T; . ,^ wｻ b--Mytit :TV^ h--> "... " Dr. Kay
Royal reported on the Open Arms Clinic whicnhas $ervpd ｣ 46 patients pince opening in February,
2007. ,; " , ,..' ..., . . , Dr. Irv Hellenga advised the club that he has in his possession a vision machine
for use by patients with macular degeneration, he is making this equipment available to anyone with
that need. Lion Andy Crawford thanked the club for their support of him as the Lion Tamer, and Lion
President Ray Cornell thanked the club members for their assistance to him in the past two years,
acknowledging that none of the success of the club would have happened without total cooperation.

July 12,2007
Lion Year 2007/2008
The meeting was called to order by President Dave Standi. Introduction of Guests: Lion Ray Cornell
had three guests today: Jennifer Mangiapane, Director of the local Red Cross George Tatarchuk,
Director of the local YMCA David Wells, a retired New York City policeman whom Ray met .
attheYMCA Reports on those who are ill: Irv Hellenga gave a report on the health of Lions Virgil and
Ruth Megill in California. Lion Irv Hellenga gave the invocation and asked the blessing. " Lion Tamer
Jim Nelson led the pledge of allegiance to the flag and gave a quiz to determine the order of the tables
for meal service this day. Tail Twister. After an enjoyable meal the infamous Tail Twister Henry Fields
began his extraction of funds from the membership.'. " ** " "" ｻ y '- ｻ - Program: Lion President Dave
Standi talked to the club about a book which he has been reading from Truett Cathy, CEO of Chick
Filet titled" ｻ BSliMilir3M3-i3iIIii President Dave relayed that communication from the members and
the community would be - ~* important to the success of the club in the coming year. President Dave
handed to the ' membership a plan of the committee assignments and a calendar of events for this year.
The last item mentioned at the meeting was the date of March 24,1933 which was the date the Toccoa
club was chartered. This is significant as the year of 2008 will be the 75th anniversary of our club.
President Dave closed the meeting.

July 26, 2007
The meeting was called to order by President Dave Standi.xm- Introduction of Guests: Barbara Lolley
* Martin Lions Club > .ete" $.owe':> iｫ *r yr ｻ 7oAngel Smith ^Granddaughter of LoydPreWethC
Joshua Joseph - Intern at Ebenezer Baptist Church, guest of Wayne Carpenter. Report on those who are
ill: JA report was given on the status of Lion Ruth Megiltion Marvin > ｫ thoqt* Mauldin is also having
problems, and Ruth Carpenter is in the hospital for tests. ainxteD n< nH Lion Larry Earhart was asked
to have our blessings^ eii! bA& cum no-.toixjvrri k-ｻ wvsc ｻ p vi; " r. rj Lion Henry Fields was asked
to lead our pledge to the flag and.then assign pur tables. ?i ^ ^ｫ ": ? r.oij vfcD ai'ii soi03 iｫ ^m >rt
3Mm-' t-r'- v.; ^ok Tail Twister After our meal the Tail Twister was loosed upon the membership. He
told several stories which brought mixed reviews. He felt the club's ability to understand some of the
stories *iiwy 'i reflected upon their education or lack thereof. He did fine everyone, which has come to
be nut 1c nor m.-: expected. Members now know to arrive at a meeting with plenty of change. Even
folding money has been requiredadJon Henry collected a total of $16.05; a* kfrAii isw;Z ｬ vG
j'nsb3ci noiJ :rni-r.? ''JoXkl5iiWii5' &SM -leii-i /briO !o Q'3'J y.llO iifjjt? 'fmt p'iaisfl Report on
Cabinet Meeting: After the Tail Twisterfinished, President Dave told about the $vｫ 0 uvrtxMri cabinet
meeting he, Lion;MarvinMauldin;Lion Mary Ann; MojicarDG Ruth Payton; Lion M. CU oJ ;n-ncqr.i
Stowe and Amelia attended In Snellvillev.GA' The Club now has a web site on which the national
winｻ err and international web Sites dan be accessed. >& *'. '. ｫ kM *o ｻ teb ｫ nj asm priterfｻ en? jb
ivf ｻ crr. in m* .dnioiuo to ^68ievinnf; nW ｣ rt) sd Hi* $00* *o icoy sHi -xb .tnrjilhpic ｫ i ｻ .i'J
.beitmr.- *v< ":.t Children's Film Festival: Lion Steve Spruill told of his contacts with the personnel in
charge of ; in^^r- the children's film festival which will be held in October. Bulletin: Lion Dave
advised that Lion Bryan Gordon will be putting the newsletter together. Anyone with news should
contact Bryan at 706-886-5787 or by email at brv. qorwindstream.net. Calendar Sales: Lion Ray
Cornell talked about the 2008 calendar sales. Lists were passed to members at the 07-26-07 meeting.
Others will be mailed or hand delivered. They are due back to Lion Ray by the date of 08-23-07 which
is the second meeting in August Costs will increase with board approval to $7.00. Program: Lion Kay
Royal was the guest speaker and talked about the Open Arms Clinic. The clinic opened in February,
2007, serving a high population of uninsured. Anyone who has no insurance available can apply for
assistance for a medical problem for preventative health, diagnosis and treatment of chronic disease,
health education .specialist referral, basic prescription medications or referral to other support agencies.
The clinic cannot provide service for gynecological exams, sports physicals, emergency care, pain
management, narcotic prescriptions or treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. To be eligible
financially, a patient must be within 125% of the federal poverty level. Currently the clinic needs
additional funding as it does not receive any government funds. In eleven counties in Northeast
Georgia there are approximately 70,000 people, about 17% uninsured. Currently their costs for
prescriptions run about $200 weekly, but there are also costs for utilities and insurance for the building
and for personnel (liability. The services of personnel, i.e. doctors, nurses, clerical and custodian is all
volunteer Funds come from donations and fundraisers. For additional information on how to support
the Open Arms Clinic contact Jamieson Tax service or Dr. Kay Royal through Family Eye Care. The
meeting was adjourned by President Dave Standi.

August 9,2007
The meeting was called to order by President Dave Standi. Introduction of Guests: Marshall Bradley,
Guest of Dave Standi Chris Floyd, Asst Mgr. Travelers Rest Historic Site Alan Ramsey, Friends of
Travelers Rest Report on those who are ill: Ruth Megill is confined to bed at present She and Virgil
continue to live in California near their son. Marvin Mauldin will have knee surgery on Monday at
Stephens County Hospital. Irv Hellenga gave the in vocation and asked the blessing. Jim Nelson led the
pledge to the flag and gave table assignments. Tail Twister: Henry Fields, our Tail Twister, was loosed
upon the membership and garnered $18.65 in fines. He paid particular attention to Lion Willard
Kimsey who was apparently unaware of the reason for this (affliction or affection???). Business: After
our meal, Lion Dave Standi led our business report He brought to the attention of the club issues that
were brought before the Board on Tuesday, 8/7/07: ,. i."":" : .- ;. ｻ 1. Rodney Black's application for
membership was approved. 2. Budget for the year 2007-2008 was presented. M.C. Stowe made a
motion to accept the budget as presented The motion was seconded by Ray Cornell. The motion was
passed unanimously. Ray Cornell reported on calendar sales, requesting members to accept names from
the lists of those no longer members and asked that aLi information be turned in by the second meeting
in August, 8/23. - v v Dave Standi advised the members of tickets for the support of Lions Project for
Canine Companions. Members were requested to see Lion Dave for tickets. Program: Lion Chris
Carswell introduced our speaker, Chris Floyd, Assistant Manager for Travelers Rest Historic Site in
Toccoa, and Alan Ramsey who is one of our local attorneys and who leads a citizens group known as
The Friends of Travelers Rest Chris told the club about the history of the site.. American Indians
inhabited the area.. During the late 1700s Jessie Walton was granted a 400 acre site for his service
during the American Revolution. A home was built on the current site in 1789, but the inn was not built
until 1815. It was built as the first stop for travelers, and every 20 miles another inn was built into the
wilderness in what is now Rabun County. In 1950 the inn became an historic site and is now operated
by the Department of Natural Resources. It is open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and tours are
given for a fee. There is very little funding for programs, about $200 per year. Chris is trying to
develop several programs to add to the Christmas and Confederate Day programs he currently leads.
He hopes to be able to have built buildings for interpretive programs, films and a museum to house
some of the artifacts from the early period of the inn's history. Alan encouraged everyone to support
this local project with ideas, action (volunteering) and financial assistance. Failure to do so could
possibly cause some of our local history to be forgotten to our children and grandchildren and to those
having not grown up in this area. Brochures were made available to lions Club members.

August 23,2007
The meeting was called to order by President Dave tancil. ,We met todav i 'L ^.w. >f * lllcl iuaay in the
President's Dining Room on the Toccoa Falls College campus.. ,.,ｫ , Mn less Report on those who lire
ill: Lion Maiiri'Mauldin'feitcover Chaplain Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked the blessing.
Lion Tamer Jim Nelson led the pledge to the flag.* v y; :ti .; ! As our setup wa$ different for this
meeting', everyone already had their mealed Since ' *r ** * the Tail Twister was absent, no one paid
any attention fo who went first. After the meal,';'" . ''''' President Dave Stancil lead the business
meeting. Induction of New Member: District Governor Ruth Payton inducted Rodney Black into l f
ｻ W:Ih in iTviTi Jl *kid ｻ M ifcM in wmTW tw3KiH liMJ I ilMiii J iT*l i " Ifmikf "* in TSrfli Rodney
was welcomed into the club. He and his wife Nicolei havetwo chiidreriifHe is )U J employed as an
agent of the AFLAC Insurance Company. ; : ' ' , ' ^ ', w ' Recognition: The President acknowledged the
outstanding service of several Lions, Willard Kimsey, Andy Crawford and Wayne Carpenter, for their
calling of Lions to remind them of meetings and for their informing the club of the deaths of Lion Ruth
; Megill from our club and Lion Doyle Green who was an active participant in this state from another
club, i ..... in Also doing a great job upon joining the Toccoa Club is Lion Bryan Gordon who has
taken on the newsletter and added some new ideas. Our newsletter can now be found in the offices of
the Open Arrhs Clinic, Stephens County Hospital, arid the offices of Lions Kevin Vanderhoef and Lion
Kay Royal. This will give the Toccoa Lions greater visibility in our community. Calendar Sales: Lion
Ray Cornell reported on the deadline for calendar sales as Friday. August31 . r ( f: Children's Film
Festival: Lion Larry Earhart reported on the Children's Film Festival. Currently calls are being made in
the community for sponsors, and Lion Bryan Gordon has placed in article in the Toccoa Record. Vests
and Shirts: Lion Mary Ann Mojica gave a report on the availability and prices of Lions vests and shirts,
advising those who want those items to see her after the meeting. Dahlonega 75tk Anniversary:
President Dave Standi reminded everyone that the Dahlonega Lions Club will have their 75m
Anniversary celebration on September 27. The cost of $20 per person should be paid before the
meeting. Anyone interested should see Dave Standi by Friday, August 31st. The meeting was
adjourned. niV't-/ w.* -'''.'; n'r. vmm ^fl 'iv/ ': i.ｻ i ;" -/ oomv ,uv >ri( 'm .> *..- fj :.'

Sept 13,2007
The meeting was called to order by President Dave Standi Introduction of guests: All were glad to see
Lion Virgil Megill present He was accompanied by his son Glen Megill. They were here to celebrate
the life of Lion Ruth Megill with a memorial service on Saturday, September 15 at Grace Chapel on the
campus of Toccoa Falls College. Other guests present were Donna Murray, guest of District Governor
Ruth Payton, and Ted Taylor, guest of Lion Bryan Gordon. Lion Larry Earhart gave the invocation and
asked the blessing followed by the pledge of allegiance and song "America the Beautiful**. Tail
Twister: After a delightful meal, the Tail Twister, Henry Fields, paid particular attention to Lion Claud
Smith who got TWO desserts and a hefty fine to go with them, then to Lion Welton Carpenter who
apparently did not have enough ice in this glass and poured it on the table, and lastly to Lion Bryan
Gordon for telling more than he should when introducing his guest Evidently Lion Bryan told some
things on Ted Taylor that were not known in the community. Well, after all, Ted has been telling things
on people for years. This was pay back! It appears the Tail Twister sheared the sheep for $ 10.71.
Recognition: President Dave Standi invited Virgil and Glen Megill t the front for a presentation of a
collage of photos from the service of Virgil and Ruth in our club. Glen remarked how much this club
had meant to his parents. He thanked everyone for the outpouring of love and concern. Reports: Lion
Ray Cornell gave an update on the calendar sales. All information has been sent to the company. *" ^ , .
Lion Larry Earhart gave a report on the Children's Film Festival set for 9/29/07 at 9:00 a.m. at the
Habersham Hill Cinema. All Lions are requested to be there with vests on to greet the children. Lion
Larry has tickets to give to the community. Any Lion needing tickets should see him. District Governor
Ruth Payton is traveling to different clubs and is in need of assistance to drive at night Anyone willing
to help should contact her. President Dave Standi gave an update on actions taken by the Board of
Directors: 1) All members are requested to own a vest and wear it to certain functions. This gives our
club high visibility in the community. Those who do not yet own a vest are to see Lion Mary Ann
Mojica. The cost varies according to the amount of cloth it takes to cover you. As Lion Joe Vaughn
used to say, "If the tentmaker has to work overtime, you pay." 2) The club accepted the resignation of
James Thomas and accepted the standing down from the - -* s *m :- r* ti j.. *~ c~ si.. J j s i~n '. i :.li.
...sii position of 1* VP Lion Chris Carswell due to family demands. Lions Chris and Nichole will
remain active in the club, but certain duties will change. 3) President Standi advised of the need to call
a meeting of the nominating committee next week. A date and time will be sent out Report on
USACanada Forum: Lion President Dave along with DG Ruth Payton attended the USACanada Forum
in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The theme was "Challenge to Change** with all the clubs being
challenged to reach out in their community to bring new members to work and spread the news of
Lionism. President Dave challenged each member to bring one new member, training them in Lionism.
He made reference to Lion Bryan Gordon's article in the local newspaper and the attention this gives to
our club. E-mails: Lion Art Conway gave us a list of updated e-mails of the members. Anyone whose
e-mail address is not listed or whose information is incorrect should contact Lion Art Lion Mary Ann
Mojica passed out our new club directories to those present See Lion Mary Ann if you did not receive
one. Lion Kay Royal advised the club of a golf tournament for the Open Arms Clinic on October 2_
with a start time of 12:30 and lunch at 11:30. Contact Lion Kay for more details.

September 27,2007 District Governor's Official Visit
Lion President Dave opened the meeting asking Lion members to introduce their guest^. Lion Andy
brought John Farrow' Liofl Kay brought Dr. Todd Cossar, and Lion Bryan brought Dan Dunn as their
guests. Twenty-five members wert present in addition toguesti 'bufl vw-wti) v.mii'itlin m.h; .yimut/ w-i
ｫ :* Chaplin Lion Jim asked thetlessin^ of our food followed by leading 6ur pledge and anthem.^Next
Lion'Jim 'w> J va.ordered the release of tables to me buffet After a great meal the Tail Twister
extracted $19.15'from the ^4* m "hyM'i *V 7 >.j? oi/ nY:m2 M.-r> t.Uflnof.5 iiJiinfc
fioJ.f ot ^h.-.cl bdｫ /jidwi *Hl n-./ It bit) ?, ...ib ｫ .' "i toi rfyiii', Vfjfi ion Mb sv.vjnMitt, Lion Dave
introduced our speaker, District Governor of 18-D, and Toccoa Lion Ruth Paytoa DG Paytofl *-'ｻ ｻ .ｻ
thanked this club for sponsorship of her effortsto better serve Georgia and specifically* 1S-D. She
Thanked (l >< ul Lion Willard Kimsey for his persistence in getting hcf to join the Lions and advised
those present not to**'T -'w give up on pursuit of those who may be too busy now but can serve later.
She also thanked Lion M.C. Stowe for his assistance with Diabetes Awareness as he traveled with her;
giving net* vital information on " >'-'iM the disease that she could share1 with other el ubs.'1 ' *Ji '-
i>*m ｫ W't: bfia ify.iv Doir- viU mrt*omUUwlio> Lion Ruth cited other actions which this club
sponsors and supports, such as, The Open Anns Clinic locally and statewide tile lighthouse for thd
BlihdVCamp for' the Btin$ Sight First II'Reading for Blind and1 ^lofj-itf Dyslexic. She passed on
information about a disease called "river blindness" caused by parasites which ^nitwi affects the eye.
Contributions form the Lions Clubs around the world has eradicated the disease in South America but
effort is cdntinuing in Africali ->""ｻ jUu:-
.m vii; ium'.' committee soon.

The meeting was called to order by President Dave Stancil. Introduction of Guests: Ed Hashbarger,
Speaker Yoriko Hashbarger, wife of speaker Yoskiko Taira, mother-in-law of speaker Florence
Gordon, guest of Bryan Gordon Kim Beecher, guest of Steve Spruill Dr. Todd Cossar, guest of Kay
Royal Report on those who are ill: No word on Marvin Mauldin Kevin Vanderhoef will have surgery
next week. Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked the blessing. Jim Nelson led the pledge to the
flag. Tail Twister: Due to the fact that we are getting close to the Christinas season, the Tail Twister
twisted a little harder than usual today. Those who brought canned goods were only fined fifty cents,
but those who did not had to cough up a dollar. Claud Smith was singled out, not only because he did
not bring any canned goods, but also because he was talking while the District Governor was
introducing our guests, AND he referred to the District Governor, Ruth Payton, as "he"! The total of
fines this day came to $33.55. Reports: Dave Standi read a letter we received from a woman for whom
we provided glasses. She was very impressed by the way she was treated with dignity and respect, not
only by Nick Thomas at the interview, but also by Kay Royal and her staff. ' Bryan Gordon reported on
the Dahlonega 75* Anniversary celebration Larry Earhart reported on the Children's Film Festival. 125
children and parents attended. Proceeds of $4,400 have been put into the Sight Conversation Fund.
Dave Standi reported on plans to attend the District Rally in November Beverly Vanderhoef reported
on the Peace Poster. The posters have been judged and the winners are on display at the public library.
Program: Our speaker, Ed Hashbarger, was introduced by District Governor Ruth Payton. Lion Ed
spoke to the club regarding Sight First II. The goal is to raise 200 million dollars. The funds raised by
Sight First I was spent over a 15 year period so that interest earned on the money increased the amount
available to the used. Funds are raised by personal donations. Lions who cannot afford to donate
personally can get businesses to donate, especially businesses they deal with on a regular basis.. Lions
can get a Melvin Jones Fellowship with the money they give to Sight First II, and pledges can be paid
over a period of time. Sight First II will bring low vision rehabilitation to areas where no such services
exist Even in the United States 1/3 of all children need eyeglasses and 2/3 of those do not have them.
River Blindness has been greatly reduced all over the world because of efforts such as Sight First II. It
takes only $6 to save a person from a lifetime of blindness. Lions can raise funds for Sight First II in
four ways: 1. Members'donations 2. Business donations 3. Fund raising events 4. Donations from the
club treasury If 10 people in the club got really excited about Sight First II, and 2 of those members
gave $ 1,000 each * $2,000 4 members gave $500 each - 4 members gave $250 each * The total would
be $5,000, and 833 people could be saved from blindness

October 25.2007 Lion Dave Standi, club president, opened the meeting at noon*/with recognition of
guests that had joined the meeting at Cottage Gate restaurant Steve SprUill introduced his guests,
Brooke Brown, and a UGA pharmacy intern student working at his drug store, and Jennifer
Mangiapane, Community Relations Officer,'' American Red Cross/ fJori' Dave introduced Barbara
Lolley, president of the Martin Lions Club. Lion Dave ' welcomed back Marvin Mauldin from his
recovery from surgery in mid August; Ruth Payton introduced her guests, Roger and Jane Finley, who
recently moved to Toccoa. Jane Finley is the editor of the Georgia State Lions Newsletter. Two
members reported that Lion KevinVanderhoefreturned home on 10724-07 from the hospital in Atlanta!
: ' He is doing wejl in'ids reroyjery at home.. tioQ.lry Helk^ prayer requests, and Lion Ruth suggested
we remember those Lions in southern >. California who have been displaced and/or are helping the
displaced fire victims. Lion Irv offered the grace for the meal. I ft f ") i V mil Cra ki il nt ffi i%I Fsft
r7Jm ｻ n I r Jy hi i Wl M J STSIII it i rJfｫ lo t:fJU :t irｫ the Beautiful. Lion Jim assigned tables for
release to the food buffet Lion Jim continued with a few jokes which entertained the club members.
After club members had a chance to eat and visit at their tables, Lion Dave, made some
announcements. District Rally in Gainesville is Friday, IsToyember 9th and Saturday, November 10th.
Two tables have been reserved for our club on Saturday night Get your $20 per person checks into
Ruth Payton for Friday and Mary Ann for Saturday quickly. The Christmas dinner meeting and party
are going to be Thursday, December 13* at the Georgia Baptist Campgrounds. Lion Barbara Lblley
encouraged everyone to'' join the Lions in Martin on Saturday the 27th for a chicken barbeque dinner.
She had tickets for sale wth her. - : lJ-. ,-4 .>t,.-.. ｻ au k> >Uvh.i,'svw; -. ,r':'v-.r. .. ^V1J; ?-. Lion
Henry Fields, Tail Twister, presented a quiz to the club members. Not a single v ' member could
answer the 'quiz and all Were fined $5.OOThat resulted in a collection of ( $138formeCstniasvmd., .t:S
., ,., ., .^ ,. W: ..; ,.. A, ^tl lt, ,... >i; ,., 5i5iorine vnsimasjunu.., .ttft -, iV, ., ,^ f. w. ; " .. .-. *- " --'-ｻ ^ vv.
Our guest presenter, Jennifer Mangiapane, gave the club members a multi-media : " i presentation
about me Pandemic Flu and faniU^ preparedness:! Jennifer explained the general services of the
American Red Cross; and men she shdwed a video of Pandemic Flu. In the discussion that followed she
explained ^efenpe ltween the seasonal flu which we can take shots for and pandemic flu which has no
immediate antidote. Jennifer passed out a brochure titled Family Preparedness Guide. Everyone was
encouraged to have a "two week supply kit" in their home. . :i ''',

November 8,2007 The meeting was called to order by President Dave Stancil In trod uction of guests:
Tevin Canady Otis and Charlene Canady Andrea de Sousa Beverly and Rachel Garside Report on those
who are ill: Kevin Vanderhoef is recovering from heart surgery and is walking about two miles daily,
which seems to surprise his doctors. M. C. Stowe was involved in an automobile accident on
November 7th. He is recovering in the hospital with a couple of broken ribs and some other concerns.
Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked the blessing Jim Nelson led the pledge to the flag and
assigned tables, Tail Twister: Our Tail Twister collected a total of $55 today. Peace Poster Winners:
Lion Beverly Vanderhoef introduced the 1* and 2nd place winners of the Peace Poster contest First
place winner Tevin Canady was awarded a check for $50. and the second place winner Andrea de
Sousa was awarded $25. Tevin was accompanied by his parents, Otis and Charlene Canady. Andrea is
an exchange student from France. Her host family was represented by Beverly Garside and her
daughter Rachel. New Member Induction: Lion Irv Hellenga inducted our newest member, Donna
Murray, sponsored by District Governor Ruth Payton. Lion Irv gave a history of Lions Internationa and
of Toccoa Lions and challenged Lion Donna to participation for the community and the world. !
Announcements? The Christmas Party will be at the Georgia Baptist Assembly on Thursday, December
13 at 7 p.m. The District Rally in Gainesville will be on November 9* and 10*. We have reserved two
tables which will accommodate 20 people. Christmas projects: We will have food and gifts for three
families. Kevin and Beverly Vanderhoef will have new clothes collected at their office. Kay Royal will
collect food at her office. Chris and Nichole Carswell will collect the toys. Thanks to aLi for their
efforts at putting this project together. 2008 Calendars: Ray Cornell reported that the calendars arrived
on Nov. 6 and are being distributed It is hoped that the calendars will all be distributed to our customers
over die next four weeks and money given to Ray at least by the time of the Christmas party so that it
can be given to the treasurer for deposit. There being no further business, die meeting was adjourned.

December 13,2007 Christmas Party January 10,2008 The meeting was called to order by President
Dave StanciL Introduction of Guest: Lion Ralph Williams from Martin Lions Club r.-i ... .." " .. .-,
i.jh.h ,yU j Report on those who are ill: Myra Hellenga is getting over a tooth problem and preparing
for hip surgery Mary Ann Mojica is recovering from back spasms that landed her in the hospital. M. C
Stowe is still on , the mend from his auto accident Virgil Megill has not been well in California, but he
is recovering. Joe Vaughn had bypass surgery and is preparing for surgery on his shoulder. Larry
Earhart gave the invocation and asked the blessing and prayed for those who are ill., - - ,y Larry Earhart
led thepledge to the flag,and Jim Nelson assigned Jhe fables. Iir - .-..... . : i , Tail TwisterjAs we were
finishing our fantastic meal, the. Jail Twister arose from his winter nap.to jnflict the pain of removal of
money from the post-Christmas group. He extracted a total of $11.45. .i-uj; Announcements: ,, .i: .:! i ^
"" -.. i ," ..-..'.'km-i* v-vw-ii.- .'nuLid ｣ :. .Mb- '" >' * .m-r-ni "'' Announcements: ,, . ^ti.ir: ,..ｫ Vi j i >iv
vuw-: wnuLu: t-.i....'.? " i; ｻ .' i .jiki ".:..< Dave Stancil commended Lion Nick Thomas for our
successful Christmas party. Both food and , ;> > less " ... entertainment were excellent A big thank you
to Nick for a job well done. . , !( ,. .-, ,.j wmh^ ,; !-'> Peace Poster report: Beverly Vanderhoef reported
on the continued success of Tevin Canady, the middle i i, school student who won first place locally.
He also won first place in the District and is now being '...-? nr^ considered at the state level. Tevin
received a standing ovation from his peers at school. .s Mt.v. 0: -* Calendar sales;, Ray Cornell
reminded everyone to get their money for calendars in by the end of January. *., Andy Crawford
reminded everyone of flie Valentine Party on February 7 at 7 p.m. at Gate Cottage, uo- t Russ Paxton
reminded us of the annual Pancake Breakfast set for February 23rd, Tickets will be $5, and those under
age 6 can eat Jree. !lU (...^ .. v! .., ; ,t... ,. .ii) . #-::* -.--* vrfir. -.trfi .; "" Program: Ralph Williams of
the Martin Lions Club spoke about a project their club undertook, Reading . for the Blind and Dyslexic.
The Martin club purchased a machine from which 6 students who are unable to see can listen to
recordings. These recordings are from books and magazines as well as text books. Lion Ralph
explained to our club what happens when a person has dyslexia. Words and letters are reversed in the
brain, causing difficulty in reading, because the person does not realize they are reversing the letters or
words. Lion Ralph advised that the cost of purchasing such a machine was $795 with an annual upkeep
fee of $350. With the purchase comes 25 CDs, and additional CDs may be purchased. There were
questions later, and all members thanked Lion Ralph for his information. There being no further
business, the meeting was adjourned.

January 24,2008 The meeting was called to order by President Dave Standi Report on those who are ill:
Dave gave a brief report on District Governor Ruth Payton who was involved in an auto accident on
Wednesday, January 16th. A report from her husband, Dr. John Payton, advises that she went into
surgery today to repair two broken legs. Other injuries were a broken collar bone and a deep laceration
about the face. She remains in Atlanta at Grady Hospital. Lion Irv Hellenga's wife Myra will have hip
replacement surgery at St Mary's Hospital in Athens on Friday, January 25th. Program: Today the club
entertained prospective members with a program telling them about the local, state and international
club. Different Lions had specific information to give to the guests. Lion Ray Cornell told about the
local fundraisers, where they come in our Lions year and how the money is used. Lion M. C. Stowe
told about our state projects, the Georgia Lions Lighthouse, Emory Eye Clinic, Camp Kudzu,
Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic, Camp for the Blind, Leader Dog for the Blind and the LCIF.
Lion Kay Royal spoke about the use of money by the Lions Club and advised guests of our continued
need for used cell phones, eyeglasses and hearing aids. She also took this opportunity to let us all know
about the upcoming golf tournament, the Chilly Open at Victoria Bryant State Park on Saturday, March
15 . Lion Beverly Vanderhoef told the guests about the Peace Poster contest, our Junior League
Baseball team and the Children's Film Festival. All the information seemed to be received well by the
guests as several indicated their interest in the club. The meeting was adjourned

February 7,2008 Valentine Dinner Wc had 47 members and guests on Thursday* February 7 fat our
annual Lions Valentine Guests were: "- u+ Emily Cash who played the piano during out meal and her
husband Morris vo^ u i< > Hobbou Al and Margaret Leitgeb who entertained us after our meal with
songs to sing and the- >.'jAjp, music they played on the piano and claririet.^ *.-? unn-> o'lro .-.( .'.'>
Uu-; w^ -clUvj ;:! /id Lion Virgil Megill and his daughter Caroline also attended our dinner. Virgil told
us they "? iｻ ^ ? were in town to attend a dedication of the first scholarship to be offered in the name of
ｻ n'/ Lion Ruth Megill by Toccoa Falls College. Virgil looked very well and was even sporting a
goatee. He missed seeing those who were unable to attend. j "wtｫ President Dave Standi opened the
program welcoming everyone and giving a report on our Lions who are ilL v.:ioj vrf' uvjri-' yiunhnf'' ri
>f ixh UuU Lo, '.Vir.Vi.j rl ?r Lion Larry Earhart led our blessing and pledge to the flag. Lion Jim
Nelson did the table assignments by asking 'several questions. rThe table of Lion h- -ja* ^ Frank
Edmonds and his wife Phyllis received the honor of being first to be served as ' ** > win. Frank and
Phyllis have been married 63 'ears. /The table of Lion Dave Standi and his ｫ a Ita tu jvi fiance Ashley
got to be second; by being the most recent to become engaged The other A> . l i>ii tables followed, and
the meal was very good. The meal consisted of roast bee｣ split rsmrl *f.i'Schicken breast, miked
vegetables, sweet carrots, green beans, rolls, two desserts from: ' -u y* \ ! J i which to choose and tea or
coffee. -.; 3 ｫ .i f ( ,y less f i?>)fl. Everyone seemed to enjoy both the meal and the entertainment Lion
Dave thanked the committee of Lions Andy, Joe, Bev and Suzanne for their efforts in putting our
dinner together. He reminded all of the Pancake Breakfast coming up on Saturday, February 23 at the
Toccoa Elementary School Cafeteria and the Chilly Open golf tournament on March 15th.

February 28,2008 The meeting was called to order by President Dave Standi. Introduction of Guests
Ron and Ann Bowman, speakers from Leader Dog Ann's brother, Dave Ellis Jane Finley Harold
Atkinson, former member of Toccoa Lions Leann Masten, (new director of Toccoa-Stephens YMCA)
guest of Ray Cornell Harold Atkinson brought to the club the "one-of-a-kind" prize auctioned by the
club as a fundraiser at previous Christmas parties. This was turned over to our Lion Tamer, Jim Nelson.
Report on those who are ill: Lion Ruth Payton remains in the Oak Heritage nursing home and continues
to have therapy. Lion Marvin Mauldin is recovering and doing fine. Lion M. G, Stowe advised that he
will be having a heart catheterization and stint in a few weeks. We also learned that Betty Fields was in
the hospital today for surgery on her throat ' Announcements: Lion Dave gave a big "Thank You" to
Lion Russ Paxton and aLi those who assisted with the Pancake Breakfast this past Saturday, February
23rd. Chilly Open is coming up on Saturday, March 15. Lions were encouraged to get a team together
and compete for 1* 2nd or the coveted last place. Lion Irv Hellenga was recognized for his 55 years of
service to the Toccoa Lions Club , There will be a Cabinet Meeting on March 9* in Watkinsville Jim
Nelson gave the invocation and asked the blessing. Larry Earhart led the pledge to the flag. Program:
Our guest Ann Bowman told us about the Leader Dog she has and shared her experiences with the 8
other puppies she has raised. She talked about the support given by clubs such as the Toccoa club.
Leader Dogs for the Blind is a non-profit organization that services the blind and deaf/blind community
throughout the world. There are currently 2,050 graduates with Leader Dogs all over the world. The
school was started in 1939 by a group of Michigan Lions. Every year there are 300 teams who range in
age from 18 to 90 who progress through a 25 day program while living on campus. The need for mis
service is due to Retinitis Pigmentosa, the leading cause of blindness and with Diabetic Retinopathy in
second place. Thirty-five percent of the monies to operate the school is contributed by Lions and
Lioness around the world. There are 300 puppies being raised by volunteers throughout the U.S. and
Canada with a goal of 500. One volunteer family has raised 41 puppies over the years. The type dogs
used in the program are Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds. This was a
very insightful program and one which shows us just part of the uses of our donation. We should
remember some of these facts as we tell others of the service Lions Clubs do in the community.

March 13.2008 The meeting was called to order by President Dave Standi rin .:. i"': .< "-io Dave asked
about the Lions who have been on the sick list and a report was given on those on whom we had
information. ;i ,.. . i Larry Earhart opened with prayer ,., ,: >v.., ,, t , f' Henry Fields led the pledge to
the flag and "My Country Tis of Jh^ *' '' less * Tail Twister Lion Henry tried to stir the Lions*
funnybone with some jokes and one-liners but had difficulty. He was advised to keep his day job,; He
then assigned tables and allowed the guest table to go vi, ( Announcements:, , . riiir; .y^ Vietnam
Memorial Wall: After our meal Dave gave Mr. VWL' * "for Spratlin asked for, v, the upcoming visit to
Tpccd.bytnc Vietnam Veterans Memonaln Marcn ^'fp., f " - - "'' volunteers to serve as security during
the visit, and a sign-up sheet was passed arouncL.'. v r, - :v -'. Pancake Breakfast' Lion Russ Paxton
reported that Claud Smith had a donor to give the club $2000,, ( bringing the total to $3238. , 4 . . , ., ,s
; v i " .. - Chilly Open is coming up on March J 5* Program: bob Pless, Chief Ambassador of the Boys
and Girls Club to introduce our speaker. Mr. Pless introduced Mr. Oliver Dorsey who is the Executive
Director of the Boys and Girls Club of Toccpa. #Mr.. Dorsey told us about the club. It is open daily
from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and serves 95 to 100 children daily. They receive assistance in numerous
activities such as reading and homework- ,They. participate in Project Learn which utilizes computer
interaction to develop their learning skills and thinking processes. The children are pre-tested and posttested
which allows teachers to see die progress made during : participation. He advised that the girls
participate in their own flag football program. The club is currently )i organizing a teen center. Miss
Holly Keys has been named as Youth of the Year for the Toccoa Club and will compete statewide. He
advised that their budget for the year is $272,000. ......... Lion Dave presented Mr. Dorsey with a
certificate of appreciation from the Toccoa Lions for his program. As the last piece of business, Lion
Kay Royal gave an account of the success of the Open Arms Clinic ,. which has now been in operation
for one year. In the. month of February, ^50 patients were seen. ; .tA. ,. With no other business, the
meeting was adjourned.

March 27,2008 The meeting was called to order by President Dave Standi Report on those who are ill:
District Governor RuthPayton is up and about at Oak Heritage in rehab for her legs. Lion M. C. Stowe
is still up for surgery in the near future Lion Marvin Mauldin is still recovering from his surgery. "' Irv
Hellenga opened the meeting with prayer and asked the blessing for our food. Jim Nelson led the
pledge to the flag. Program: Lion Fortest Connelly introduced our county 4-H sponsor, Ms. Susan
Yearwood and guests, 4-H member Bailey Dickinson and his parents Ehvain and Shawna Dickinson.
Bailey has as a project the "Conspiracy Theory on the Assassination of President John F. Kennedy"*
Bailey went over several facts about the assassination and compared the information, giving conflicting
information of the Warren Report on one shooter. ' ' ,:'' f '" " ;- - ' "-'" Bailey is a 5th grader at Stephens
County Middle School. Members of the club were impressed with his poise and presentation and gave
him a round of applause upon completion of his speech. Sponsor Susan Yearwood told the club about
4-H and what is available to those participating, such as water and energy conservation, public
speaking and 50 other projects. Several club members have been in 4-H in their younger days.
Announcements: M. C. Stowe gave us the dates for White Cane Days. We will participate on Friday
and Saturday, April 11 and 12 at Wal-Mart A sign-up sheet was passed around. Lion Dave asked for all
Past Presidents to meet at Quincy's at noon on Thursday, April 3rd for discussion of upcoming officer
selection. Tail Twister. The Tail Twister collected $6. from the club members this day. There being no
further business, the meeting was adjourned

April 10,2008 The meeting was called to order by President Dave Standi. Introduction of Guests: Dan
Black, brother of James Black Trudy Rudert, Dist Secretary for Lions 18-D Melissa Plaisted, speaker
Report oi those who are ill: ｣ i Kjf. " ｣ r " i M. C. Stowe had his surgery rescheduled and is at another
club today. Marvin Mauldin remains on the mend from surgery. Lion Joe Vaughn was at the meeting
today but is scheduled for surgery on 4/14, ; v ... Larry Earhart gave the invocation and asked the
blessing. Jim Nelson led the pledge to me flag arid "My Country Tis 6f The*" and then assigned
tables,* " '* ｫ ' VKrt: ｻ It was great to see DG Ruth Payton back with us. She has been absent for
several months following an; , j i ,, i i automobile accident Program: After another greai lunch, Lion
Steve Spruiil mtrwtoced! Melissa Plalstedi a board member of ' *'' ' * f' the Paul Anderson Park
Foundation. Ms. Plaistedtold the club about Paul^ beginning in thieightlifting''-y nii competition and
inspiration from God. She told how he became inspired when visiting youth in prison and realized their
lack of opportunity upon leaving heir,environmentythere to return Jqthat, which had ed then*;; ntyrf
to prison, a cycle ofretum. -She talked about how he used his notoriety to tell the world of his love, for .
. . . . f.7 God, the home of youth and how he aided young people in getting a better chance at life
opportunity by developing their self esteem,' work ethic and study habits^ Ms. )PIaisted also ioid how a
ifouri of ioicaTi11 'il graders approached the city commissioners'with die Idea of this park and their
fefforts to get it orTthe' ' ^ HvAA ground. The commissioners, after furtherj-esearch by the students
and another presentation, allocated nil !.vn', $8,500 toward this project Additional support came from
the sale of bricks purchased by the public to be t. placed in the park. The park is to open in May of this
year. Announcements: After me prograni, Lion Dave reminded Everyone present ' '; "' White Cane
Days at Wal-Mart and to bring tobkies to give to our donors. J Whfte Cane is Friday and *JJ '' x ' '
Saturday, April 11 and 12. .rmx>mS 'n "rj-nv. Cottage. He sent around a sigh-up sheet ' Lion Dave
presented to the club the roster of officers for the 2008-2009 Lion year. Presented to the club were the
following: : *j.# *-.ｫ President 1* Vice President r4 Vice President 3* Vice President Secretary ｻ : -
Asst Secretary Treasurer Tail Twister AssL Tail Twister Lion Tamer Parlimentarian Chaplain Asst
Chaplain One year Directors Two year Directors Steve Spruill Bryan Gordon ' j Jim Nelson ' Donna
Murray Ray Cornell Mary Ann Mojica Kay Royal Henry Fields Ray Cornell ' ' Claud Smith M. C.
Stowe.. Larry Earhart Irv Hellenga LuisMendez, Kevin Vanderhoef Ken Fewell, Nick Thomas Motion
was made by Kay Royal for the slate of officers to be accepted. Motion was seconded by Andy
Crawford. The motion was passed unanimously. ^Nlwister collected $8.03.

April 24,2008 The meeting was called to order by President Dave Standi. Twenty members were
present and one guest, our speaker Ray Brueland Report on those who are ill: Irv Hellenga is suffering
back pain, Joe Vaughn is doing fairly well, M. C Stowe has not had surgery yet Invocation and
Blessing: Larry Earhart Pledge to the Flag was led by Larry Earhart Announcements: 4* Cabinet
Meeting will be held on Sunday, May 4, at the Festhall in Helen, GA. Those who indicated they will
attend: Bryan and Florence Gordon, Richard and Mary Ann Mojica, Ruth Payton, M.C. and Amelia
Stowe, Dave Standi and Ashley Scott. White Cane Day: We raised $1204.31. M. C. Stowe is applying
to Wal-Mart for a matching grant 75* Anniversary is coming up on May 8th. The cost per person is
$20. We have commemorative pins which will be free to members and $5. for guests if they wish to
purchase. The speaker will be Mark Miller, President of the Georgia Lions Lighthouse. State
Convention is May 16-18. Top Five Banquet will be held at the Georgia Baptist Convention Center on
May 1* at 7:00 p.m. Next Board Meeting will be held at Family Eye Care on May 6. Installation of
Officers will be done at the last meeting in May. Buddy Outz will be here for that Tail Twister: Henry
Fields entertained the club with his usual funny stories. When some of this jokes started eliciting
groans instead of laughs, he announced that he would stop. A club member who shaH remain nameless
applauded that announcement and earned the ire of the Tail Twister and an extra fine. The total
collected was $13.46 New Member Induction: M. C. Stowe inducted our newest member, Kenneth
Fewell, sponsored by Lion Bryan Gordon. Program: Ray Brueland of Toccoa Clinic presented a
program about MedAccess. MedAccess is part the Family Practice division of Toccoa Clinic. Patients
are seen by Nurse Practitioners and Physicians Assistants. Physicians are on call and available if
needed MedAccess is not for emergency care or care for chronic illnesses. It is intended for minor
injuries and acute illnesses such as the flu. No appointments are necessary. A patient can walk in and
receive care. The hours are 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the week, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m.
to 8 p.m. on

Lion Year 2008/2009
The President of the club this year was Lion Steve Spruill. It was a memorable year for the Toccoa
Lions Club. It was the year of our club's 75th Anniversary. In addition to the 75th Anniversary
celebration, there were a number of other highlights including our participation in the Toccoa Harvest
Festival. At that event, our club provided a rest area where festival attendees could sit, enjoy a cold
drink and get a free eye screening. Sixty- one people received eye screenings during the two days of the
festival. Two of our members Joe Vaughn and Andy Crawford were honored as Melvin Jones Fellows,
and PDG Ruth Payton was awarded a Progressive Melvin Jones. Ruth Payton was also inducted into
the Georgia Lions Hall of Fame. We received eight new members into our club this year: Matt
Osborne, Florence Gordon, Bill Graham, Steve and Irene Chitwood, Drew and Margo Taylor, and
Randy Shirley who transferred from the Lavonia Club. This was the year of the fire on the campus of
Toccoa Falls College. In the early morning hours of January 12,2009, the Gate Cottage where our club
regularly meets was burned to the ground. But out of the ashes came a small miracle. Our bell, our club
banner and our gavel were all recovered, having survived the fire. It seems that they all fell under the
water that was being poured onto the fire and landed up in the basement covered with water. Roy
Sosby who operates the Gate Cottage Restaurant rescued these items, had them cleaned and returned
them to a very grateful Lions Club. We lost one great Lion this year. Dr. Irving Hellenga who joined
the Toccoa Lions Club in 1953, passed away. Dr. Hellenga was President of the club in 1961-62 and
served as District Governor in 1971-72. Several new fund raisers were added this year including retail
sales of walking sticks and whistles, candy and nuts, and flower bulbs. We also added a second
pancake breakfast to benefit the Open Arms Clinic which provides services to adults who have no
medical insurance. We had a visit from the District Governor, Dick Smith, who encouraged the club to
build membership and to retain members. This led to a membership night being set up by PDG Ruth
Payton. Eighteen potential members attended a dessert reception and learned about the services that
Lions provide around the world and in our own community. Two of those who attended have joined the
club and at least one other intends to join very soon. We look forward to another great year of service
in 2009-2010.

2009-2010
The most significant work that the Toccoa Lions Club accomplished this year and in previous years is
helping over eighty needy people in Stephens County with eye examinations and eye glasses. The local
sight conservation program is our main focus each year. Over the past three years ending June 30, 2009
the Toccoa Lions have provided glasses to 250 Stephens County residents. The next most significant
work of the Toccoa Lions Club is assisting the Open Arms Clinic. This free medical clinic, started in
February 2006 with seed money from the Toccoa Lions Club, has served over 550 needy residents in
Stephens County to date. The Toccoa Lions Club has held a pancake breakfast the last two years with
aLi the proceeds going to the Open Arms Clinic. This year the club raised $3,300.00 for the Open
Arms Clinic. The next most significant work of the Toccoa Lions Club is assisting the Georgia Lions
Lighthouse Foundation in Decatur. The Lions Lighthouse serves as a central clearing house and
coordinates aLi the efforts of the 241 Lions Clubs in Georgia. In a typical year the Lighthouse will
perform over 300 eye surgeries, provide glasses for over 2,500 needy Georgians and provide over 900
hearing aids for needy Georgians. This year the Toccoa Loins did a public solicitation in front of Wal-
Mart during White Cane Days raising nearly $1,000.00. This coupled with a matching grant from Wal-
Mart will provide $2,000.00 to the Lighthouse for operations. In addition to supporting the current
needs of the Lighthouse the Toccoa Lions Club pledged $10,000.00 toward the Lions Lighthouse
capital campaign to build a new Lighthouse and expand services. $1,000.00 of this pledge has been
sent to the Lighthouse in April 2010. The Toccoa Lions provide a rest area during the Toccoa Harvest
Festival the first weekend in November each year. This is a place for people to sit in the shade, drink
water and rest At the rest area the Toccoa Lions provide free vision screening tests. Over eighty people
were screened during the Harvest Festival this year. The Toccoa Lions also provided vision screenings
at the YMCA's Healthy Kids Day fair this April. The Toccoa Lions also work with youth by
sponsoring a little league team in Stephens County. The club financially supports the Georgia Lions
Camp for the Blind in Waycross, Camp Kudzu for diabetic children in Cleveland and the Top Five
program with the Toccoa Rotary for graduating seniors from Stephens County High School. The
Toccoa Lions also support financially the Leader Dog School for the Blind, The Recordings for the
Blind and Dyslexic and Lions Club International Foundation. Toccoa Lions also collect used eye
glasses, cases, hearing aids and cell phones. These are sent to the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation
where they are cleaned, refurbished and graded to determine the prescription of the lenses. Last year
over 106,000 pairs of glasses were distributed to needy people in foreign countries by the Lions
Lighthouse. Money to support all this programming is raised through a variety of fund raising activities
all year long in our community. The generosity of people in Toccoa and Stephens County keep the
Toccoa Lions programs vibrant The Toccoa Lions publish a community calendar every year. They hold
two pancake breakfasts and host a golf outing in March. The club sells flower bulbs in the fall, mops
and brooms as well as walking sticks all year long. The Toccoa Lions sell at public craft fairs, farmers
markets and the Harvest Festival. The Toccoa Lions operate a food concession during the Harvest
Festival. The Toccoa Lions operate candy and nut vending machines in the community. The club also
receives grants from the Mitchell-Allen Foundation and Wal-Mart during the year.

Toccoa Lions Club - 2010 - 2011 Year in Review
The club started the year with an orderly transition of officers and directors. The board of director's
meets monthly the first Tuesday of the month. The club has two luncheon meetings a month on the
second and fourth Thursdays of the month. A typical luncheon meeting has a program with a guest
speaker.
The major service project of the Toccoa Lions Club year in and year out is the local sight conservation
program. The club provides on average seventy-five needy people in our county with eye glasses each
year. This program is managed by members of the Toccoa Lions Club. The program is done in
cooperation with three local optometrists who discount or donate the eye exams to the Lions or the
Open Arm Clinic. The eye glasses are provided to patients from the Georgia Lions Lighthouse
Foundation in Chamblee.
The secondary service project of the Toccoa Lions Club is the support of the Open Arms Clinic, a free
medical clinic in Toccoa, for uninsured and needy people in Stephens County. This clinic operates
entirely on private donations from churches, civic groups and caring businesses. The clinic was started
by the Toccoa Lions Club in 2006 and the club provided the seed money. The clinic is an independent
501C corporation and several Lions serve on the board and volunteer at the clinic. Over 600 patients
have been served by this clinic in the first four years. The Toccoa Lions have donated $3,300.00 a year
to the clinic each of the last two years.
Another major service of the Toccoa Lions Club is the support of the Georgia Lions Lighthouse
Foundation in Chamblee, GA. The new Lighthouse has a permanent eye clinic, hearing clinic, optical
lab and a lab to refurbish used eye glasses. The new lighthouse has two mobile optical clinics that visit
over twenty-five remote locations a month to conduct clinics. Today every needy Georgian is within a
one hour drive of a Lions free eye clinic. The GA Lions Lighthouse typically provides 400 eye
surgeries, 1,900 hear aids, and 4,000 eye glasses a year. In addition the GA Lions Lighthouse
distributes over hundred thousand refurbished eye glasses a year throughout the world. The Toccoa
Lions give approximately $2,000.00 a year to the operations of the Lighthouse each year. The Toccoa
Lions Club also pledged $10,000.00 to the Lighthouse Capital Campaign to acquire the new building.
Four thousands dollars of this pledge was paid this Lions year.
The Toccoa Lions Club also provides financial support to other Lions projects such as the Georgia
Lions Camp for the Blind in Waycross, the Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic in Athens, the Leader
Dog School for the Blind in Rochester, MI and Lions Club International Foundation in Illinois. In
addition the Toccoa Lions also financially support Southeastern Guide Dogs, Canine Companions,
Camp Kudzu for diabetic children and other local charities.
The Toccoa Lions operate a free vision screening at the Harvest Festival in downtown Toccoa the first
weekend in November every year. The Lions also provide a free rest area for people attending the
Harvest Festival. In the spring the Toccoa Lions provide free vision screening at the Home and Garden
show at the Stephen County Senior Center. The Lions provide literature on a variety of vision and
diabetes related topics at these screenings.
The Toccoa Lions Club has a series of collection stations throughout the community for used eye
glasses, cases, hearing aids and cell phones. These items are collected by Lions each month and
shipped off to the GA Lions Lighthouse to be cleaned, refurbished, graded and tagged for shipment
overseas.

The Toccoa Lions Club raises money to provide the support of the above charities through a series of
fund raising activities all year long.
The first fund raising project of the year was the community calendar project The club solicits birthday
and anniversary information as well as space ads for a twelve month calendar for the next calendar
year. The calendars are sold to the public and given to the media outlets for publication. Birthdays and
anniversaries from the Lion's community calendar are read on the local radio station every morning.
This project usually earns a $2,000.00 profit for the club.
The last Saturday in September the Toccoa Lions host a pancake breakfast at Toccoa Elementary
School. This fund raiser nets the club about $3,000.00. The club also sells mops and brooms as well as
walking sticks at the breakfast
In October the Toccoa Lions sell flower bulbs and run an information booth at the Currahee Military
weekend in downtown Toccoa.
In November the Toccoa Lions operate a rest area at the Harvest Festival in downtown Toccoa. They
conduct a two day free vision screening at the rest area. They also have a food concession on the street
at the Harvest Festival.
In December the Toccoa Lions distribute their community calendars and enjoy a Christmas party.
In February the Toccoa Lions enjoy a Valentine's Party and host a pancake breakfast the last Saturday
of the month. The proceeds from this second pancake breakfast are donated to the Open Arms Clinic.
In April the Toccoa Lions set up booths in front of Wal-Mart in Toccoa to solicit donations for "White
Cane Days". This is usually the second Friday and Saturday in April. All the donations are sent to the
Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation to support their operations. The Wal-Mart Foundation matches
what the Lion raise up to $1,000.00. This year the Toccoa Lions raised $1,407.00 during White Cane
Days.
In May the Toccoa Lions Club hosts their "Chilly Open" golf tournament. This is a best ball
tournament at a local golf course. This event raises approximately $3,000.00 each year.
All year long the Toccoa Lions sell mops and brooms, made by visually impaired and blind people.
These are sold over the internet, at Lions functions and at Carpenter's Service Tire store.
The Toccoa Lions also sell hand carved walking sticks and whistles.
The Toccoa Lions also operate a candy and nut vending machine business in the community,
The Toccoa Lions Club also receives several donations from individuals, businesses and foundations
during the year.
Learn more about the Toccoa Lions by visiting their website www.toccoalions.org.