The Henryetta Lions Club met Thursday, Sept. 11, at The Shack 2.0 for a meeting filled with gratitude, community updates and anticipation for upcoming events – including a special screening to com- memorate Henryetta’s 125th anniversary.
— Celebrating Lives, Legacy & Lion Service
The meeting opened with the Sunshine Report, offering moments of reflection and appreciation. Lion Kartika Shahan shared the touching news that her daughter had received a letter of gratitude from the Virginia Lions Eyebank recognizing her late husband’s donation a testament to the Lions’ ongoing commitment to sight-saving initiatives. Lion Bob Fowler shared words from his son about what he wanted to be remembered by, prompting heartfelt pride. Meanwhile, Lions Nita Robertson and G. Steve Rainwater celebrated football victories from OU and Georgia respectively. A particularly joyful highlight came from Lion LouAnn Smith, who announced that an anonymous donor had contributed $1,000 to the club’s adult eyeglass program-an enormous boost to one of the club’s core service projects.
— Minutes & Fun: A Touch of History & Humor Lion Nita made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by Lion Amber Mordecai, and the motion carried unanimously. Lion LouAnn, serving as Tail Twister, brought laughter and learning with a trivia quiz centered around local history facts featured in videos by Henryetta historian Bruce Jones.
— Coach Adler shares vision for Henryetta football The guest speaker for the day was Henryetta’s new head football coach, Kevin Adler, who was introduced by Lion of the Day Keith Green. Coach Adler shared his vision for the future of the football program, emphasizing core values and the vital role community involvement will play.
“I want this program to be something the community is proud of,” Adler stated, adding that he brings a decade of coaching experience to the table. His focus is not just on wins and losses, but on building a culture of pride, teamwork, and responsibility in the student-athletes he leads.
— Exciting Events on the Horizon
The Lions Club reminded members and the community of two major upcoming events:
Henryetta’s 125th Anniversary Screening – Sept. 27 As part of the ongoing celebration of Henryetta’s quasquicentennial, a special video screening highlighting the city’s 125-year history will take place on Saturday, Sept. 27, during the monthly Cruise Knight event downtown. Compiled by longtime historian Bruce Jones, the film presents a curated journey through the town’s rich past, from its founding to present-day milestones.
The screening will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. inside The Briefcase, and attendees will have the opportunity to pre-order a digital copy of the film. Those who order will receive an exclusive commemorative keychain and bonus footage not shown during the public presentation. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Henryetta Historical Society, supporting ongoing preservation of local history.
— Glow Bingo – Oct. 4 The ever-popular Lions Bingo night returns with a twist-Glow Bingo! Scheduled for the evening of Friday, Oct. 4, this lively event promises a fun night for all ages. Lion Mylena Poulton has presale tickets available, and proceeds will help fund club initiatives including local scholarships and the eyeglass program.
— Looking Ahead: Lions Speaker Schedule
Upcoming Lions of the Day and speakers include:
• Sept. 18 – Sherri Crosby
• Sept. 25 – Amanda Wolfe
• Oct. 2 – Bill Goodner
• Oct. 9 – Shannon Henry
• Oct. 16 – No meeting due to Columbus Day holiday Members are encouraged to attend and invite guests as the club continues fostering leadership, community service and civic pride.
For more information about the Henryetta Lions Club or to inquire about tickets for GLOW Bingo or the 125th Anniversary video, contact any local club member or visit the Henryetta Lions Club Facebook page.
