Ennis Lions Teach Flag History at Ennis Schools
In a heartwarming celebration of patriotism and community service, members of the Ennis Lions Club paid a special visit to the students of Ennis Schools this May to share the inspiring history of the American flag as well as proper protocol to honor the flag.
Led by Navy veterans Hondo Barr and his father Dick Barr, both Ennis Lions members, along with Lions Julie Bartos and Corinna Christensen, they presented an interactive and age-friendly Flag Day program to students in grades 1, 2, and 3. The presentation covered the origins of the flag, what it’s stars and stripes represent, and why June 14 is celebrated across the country as Flag Day.
“The students were incredibly engaged,” said Lion Julie. “They asked thoughtful questions and showed so much enthusiasm for learning about our country’s history.”
At one point in the presentation, the Lion Dick asked the students if they would want to come back to school on Flag Day, June 14, to celebrate again. The room erupted in laughter and a unanimous, “NO!”—a lighthearted reminder of the excitement that comes with summer break just around the corner.
In a touching gesture to commemorate the visit, each student and teacher received a small American flag mounted in a handcrafted wooden stand. The stands were made by the Ennis Lions themselves and featured the Lions Club emblem—offering a lasting symbol of the day’s fun and the values of pride, service, and community.
“It was more than just a history lesson,” said Lion Corinna. “It was a way to connect with our youth and pass along something meaningful they can take pride in.”
The Ennis Lions Club has long been a staple of civic life in Madison County, with a deep-rooted commitment to service, education, and patriotism. Their Flag Day initiative not only honored the nation’s symbol, but also reflected the spirit of the Lions’ motto: “We Serve.”
By Lion Corinna Christensen
By Ennis LionsGlendive Lions Accepting Grant Applications from Local Non Profits
The Glendive Lions Club is excited to announce the continuation of its grant program for Glendive Lions Grant Application 2025 the Glendive community. Years ago, the Lions established a foundation and every year they invested a small portion of their fundraising money and personal donations into the foundation. The foundation has grown to the point where the Lions are now able to use some of the dividends to fund local needs and projects.
The Lions are inviting applications for the funding from community “not for profit” and 501©(3) organizations whose needs fit within one of three categories: 1) Community Benefit; 2) Local Needs, and 3) Local Youth Programs.
Approximately $8,100 is available for grants this year. The Glendive community has supported the Lions Club in our fundraising efforts over the years and the organization is excited to return that support in the form of these grants.
Under the guidance of Lion Member and investment advisor Melonie Beeler of Cetera Wealth Partners, the Foundation has consistently grown year after year.
“For 20 years the Glendive Lions Club members have been actively involved in the analysis of their investment portfolio making regular contributions based on long term strategy. Their fiduciary dedication to build the endowment for the benefit of our community has been collaborative heroism,” Beeler said in response to her involvement with the Lions Club Foundation.
Applications can be picked up at Culver Insurance located at 135 Highway 16, Building C, Glendive. Completed grant applications should be mailed to P.O. Box 366, Glendive, MT 59330. Grant applications must be postmarked no later than June 10, 2025. For grant related questions, please contact Paul Hopfauf at 406-377-4132 or email [email protected].
By Melonie Beeler
Project Pride_Glendive Lions present to First Graders
Glendive Lions bring Flags to 1st Graders
As part of the Lions’ emphasis on youth and volunteering, Glendive Lions present flags to all Glendive 1st graders each year. Visiting Jefferson School on March 27th, members of the Lions Club talked with all the 1st graders assembled in one classroom. The presentation consisted of three parts. First, Lion Don Idso told about Lions and why they are considered volunteers. Secondly, Lion Jess Johnson enlarged the concept of volunteering by telling the students that many things would not happen in Glendive were it not for volunteers. Examples included the Dawson Co. Fair and murals painted on the walls around Glendive. All volunteers seek to make their community better and are not paid to do this. In the third part of the presentation, Lion Deb Anderson told students how to respect the flag and take care of it. This included having students stand and recite the “Pledge of Allegiance.”
As a gift from the Glendive Lions, all the first graders received their own 12-inch American flag and flag stand. They were also given a brochure entitled “Our Flag” to take home and read with their parents. This brochure covers such subjects as displaying the flag correctly, care and respect for the flag, and flag facts.
The Glendive Lions are part of a world-wide organization called Lions International which supports eight causes: youth, vision, hearing, cancer, diabetes, protecting the environment, hunger, and humanitarian issues. Glendive Lions meet at 12:00 noon on the first and third Monday of each month at Yellowstone River Inn. Known most widely for their Lions Camp at Makoshika, their brat booth at the fair, collecting used eye glasses, or the “Heart of a Lion” sculpture by the EPEC, they continue to explore new options for serving Glendive. Lions live up to their motto “We Serve”.
Glendive Lions offers $500 scholarship to any college
Apply now for a $500 scholarship to any college! Deadline April 18th. Select both links below to print the description and application…
Glendive Lions Club Celebrates 80th Anniversary!
This month the Glendive Lions marked av very special milestone, celebrating 80 extraordinary years of devoted service to our community! Members and friends alike gathered at the Cottonwood Country Club, honoring our past, present and bright future as Lions, filled with warmth, savory food, enchanting music, and cherished memories. Here’s to many more years of inspiring service!
“I am a Lion. God help me to preserve Liberty, Intelligence and Our Nation’s Safety.” 
Lion Bernie Oglietti Honored with Prestigious Melvin Jones Award
Ennis Lions Club Honors Lion Bernie Oglietti with Prestigious Melvin Jones Award
The Ennis Lions Club is proud to recognize Lion Bernie Oglietti for his outstanding dedication to service and leadership by presenting him with the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship Award. This esteemed recognition is the highest honor bestowed by Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) and is given to individuals who exemplify humanitarian service and an unwavering commitment to the community.
Lion Bernie joined the Ennis Lions Club in 2008, sponsored by Lion Ed Williams, owner of the Rainbow Valley Lodge. Since then, he has been an integral part of the club’s success, actively participating in countless service projects and fundraising initiatives. His impact on the club and the Ennis community has been truly remarkable.
One of Lion Bernie’s most significant contributions has been chairing the Science Fair Judging for the Ennis Lions Club. For many years, he has taken the lead in selecting and awarding the top student project, encouraging young minds to pursue their curiosity and academic excellence.
Beyond his commitment to youth education, Lion Bernie is also the visionary behind the club’s Poker Tournament Fundraiser. Founded as his passion project, the tournament has grown into one of the Ennis Lions’ most successful and enjoyable annual events, bringing together the community while raising substantial funds for local causes. His wife, Pat, has been a steadfast supporter in making the event a success. As Lion Bernie steps back from organizing the tournament, he passes the torch to Lions Tony and Michelle, who will continue the tradition he built.
In addition to his service with the Lions, Lion Bernie has contributed years of dedicated service on the Madison Valley Rural Fire Board and was an integral player in establishing Station #3 in the Varney area. His efforts have greatly enhanced emergency response capabilities and improved public safety for the local community.
In recognition of his many years of service, dedication, and leadership, the Ennis Lions Club is honored to present Lion Bernie with the Melvin Jones Fellowship. Named after the founder of Lions Clubs International, the Melvin Jones Fellowship is awarded to those who demonstrate the highest ideals of humanitarian service. It is a reflection of Lion Bernie’s unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others and strengthening the mission of the Lions.
The Ennis Lions Club extends its heartfelt gratitude to Lion Bernie for his years of hard work and congratulates him on this well-earned recognition. His legacy of service will continue to inspire Lions and community members alike for years to come.
Ennis Lions Poker Fundraiser a Big Win for Scholarships and Community Initiatives
The Ennis Lions Club’s annual Poker Fundraiser, held on February 2, 2025, at the Silver Dollar, was a resounding success, bringing the community together for an afternoon of spirited competition and charitable giving.
Chaired by Lions Tony Treglia and Michelle Boatwright, under the experienced guidance of longtime event chair Lion Bernie Oglietti, the tournament saw 33 jubilant poker players vying for victory. With numerous rebuys throughout the early rounds, the event generated significant additional funds to support the Lions’ local scholarships and community programs.
The tournament was strengthened by generous local sponsorships, including a title sponsor, a dealer sponsor, lunch co-sponsors, and numerous $100 business sponsors. Attendees also had the opportunity to bid on an impressive selection of silent auction prizes, donated by a wide range of local businesses, collectively worth thousands of dollars.
The competition lasted into the early evening, culminating in a thrilling finish where local poker legend John Benedict emerged victorious.
“The overwhelming support from the community, our sponsors, and the players made this our most successful tournament yet,” said Lion Tony. “The funds raised will go a long way in supporting scholarships and other critical Lions Club initiatives in the Ennis area.”
The Ennis Lions Club extends its gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers who made this event possible. Their continued support helps the club serve the community and make a lasting impact.
For more information about the Ennis Lions Club and its upcoming events, visit ennismtlions.org.
Ennis Lions award at Ennis School Science Fair
A big thank you to Lion Kent Porterfield for presenting the award from the Ennis Lions Club to the Science Fair participant. The Lions have been proud supporters of the youth at Ennis Schools for many years through the Science Fair, and we appreciate Kent’s role in continuing this tradition.
In previous years, Lion Bernie Oglietti was actively involved in judging the Science Fair, helping to recognize and encourage young scientists in our community. We appreciate the dedication of all our members who contribute to supporting Ennis students.
Thank you all for your continued service!
By Susan FraserSpecial Celebrations at January Meeting
Our club inducted FOUR new members during our January Meeting. Guest Lions Richard Gessling, District GMT and Kenny Seymour, Zone Chair were on hand for the ceremony. We also had the pleasure of honoring long-time club member, Flo McMasters, with the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award for her years of exemplary service and dedication to the Joliet Lions Club! The Melvin Jones Fellowship is the highest honor to be bestowed upon a Lions Member.
By JolietLions
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