Tega Cay, SC – June 14, 2025 – The Tega Cay Lions Club gathered for its annual meeting at the Glennon Center, marking another successful year of community service and ushering in new leadership for the upcoming term. The event was a testament to the club’s dedication, highlighted by scholarship awards, a special guest speaker, and the recognition of outstanding contributions.
The head table featured prominent figures, including outgoing President Jerry Church and his wife Jolene Church, President-Elect Jim MacBride and Lion Hope MacBride, PCC Jim Barbare and Lion Hope Barbare, and Rev. Lion Jon Dwyer. The club was also pleased to welcome special guest Evan Streeter.
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the annual scholarship awards, recognizing exceptional local students:
- Aubrey Heaton was awarded the prestigious Kazel Scholarship ($2500). Aubrey, the child of Monica Reynolds and Scott Heaton, was unable to attend the ceremony.
- Madeline Nestel, daughter of Michele and Mark Nestel, received the Cullen Scholarship ($2000).
- Griffin Gacsy, child of Deborah and Timothy Gacsy, was presented with the Siegel Scholarship ($2000).
The meeting proceeded with the induction of the 2025/2026 Board of Directors and officers, who are poised to lead the club in its continued mission of service. The new leadership team includes:
- President: Jim MacBride
- 1st VP: Ray Williams
- 2nd VP: Christine Lekich
- Secretary: Hope MacBride/Gayle Esarove
- Treasurer: Hope MacBride
- Director 1 year: Ashvin Patel
- Director 1 year: Gary Goodson
- Director 2 year: Brooke Lawn
- Director 2 year: Alice Dobleske
- Tail Twister: Elmo Aivalotis
- Lion Tamer: Elmo Aivalotis
- Club Service Chair: Janet Pritchard
- Membership: Bob McCarthy
- Past President: Jerry Church
Several individuals and organizations were honored for their exceptional contributions to the Tega Cay Lions Club and the wider community:
- Christine Lekich received a “Membership Key Pin” for her outstanding efforts in bringing in new members.
- Howell Landscaping and Design was recognized with an “Award for Outstanding Service to the TC Lions Club and Community.”
- Alice Dobleske was presented with an “Award for Dedicated Service” for her significant enhancements to the International Youth Exchange program and her instrumental role in organizing a new Tega Cay Leo Club.
Prestigious fellowship awards were also bestowed upon deserving members:
- The Melvin Jones Fellowship was awarded to Liz Duda and Gayle Esarove.
- The Franklin Mason Fellowship was presented to Sheila Cole.
- The highly coveted Tega Cay Lions Club “Lion of the Year” award was proudly given to Hope MacBride.
The club also extended a warm welcome to its newest members, inducted during the ceremony: Vicki Kenworthy, Victoria Smith, Audrey Aivalotis, and Kristin Araujo.
The evening concluded with an engaging address from guest speaker Evan Streeter, who captivated the audience with his personal journey from aspiring farmer to the launch of Streeter Heritage Farms. His inspiring story underscored the importance of supporting small farmers, and the Lions Club encouraged attendees to learn more about his work.
The Tega Cay Lions Club looks forward to another year of impactful service under its new leadership, continuing its tradition of making a positive difference in the Tega Cay community.
Mark Your Calendars for the Annual July 4th Fish Fry!
The Tega Cay Lions Club is excited to announce its Annual July 4th Fish Fry, a beloved community tradition! Join us at the Tega Cay Glennon Center Banquet Hall from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm for a delicious meal. Guests can choose between flounder or chicken tenders, served with hush puppies, cole slaw, potato salad, and sweet or unsweet tea. Adults are $18, and children (10 and under) are $10.
Tickets can be purchased online at https://tegacaylions.wixsite.com/tegacaylions , in advance from a local Lions Club member, or at the door on the event day until sold out. Online purchases will be held in your name at the Will-Call Table. This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy great food and support the Lions Club’s charitable efforts, all while enjoying the festivities provided by the City of Tega Cay, including a spectacular fireworks display at night! It’s great family fun you won’t want to miss!
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