In an July 10 email to all Lions, International Lions President Mark S. Lyon said:

“Service is the foundation of our organization. It’s at the very root of what we do and who we are as Lions. Meaningful service fuels growth, increases our impact and strengthens our communities and our world. It’s why people join us — and why they stay.

That’s why my presidential theme this year is “Rooted in Service.” I encourage all of us to reconnect with our Lion roots and focus on what matters most. Get creative with your service. Have fun. Look for new ways to meet the needs of your communities. And remember, no act of service is too small — every effort makes a difference.”

Our guest speaker for our July 7th dinner meeting was the Honorable Ellie Schmidt. Ellie was an elected member of the City of Fairfax Council, 2010-18, and is a member of the Fairfax Kiwanis Club.  Ellie has been involved in the  City’s Independence day parade since 1976 (when she was still in High School) and has been the parade announcer for TV for 30 years.

FX city prudently canceled the Independence Day parade, due to extreme heat…which canceled our Lions food sales at the parade. We had already bought the food, and decided to help others; we donated it to the KATHERINE K. HANLEY FAMILY SHELTER.

It serves up to 20 families at a time, most are mothers with school-age children. Families are assessed for housing barriers and Shelter House assists in overcoming barriers. Shelter House’s goal is for families to spend only 45 days at the Katherine K. Hanley Shelter. Services include: Housing counseling; Employment coaching; Financial literacy training; Kids night; After school tutoring; Teen support groups and parenting classes.

Missing the parade and our food stand, we lost an important charity fund raising opportunity. You can help – consider making a cash donation to the Fairfax Lions. This link takes you the part of our web page on how to donate. Thank you!

New Club Officers were installed and awards presented at the Lions dinner meeting on June 16.

The very special Melvin Jones Award was presented to Lion Joe.

The very special International Lions Leadership medal was presented.

Lion of the Year award was presented to Lion Jim

It was an honor to have Tammy tell Club’s members (and guests) about the programs to celebrate 250 years of the history of Fairfax County.

FX Lions Club President, Gary Maxwell, is completing his 2nd term as President; and he also was the President of Manassas Lions Club in the past.

Past Lions District Governor (also past Club President) Bill Smith recognized Gary’s commitment to leading Lions with an award presented at the Club dinner meeting on June 2, 2026. It is a display of all the collectable “Lions Pins” recognizing Fairfax Lions Club.