[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 105 (Tuesday, June 23, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E604]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING THE 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BELVIDERE LIONS CLUB

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                            HON. BILL FOSTER

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 23, 2026

  Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Belvidere 
Lions Club as it celebrates its 80th anniversary, marking eight decades 
of outstanding community service and dedication to meeting local needs.
  Since its founding in 1946, the Belvidere Lions Club has been a 
hands-on, hardworking organization, sponsoring numerous impactful and 
memorable projects throughout the community. Guided by its motto, ``We 
Serve,'' the Club remains committed to active community engagement and 
to strengthening the community it serves. One of the Club's top 
priorities is vision health, and since 2023, it has screened more than 
7,000 children and adults.
  Over the years, the Club has supported downtown revitalization 
efforts and donated a decorative clock to the City of Belvidere, now 
serving as the centerpiece of Hub Plaza. It continues to serve the 
community through projects and partnerships, including the Boone County 
Fair, Belvidere Youth Baseball, Fish 'n Fun, Camp Lions, Habitat for 
Humanity, and many others. The Club's current initiative is the 
development of an inclusive playground to ensure that children of all 
abilities can play and interact together.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize the Belvidere Lions Club for its 
many accomplishments, and I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating 
its 80 years of commitment to service, leadership, and compassion, the 
values that define Lions Clubs International.

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