By Peggy Tobin
Introducing Gary Bissell: 3rd Vice District Governor
The Montana Lions Clubs proudly welcome Gary Bissell as the newly appointed 3rd Vice District Governor for District 37. This new leadership position, recently established by the District Cabinet, aims to strengthen the Lions’ efforts in Montana. Gary’s appointment by the District Governor and approval by the Cabinet marks a new chapter for District 37, and he is honored to help further the mission of the Lions Clubs in his home state.
Gary brings with him more than 14 years of experience as a committed Lion. He and his wife, Lion Brenda, have been actively involved in the Lions organization since their time in California, where both were members of the Lindon Lions Club. Gary served in multiple leadership roles there, including Director, 2nd and 1st Vice President, and ultimately as Club President during the 2015-2016 term.
Four years ago, Gary and Brenda relocated to Billings, Montana, a place they now proudly call home. The move was inspired by Brenda’s family ties to the area, and since then, they’ve fallen in love with Montana’s natural beauty and vibrant community spirit. Gary is now an enthusiastic member of the Billings Heights Lions Club, continuing his longstanding commitment to the Lions’ motto: We Serve.
Since retiring from a career as a truck driver, Gary has embraced the opportunity to explore Montana with Brenda. They enjoy attending local festivals, fairs, and shows at the MetraPark Arena, meeting new people, and immersing themselves in the unique charm of each corner of the state.
As the 3rd Vice District Governor, Gary is eager to connect with Lions members across Montana, exchanging ideas, fostering new relationships, and building upon the legacy of community service that the Lions embody. With his extensive background in leadership and deep passion for helping others, Gary is committed to supporting District 37’s goals and expanding the impact of Lions Clubs statewide.
Gary and Brenda look forward to traveling throughout Montana and engaging with fellow Lions wherever their journey takes them. Whether at community events, local service projects, or District meetings, the couple is excited to work alongside Lions in every community they visit.
District 37 is thrilled to have Gary Bissell in this inaugural position of 3rd Vice District Governor, and his leadership will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of the Lions’ mission in Montana. Please join us in welcoming Gary and Brenda to this exciting new role!
By MontanaLions
Reminder to Club Secretary and Treasurers: District Dues
As October approaches, it’s important for all secretaries and treasurers within District 37 of the Montana Lions Clubs to prepare for the upcoming assessment of district dues. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure your club is ready and compliant.
Key Date & Membership Basis
The district dues are assessed on January 1st based on the membership as recorded in the Lions Portal on November 1. This means that your club’s dues will be calculated based on the number of members listed in the portal on this date. Ensure your membership records are up to date by then to avoid any discrepancies.
Dues Structure
The dues are set at $25 per member. This fee is divided into two main parts:
- District Operations: $24 of the dues collected from each member goes towards the district’s operational costs. This supports the various activities, programs, and administrative needs of District 37.
- Friendship Committee: $1 from each member’s dues is allocated to the district’s Friendship Committee. This committee plays a crucial role in fostering camaraderie and support within the district, making it a vital part of our community.
What to Do Next
- Update Membership Records: Double-check and update your membership records in the Lions Portal before November 1. Ensure all new members are added and any changes in membership status are accurately reflected.
- Communicate with Your Club: Remind club members about the upcoming dues assessment.
- Prepare Financially: Ensure that your club’s finances are in order to cover the dues based on your current membership count. Budgeting for these dues can prevent any last-minute financial strains.
Timely and accurate dues assessment is crucial for the smooth operation of our district. By keeping your records up to date and preparing your club financially, you help maintain the integrity and efficiency of our district’s operations.
If you have any questions or need assistance with updating your records, please reach out to me or District Administrator Peggy.
By Lion Steve Dogiakos990/990EZ/990N IRS Filing Reminder
Author’s Note: I am re-sharing this reminder from Lions Club International to amplify the message – if your club’s fiscal year ended on June 30th, get your IRS paper work in order! If you had under $50,000 in gross receipts you only have to file the 990N. The original can be seen here.
Club Treasures and Secretaries: Please remember that all Lions clubs, districts and multiple districts that have annual gross receipts of less than US$50,000 and do not have to file Forms 990 or 990-EZ must file the e-Postcard (also known as 990-N). If your Lions club, district or multiple district has a foundation, which is a separate legal entity, the appropriate form will need to be filed as well.
All filers must register at IRS.gov prior to filing their next Form 990-N. This is a one-time registration if the designated Lion files annually. If the designee changes from a prior year, the new designee must register with the IRS.
Please refer to the following chart regarding annual filing requirements:
| 2023-2024 Tax Year* | Form to File |
|---|---|
| Gross receipts normally $50,000 or less | 990-N |
| Gross receipts greater than $50,000 and less than $200,000, and total assets less than $500,000 |
990-EZ or 990 |
| Gross receipts $200,000 or greater or total assets $500,000 or greater | 990 |
The e-Postcard is due by the 15th day of the fifth month after the close of your tax year. Lions clubs operate on a fiscal year, July 1-June 30, and the e-Postcard is due by November 15 each year. Please note that an organization cannot request an extension for filing the Form 990-N.
If you do not file, you risk losing your tax-exempt status. Any Lions club that fails to meet its annual reporting requirement for three consecutive years will automatically lose its tax exempt status. A club may apply for reinstatement of its tax exemption even if it originally fell under a group exemption.
Every club and/or district (single, sub- and multiple) must have an employer identification number (EIN), even if it will not have employees. The EIN is a unique number that identifies the organization to the Internal Revenue Service. To apply for an EIN, you should obtain a Form SS-4 and its instructions from the IRS. You may also apply for an EIN online, by telephone (1-800-829-4933) or by fax (fax number at
the location accepting applications from your state). It is important that clubs and districts use the correct EIN for their annual filing.
Please note that Lions Clubs International is not authorized to provide guidance regarding your club’s filing. For frequently asked questions about tax issues and regulations affecting Lions clubs and leadership, visit the Lions Tax FAQ. Visit www.irs.gov/eo for complete details and to sign up for Exempt Organization’s free email newsletter, EO Update, to receive up-to-date information posted on the charity pages of irs.gov. For specific questions please contact a local tax professional or the IRS.
Legal Division
Lions Clubs International
* Prior to December 31, 2010, gross receipt limits for filing the 990-N was $25,000.
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