Greetings mighty Lions of MD36

Greetings mighty Lions of MD36. As we continue our Lions journey together this Lions year it reminds me of the reason, I love being a Lion. As I receive many emails, I’m reminded time and time again why I became a Lion.

So many studies have proven that every person who is or has been a volunteer feels good doing good. Through the studies it was proven that older volunteers were less likely to have high blood pressure compared to their non- volunteer counterparts. I found this very interesting as I love to volunteer, and I have great blood pressure. The study also showed that younger volunteers had similar findings. The studies suggested that being a volunteer may help you live longer. The study over a four-year period found that those that volunteered at least 100 hours per year had a reduced risk of dying compared to non-volunteers.

Our Lions are the largest service organization in the world. Lions are a volunteer organization that believes in making a difference to those we serve both in our communities and around the world.

You have heard me repeatedly talk about Mission 1.5 and membership growth. This is a commitment I made when the program first rolled out at the 2023/2024 International convention. The future of Lions is up to each one of us. WE NEED TO ASK. I often say we never know until we ask. I have asked many non-Lions that have said they are to busy . That was me over 35 years ago.

In the study the question was put out to various Lions as to how I incorporate volunteering into an already busy life.

Volunteering requires time out of your life to make a difference to those we serve. One member responded that my volunteering service not only benefits those I serve, but it also enhances my own life. It allows me to enjoy valuable experiences outside my daily routine.

Another answer being a Lion is about embracing humanity and enriching one’s sense of self. This Lion went on to say it allows me to live with integrity by dedicating myself to serving others while managing my personal life.

Life is always going to be busy for most of us. The key is prioritizing what’s important to each of us. Being a Lion and serving as a volunteer brings about simple happiness and satisfaction in a busy life.

 So, I ask each of you great Lions of MD36 why not share the opportunity of service with our non-Lions.  Joining Lions will give others a wonderful opportunity to be involved with service projects that can make a difference to their community while also making new friends. I remember a quote I read by Elisabeth Andrew: (VOLUNTEERS DO NOT NECESSARILY HAVE THE TIME: THEY HAVE THE HEART)

When we share with those non-Lions the opportunity of serving with Lions and they say they are too busy, remind them of the heart they have to serve others and that they can be a volunteer with the largest service organization in the world. They can give their time the best they can and still make a difference. Always remember, one of the simplest and most impactful acts of kindness each of you mighty Lions of MD36 can do is share the joy of being a Lion by inviting friends and family to join you in service.

Thank each of you for all you do for others. In service SERVING FROM THE HEART, MAKING OUR MARK AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE. Council Chair Lion Lynn MD36

Pleasure It Is to Be Your Council Chair This Lions Year

Great Lions family of Multiple District 36. What a pleasure it is to be your Council Chair this Lions year. I love being a Lion and serving others. We have the opportunity of attending District conventions and meetings with International Lions that bring many words of encouragement and wisdom to grow as an organization. These conventions give us opportunities to meet up with Lions family throughout our multiple district. We just finished up with district 36-R convention. We had the honor of international guest Anthony Paradiso from New York. He was part of District Governor school when I was district governor Lions year 2021/22. It was nice to meet him in person as that year everything, including the International Convention, was virtual.

ID Lion Anthony brought words of encouragement and inspiration on why we as Lions need membership growth. How we as Lions have strength in numbers.  He spoke on how we can partner with a like-minded organization wanting to make a difference.

Our multiple district 36 candidate for International Director Lion Phyllis Carlin from Crooked River Lions gave follow-up words of wisdom on Lions serving together as we travel on this journey in Lionism. The convention was well attended. What stood out was the support of the other District Governors Lions Carrie, Paul & Pete in attending DG Lion Lindas and 36-R convention. This is the multiple district working together. I encourage the Lions of the multiple district attend as many of these district conventions and especially your multiple district convention that they can. You not only learn from great speakers, but the fellowship is outstanding.

 The convention also featured our Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing foundation. There was a vision panel with three of our vision screeners from 36-R, a school nurse from the Albany school district and Lion Matt Phillips our school vision screening & technology director. Their session gave proof of the difference we as Lions working with our schools and foundation is making. OLSHF also did a ROAR session with Alex Huse, Nick Shenfeld and Lion Melinda Rhodes our patient service director at OLSHF.  Our ROAR program has grown and has changed so many lives of those we serve.

We also heard from the Candlelighters who provide support to families with children with cancer. This is one of the Lions causes. Thank you, Lions, for purchasing raffle tickets as proceeds went to the Candlelighter organization.

The reason I point out these speakers from the 36-R convention is because this is what Lions do to change lives through the great work we do. We as Lions are part of the largest service organization in the world. This is why we want to continue to increase our membership. As I believe the more members the more service. 

If each Lion in our Multiple district would ASK (the key word is ASK) we could double our membership. With that we could double the impact we make on our communities. We ask ourselves how we do that and get results. I want to think there are two things involved for growth. First, we need to be engaged with our communities. Second, we need to be engaged with each club member. This means we need to be offering opportunities to lead and contribute in meaningful ways. When members are happy about what they are doing they want to invite others to be a part of it. The Lions I know joined our organization with a passion and fire to serve others and give back. Let’s continue our journey to growth in the Lions together one step at a time.

SOMETIMES THE SMALLEST STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION ENDS UP BEING THE BIGGEST STEP OF YOUR LIFE.

Thank you for allowing me to serve the multiple district as your Council Chair.

                                                                                             CC Lion Lynn Coon

It Is Awesome to be a Lion and Serve the Communities of Oregon & Northern California

Greetings fellow Lions of MD36, have I said lately how awesome it is to be a Lion and serve the communities of Oregon & Northern California. Serving with you Lions has been a journey and as your council chair has given me the opportunity of meeting so many with the same mindset as myself. Lions with the heart for service. I wonder where the year has gone as we are in the second half of this Lions year. I would like each of our clubs to reevaluate where you are with your goals and do, we need to adjust for the remainder of this Lions year. How are we doing at getting our service reported to LCI? As you know, the reporting of service is our way of sharing with others our service successes. We do the service, be proud of what you do. How are we doing with donations to OLSHF and LCIF. You know with your club donations there are opportunities for awards to present to your club members. How many read in the last donation request from LCIF that district 36-R was highlighted as receiving a $10,000? Grant for disaster preparedness.  How are we doing with membership growth and retention? What can we do to keep our members and what can we do to grow our clubs? The more members the more services we can provide for our communities.

 Your multiple district GAT team is setting the five-year plan goals starting with year 1. The team is focused on three main initiatives to start with.

1.      Recruitment campaign: One of the most effective ways to recruit is JUST ASK, have your club hold a membership drive. It can generate interest in your club, and it can put your club in front of more potential members. It can get your club more involved with your community. It will put your club out where the public sees them and the service they provide.

2.      Open house for your club: When organizing and holding an open house in your community make it a fun and informational event. Be prepared with Lions’ material of what Lions are all about. What’s in it for them if they join. Be ready to address questions as they arise. Remember one important thing and that is to listen and find out what their passions are and think how we can implement their passion into the club.

3.       Onboarding: This is the process of introducing your new members to the culture of Lions and your own club. This will also send a warm message to the new members and provide them with understanding and will make them outstanding members of your club. It will also give the new members the confidence that their membership and service are making a difference.

   As we continue this five-year plan it will continue with next year’s council and thereafter as we grow our multiple district back to the numbers we used to have before covid set in and changed everything. At this writing we will have already had Lions Clubs International 2nd Vice President Mark Lyons here to present a MD 36 Mission 1.5 workshop. I hope those of you that attended came away all fired up to help our Multiple District grow. As you know membership is a passion of mine because I want others to have the same opportunity of serving others and the fellowship of other Lions.  To quote the late President of the United States Lion Jimmy Carter: LIONS CHANGED MY LIFE. I WOULD NEVER HAVE BEEN AMBITIOUS ENOUGH TO RUN FOR GOVERNOR OF GEORGIA. I WOULD NEVER HAVE DREAMED OF BEING PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES IF IT WERE NOT FOR THE LIONS.  End quote. Now I’m not saying you will be governor or the president of the United States if you’re a Lion but when I joined 35 years ago I never dreamed I would have had the opportunity and honor  to serve as a District Governor twice or have the honor to serve as your Council Chair this year but joining the largest service organization in the word has changed my life because I was asked .

One of the goals this Lions year was to develop more leaders to serve the clubs, the districts and to serve the multiple district .  There is a great opportunity to attend the Northwest Lions Leadership training along with fellow Lions from MD 19. Our Global Leadership Team leader PCC Lion Rod Bach has secured a grant from LCIF to pay the tuition for ten Lions to attend May 1-4 in Post Falls Idaho. If you are interested in furthering your knowledge and developing leadership skills. These skills are not only to help as a Lion but can be used in your workplace, your community and your everyday life. It is a great way to grow while learning with like-minded Lions wanting to make their mark and make a difference. So please contact PCC Lion Rod at rodbach@gmail.com and make plans to grow as a leader.

Lastly don’t forget its convention time so register and support your District Governors and fellowship with fellow Lions.

They start February 8th 36-R International guest ID Anthony Paradiso -Corvallis, Oregon

March 21st / 22nd   36-E International guest PIP Brian Sheehan/Lion Lori – Central Point, Oregon

March 28th /29th 36-O International guest ID Bert Nelson / Lion Pamela – Milwaukie, Oregon

April 4th/5th 36-G International guest PIP Joe Preston / Lion Joni- Hood River, Oregon

May 15th- 18th Multiple District 36 International guest ID Hans Neidhart/ Lion Shari- Pendelton, Oregon

Thank you, Lions for your support of your District Governors and myself and giving us the opportunity of serving the Lions throughout MD36. Serving from the heart. Together making our mark and making a difference.  Council Chair Lion Lynn Coon MD36

We Can All Work Together and Make Our Mark And Make a Difference to Those We Serve

Good day Lions of Multiple District 36. Hope all of you Lions had a joyful holiday season. As we transition from 2024 into 2025, as the old year ends and the new year begins let’s all hope for a better year. That the conflicts that surround us and the indifferences throughout the world can be set aside. That we can all work together and make our mark and make a difference to those we serve.

I remember when serving with International President Lion Patti Hill that her theme of Changing the World made me think to myself, that is what each Lion I know wants to see and do. She also stated that it’s the journey, not the destination. To make that journey there is no middle and no end. There is, however, the beginning. Many of us wanted to serve and give back in some way to make a difference.  Then someone asked us to join the largest service organization in the world, THE LIONS.

Over my thirty-five years of serving as a Lion, I cannot thank the Lion that asked me enough for taking the time to not give up on me joining. Lion Paul of the Woodburn Lions was that Lion. In those thirty-five years I have found the following to be so true about Lions.

They have big hearts; they are amazing people who do amazing things. Lions love service and show and perform acts of kindness as they serve. Lions are some of the best volunteers I know, and I love to serve beside. In one way or another Lions make a difference that individuals see and feel every day. It’s those small acts of kindness and service that we do together that will make our mark on the world.

This brings me to Mission 1.5 and membership growth. You’ve heard it before, if you don’t ask you will never know. Our goal for the Lions of Multiple District 36 is to end our Lions year with a positive net growth. Each one of your District Governors is committed to growth in their districts. We have until the end of June to share that journey of making our world a better place with non-Lions, but we must ask. I believe if we show our passions of serving others there is nothing we can’t accomplish. If we show compassionate service, putting our hearts in action, taking care of members and our communities – We Will Grow. We will be changing non-Lions’ lives and empowering them to serve alongside us to make our mark and make a difference. 

Thank each of you Lions for your service to others. Council Chair Lion Lynn MD36

HAPPY HOLIDAYS LIONS OF MD36

The holiday season reminds us of all the many things we have to be thankful for in our lives. Our families, our friends and the communities in which we live. While we think of all we have I ask each of us to think of those who really have nothing. Maybe we can brighten someone’s day by doing a little something to help them out with a lift this holiday season. As Lions we have the power to change someone’s life, not only during this holiday season but throughout the year. I want to thank each Lion and every club that takes extra time out of this busy time of the year to serve others. Each of you is making a difference.

Kathy and I talk often of how important serving others and spreading kindness as we make our journey through this life. We talk about how we feel knowing if we only help one person or a group we are making a difference to them. I’m reminded of a news article I read a few years back and I feel it is a perfect time to share with the Lions of MD36.

It was titled DO SOMETHING GOOD. It talks about following your heart and doing something kind today and each day you are blessed to have. How showing kindness to others can make you smile, how it can set off a ripple or wave of generosity in others.  The article went on to say that researchers reviewed decades of studies of over 25,000 individuals in which participants witnessed someone act in a helpful way and then had the opportunity to be of service to random people themselves.

It is called “GOAL CONTAGION “which occurs when people catch the desire to serve others after seeing someone else act selflessly. This article reminded me that this is proof of service and acts of kindness really are contagious, and we Lions can make a difference not only during the holidays but year-round. As the late Lion Haynes Townsand said KINDNESS MATTERS. A quote from Mark Twain “Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see “

So as each of you Lions continue to serve your communities and show kindness to others, think about the lives we are changing and making a difference too, not only during the holidays but throughout the year.  

May your holidays be filled with joy and happiness as you share with family and friends, enjoy each other and be thankful for all you have and what you might share with those with nothing. In doing so you will not only be serving from your heart, but you will be making your mark and making a difference to those you serve.

                                            In service Council Chair Lion Lynn & Kathy Coon MD36

Do Everything with a Good Heart and Expect Nothing in Return and You Will Never be Disappointed.

Greetings Lions of Multiple District 36, here we are three months into our Lions year. The weather is changing, and we are busy getting things done before winter sets in. Some of our clubs are starting back up after the summer off. School has started back up and our clubs are active with our Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation getting our kids screened. It’s a great day to be a Lion and providing service in our communities. My last few articles have concentrated on Mission 1.5 membership growth. This article I would like to talk about Service.

To me service is the heart of recruitment for new members. Most people want to join Lions because they have a heart for service. They want to be part of making a difference where they live. They want to do something that can impact those in need. They want to join in beside Lions because when we do good, we feel good. There is a special feeling that comes to those who serve and perform acts of kindness.

The late Hanes Townsand was known for his (KINDNESS MATTERS) so while our primary motivation for service is always helping those in need, it’s amazing the way it makes us feel.

It starts in our clubs with service projects that make a difference in our communities. As we perform these acts of service and kindness, we often find they affect more then those we serve they affect us as individuals and Lions. That good feeling.

Serving others gives us opportunities for personal growth. By inviting friends and family to join in on these service projects we give them the opportunity to experience what we do. That experience of feeling good while doing good. I believe the service we provide and the lives we touch change lives for the better including our own. Service can be fun and can build club fellowship. It can make community connections with those that know nothing about Lions. We bond we serve, and we do it with a grateful heart, knowing we are making an impact where we live. Hopefully as we invite others to join us in service, they see what we have to offer and the benefit of being a Lion. As I said service is the heartbeat of membership.

The simplest and most impactful act of kindness we as Lions can perform is to share the joy of being a Lion with friends and family to join in service alongside of us. They may not join right away but trust me you have planted the seed.

DO EVERYTHING WITH A GOOD HEART AND EXPECT NOTHING IN RETURN AND YOU WILL NEVER BE DISAPPOINTED. (Lessons in Life)

I want to thank each of you Lions of MD36 for the service you provide others.

Serving from the heart. Together making our mark and making a difference.

Council Chair Lion Lynn Coon MD36

Coming Together is the Beginning, Keeping Together is Progress, and Working Together is Success

Greetings Lions of Multiple-District 36, as a close friend and fellow Lion often says It’s a great day to be a Lion. Indeed, it is, I love serving my community   as each of you Lions do. I love belonging to the Lions of multiple district 36 Oregon & Northern California. I love belonging to the world’s largest service organization the Lions.

Our multiple-district has a great opportunity for membership growth this Lions year. We have District Governors committed to membership growth and retention within their districts. We have District Governors that want to build a legacy, to move forward, upward and onward, to have fun being a Lion and knowing more members means more service.

Lions International last month held a Mission 1.5 summit training in Orlando Florida. There we met with other Lions from within our constitutional area 1 and leaders from LCI. We shared ways to have membership growth, to build new clubs. Having round tables with other districts collaborating ideas. We were very surprised that our constitutional area has not had a net gain in membership for forty years.  It was also interesting that districts struggle as our multiple-district does.

We had a couple of questions presented to us during the summit.

 (1) Do you love being a Lion?

 (2) Are you willing to let Lionism die with you?

 The answer is yes, I love being a Lion and No I’m not willing to let Lionism die with me. So, what are we Lions of the multiple district 36 going to do about it?

The answer lies in us inviting our non-member friends, family and associates to come help us change someone’s life, come help us strengthen our community come help us serve and make a difference.

There is a sign I see as I enter Keizer that has inscribed (SPIRIT, PRIDE & VOLINTEERISM).

I believe each one of you Lions shows these traits every day as a Lion member. Each one of you Lions should sense a belonging as a member as you serve your community. You belong to the Lions pride, and they take care of those around them. When kind and like-minded people gather to serve others, beautiful things happen. Lion members are like minded men and women that give of their time and volunteer to make a difference where they live. I ask each of you Lions of MD36 to support and join your District Governors as we continue forward with membership growth. I remember Past International President Lion Doug Alexander often saying (EACH ONE BRING ONE). Just imagine if each member asked one person to join the Lions family how much service we could provide. Fellow Lions, the future of Lionism lies in our hands. Are we willing to let it die with us? I hope your answer is NO. Lets work as a team and make our mark for the future.  As Henry Ford once said about teamwork. COMING TOGETHER IS THE BEGINNING, KEEPING TOGETHER IS PROGRESS AND WORKING TOGETHER IS SUCCESS.

SERVING FROM THE HEART, TOGETHER MAKING OUR MARK AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE. Council Chair Lion Lynn MD36

It’s a Great Day To Be a Lion and To Make a Difference

Lions of Multiple District 36, it’s a great day to be a Lion and to make a difference to those we serve and our communities. This is our year to make a difference. This is our year to Make Your Mark as Lions.

Our new International President 2024/25 is Fabrico Oliveira and his theme for this Lions year is Make Your Mark. How are the Lions of MD36 going to Make Your Mark?

Lions you make your mark whenever you serve your community. You make your mark with every pair of glasses we give someone in need. You make your mark with every school screening you help with. You make your mark with every flag for first graders you give to a child. You make your mark with every hearing assistance we give.  You make your mark when you help at the foodbank or meals on wheels.

 As our International President Oliveira states and I quote: Each time we serve we bring kindness and compassion. Each time we serve our communities we bring change and hope. Each time we serve we Make Our Mark on the lives of those we touch, the communities we serve and the world we share. End Quote.

This Lions year each District Governor is committed to Mission 1.5. This was launched at international convention 2023/24 in Boston under leadership of International President Lion Patti Hill. This is our chance to increase our membership to 1.5 by the year 2027. I know each of our governors are committed. Won’t you join them as we grow the membership in Multiple District 36 and Make Your Mark in serving more individuals and communities. All it takes is to ask because we never know unless we do. Think of the impact we can make with more members in our clubs to serve.

Make a difference in someone’s life every day. It does make a difference. Each one of us can make a difference. It doesn’t take much to give another encouragement. The most meaningful acts are often the ones we commit without prompting or expectation. When you lend an ear, a hand or an act of kindness, you are Making Your Mark.

Please join me as I join our District Governors continuing what was started 2023/24 on membership growth with Mission1.5 and let’s hit that goal of 1.5 million members by Lions year 2027.

In closing I want to thank each Lion in MD36 for what you do for others. For Making Your Mark in serving your communities.

Serving from the heart, together we are Making our Mark and making a difference. Council Chair Lion Lynn Coon MD36

We Need Each Of You Lions To Join Us As We Serve

     Greetings Lions of Multiple District 36.  As we begin our new Lions year, I’m excited to see the positive direction we as the Lions of Oregon & Northern California are going. We have four district governors ready to serve and bring great things to their respective districts. District O DG Lion Carrie Bartley, District R DG Lion Linda Stent, District E DG Lion Paul Novak and District G DG Lion Pete Runnels.  As Council Chair I have the opportunity of serving with each of these amazing district governors. We met prior to international convention and discussed the cabinets of each district and the chairs for the multiple district.

     To you Lions that have stepped up to serve, thank you. Your commitment and willingness to serve means you want what’s best for your fellow Lions and your communities.  As we met as a council, we wanted to see changes that will make a difference.  Changes that will impact the Lions we serve and those communities we serve.

     We want to rejuvenate our clubs with new members working towards Mission 1.5 members by Lions year 2027.  We want to Re-motivate our existing Lions with great fellowship and exciting service projects.  We want to build a vision for our clubs, districts and our multiple district. The vision of making this a legendary Lions year.

     As the great Alabama football coach Nick Saban would say to his players prior to every game:  “What happened yesterday is history.  What happens tomorrow is a mystery.  What we do today makes a difference.”  Yesterday is gone, we can’t change that.  We have no idea what tomorrow will bring.  Today we can work hard for the Lions of Md36 and that is our vision.  We want to develop new leaders to make this journey with us and to continue positive impact for the future.

     We as Lions need to do more than belong, we need to participate. There are no secrets in Lions, we are known for giving our time to others.  As Lions we all have one thing in common. WE WANT TO SERVE.

      We look to make a difference for the Lions of Multiple district 36.  We need each of you Lions to join us as We Serve.  We want to hear from you with ideas to make this Journey as Lions one of working together to make a difference.  The stronger the clubs the stronger the district.  The stronger the districts the stronger the multiple district.  To have success in all we do we must work together to make the difference.

     Coming together is a beginning, keeping together is progress, working together is success. (Henry Ford)

     I look forward to our year and thank you Lions of Multiple District 36 for all you do. SERVICE FROM THE HEART.  I firmly believe that when we Lions serve from our hearts, we go beyond making a difference in our communities. We are in fact Changing the World.

Council Chair MD36 Lion Lynn Coon

Thanks To All Who Will Step Up To Serve

Lions changed my life

   Earlier this spring I went to Central Oregon Eye Care in Redmond to pick up some glasses and have them fitted. Instead of the gentleman who usually takes care of this, I was met by a young woman. It took me a moment to recognize her. It was Anna, my club’s first scholarship recipient. She looked and acted so grown up. Quite different from when we first met her 10 years ago as a high school senior.

   After she fitted my glasses we chatted about the scholarship program and I told her how it had grown. “Unlike the early years when we could only give one scholarship, we now give up to ten.” But then I said, “But none were more meaningful and special that the one we gave to you. And her reply to me was, “Receiving that scholarship changed my life. Without it I would not have been able to go to college and I wouldn’t be where I am today.

   You see, Anna was not the top in her class but when we interviewed her it became clear that she had a servant’s heart. The first in her family to go to college, she is now thriving. Her boss states that if ever we ever made a “right decision”, it was in selecting Anna to be our first scholarship recipient.

   A month or so later I was having my yard thatched. The gentleman doing the work brought his two sons to help. I mentioned our scholarship program. And he said, “Oh, you’re a Lion?” I answered affirmatively. He went on to say, “I was raised by a single mother. We didn’t have any money. You bought me glasses. And that changed my life.”

   Twice in two months I heard this. “Lions changed my life.” While not all our service can be placed in the “life changing” category, we do many things in service to others in many ways. And for those of us who desire to serve our communities and help others, Lions provides us with an amazing vehicle. As individuals, we can certainly do some things in service to others. But when we combine our talents and energies with likeminded people, our service is increased exponentially. So much can be done when we have “A Common Heartbeat for Service”. What a gift Lions is both to those who need help as well as to those who wish to serve.

It was a wonderful convention

   Having recently returned from the Lions State Convention in Bandon, I am reflecting on the wonderful time that we had in this beautiful location. It was our 100th convention and what a celebration it was. From great presentations, to a Pediatric Cancer walk, to the opportunity to exchange ideas with other Lions, to the renewal of friendships and the chance to make new friends, it was a special convention. I would like to give a shout out to the Convention Committee Host Clubs, the Bandon and Coos Bay Lions Clubs as well as to PDG Bryan Longland, the Host Committee Chairperson. I would also like to thank the Convention Operating Committee. Which has been meeting and planning since last fall to ensure that convention was a wonderful experience for us all.  Thanks go out to:

PCC Bob Chaney                            Chairperson, Protocol

PCC Vince Bishop                           Vice-chairperson

Lion Fran Silbernagel                     Secretary, Decorations

Lion Nancy Lockett                          Treasurer

PDG Tom Hilgers                            Registrar

Lion Jim Vincent                              Nominations and Credentials

PCC Joyce Anderson                     Facilities, Forums/Speakers

PCC Gail Black                                Forums/Speakers

PCC Paul Zastrow                           Basket Raffle

Lion Paula Hilgers                           Decorations

Lion Trudy Novak                             Decorations

PID Sunny Pulley                            Advisor

   Next year’s state convention will be held in Pendleton. Home of the Pendleton Round Up. Pendleton is seeped in history and is so much fun to visit. Hope to see you there!

Thanks for a wonderful year

   In closing, I would like to say thank you all for a wonderful year. Special thanks go out to our outstanding DG Team Ed Glad, Lynn Coon, Steve Brewster and Pete Runnels, who were the “Boots on the Ground” in terms of making things happen this year. I would also like to thank all who served as State Chairpersons of State Committees, all who served as District Chairpersons and on District Committees, all who served as Zone Chairs and all who served as club officers. Thank you for making our organization operate seamlessly.

   And finally, thanks to all who will step up to serve next year. In less than a month I’ll be turning over the reins of MD-36 to CCE Lynn Coon. Lynn has some innovative ideas and I’ll be excited to see what is accomplished next year.

   All the best to you all as we head into our Lions New Year of service. I look forward to seeing you during the upcoming year at conventions, at your club’s service projects and fundraisers and maybe even at a club meeting or two.

The best to you all,

CC Phyllis Carlin

Why LCIF?

     There’s something very exciting going on in the northeast corner of our state.  In the Wallowas, an area of great natural beauty, a non-motorized trail is being built alongside existing railroad tracks within the publicly-owned Wallowa-Union Railroad Authority.  The trail, known as the Trail-with-Rail, is being spearheaded by the Joseph Branch Trail Consortium.

     Winding through the Grand Ronde and Wallowa River valleys, the trail will begin in Elgin and end 63 miles later in Joseph, connecting the towns of Minam, Wallowa, Lostine and Enterprise along the way.  The trail will offer residents and visitors of all ages and abilities a safe and accessible way to get outdoors to recreate, commute and exercise away from ever-busier roads and highways.

     It will probably come as no surprise that the Elgin Lions are involved in this project.  The trailhead will be built on the 27-acre parcel of land directly across from the Elgin Train Depot, which will also serve as Pocket Park for the city.  The Elgin Lions are working on financing a public restroom at the park for the city as well as those utilizing the trail.  Through an LCIF Community Impact Grant, District G was awarded over $3,000 which will be used to jumpstart this project.

     On the other side of the state, District R was awarded a $100,000 Hunger Grant which will be used to build a new Ella Curren Food Bank in Polk County.  The current food bank in Independence serves people in 16 different zip codes.  Last year 37,000 people or roughly 3,580 people a month were served.  With the grant money, the food bank will be rebuilt.  The grant requires that the district match a percentage of the grant totaling $12,500 and that $12,500 be raised from other resources.  This grant was approved by the Lions International Board of Directors this past February.

     These are the two grants that we received from Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) in 2024.  Since 1984, MD-36 and its individual districts have received LCIF grants totaling $1,969,059.  These grants range from renovation of the Oral Hull kitchen to the purchase of an ambulance to the construction of a patient guest house to equipping a low vision clinic to a kennel expansion for Dogs for the Deaf and many more.  Emergency grants received include flood relief, wildfire relief and COVID relief.

     If you have a grant request idea, please work with your District Governor to get it submitted to LCIF.  Grant categories include:  ● SightFirst  ● Matching  ● Diabetes  ● Disaster  ● Lions Quest  ● Designated  ● LCIF Leo Service  ● Community Impact  ● Hunger  ● Childhood Cancer

More information on grants can be found on the Lions International website.

     It’s yearly budget planning time for many clubs.  As you plan where and how you will give, please consider a donation to LCIF.  Around the time you receive May’s Oregon Lion, I am going to ask district secretaries to distribute a comprehensive list of all grants we have received from LCIF since 1984.  When you see the enormity of these grants, I think you will be amazed, as was I. 

     Please consider giving generously to LCIF.

Yours sincerely,

Phyllis Carlin, Council Chair

Let’s Celebrate Us!

Let’s Tell Our Story!

     For several years now -- Lions International has encouraged clubs to tell our story by encouraging us to no longer be the “best kept secret” in our communities.  Lions across MD36 have headed the call.  Striving to tell our story in many mediums, Lions have established Facebook and Instagram pages, updated websites and utilized local publications as a way of sharing our story.

     By sharing service stories with our communities we increase our clubs’ visibility, inspire new members to join and bring new awareness of the people and causes we serve.  When thinking about sharing a service story, please consider the following:

·        Why does your story matter to your community?  Did your club feed the hungry, care for the environment or help prevent diabetes?  Are these causes important to your community?

·        Which details best show your impact?  Did your club serve 100 families, plant 100 trees or volunteer 100 hours?

·        What headlines will get the most attention?  Can you ask a question, make a promise or spark curiosity so the reader is drawn in to learn more?

Finnian, the tiger rockfish, is made entirely of plastic marine debris.  A product of Washed Ashore, Art to Save the Sea, Finnian is designed by a lead artist and supported by dedicated staff and hundreds of volunteers who collect trash from the Oregon Coast.  Finnian graces the back entrance to Old Town Bandon.

·        Can a photo or photos enhance your story? – The quote, “A picture is worth a thousand words” is often true.  Use photos to help tell your story.  For example, if I tell you in Bandon, Oregon there’s a giant rockfish named Finnian made entirely of plastic marine debris or if I show you a picture of Finnian, which has the greater impact?

Let’s Celebrate!

    Let’s Celebrate!

     State conventions are always special but this one will be even more so as it’s our 100th annual convention!  We will have many traditional activities along with some new, exciting additions.  The convention will be held in Bandon on May 17th and 18th.  Registration forms can be found on the MD36 website at www.md36lionsclubs.org.  I hope to see you there!

     Our convention committee is working very hard to make this a special event for all.   I would like to share some of the convention highlights with you:

     We welcome International Director Robert Lee (Bob) and his wife Pamela to convention.  ID Bob is a civil engineer and licensed land surveyor.  He has held many offices within our association.  In addition, he has served as the host committee chairperson of the 2015 International Convention in Honolulu, past chairperson of the Lions Eye Bank of Hawaii and past president and trustee of the Hawaii Lions Foundation.  It is special for me to have ID Bob as our guest as he and I were in the same District Governor training class with our our own PID Sunny Pulley as instructor!

     New to convention is the Walk-a-Thon to help “kick” pediatric cancer.  The walk can be done in segments or all at once.  Proceeds from the walk will go to two pediatric cancer camps, Camp UKANDU and Camp Millennium, for scholarships for children whose families can’t afford to send them to camp.  Registration for the walk can be found on the convention registration form. 

     Reminiscent of speakeasies of 100 years ago, the “Lions Speakeasy” will open at 8:00 pm on Thursday evening at the Bandon Community Center.  For those of you arriving on Thursday, this gives you the opportunity to meet our international guests in an informal setting.  Gather with Lions from around the state to renew friendships and make new friends at the ”Lions Speak Easy”.  Feel free to dress in the attire of the era if you so desire. 

     At convention, we would like to celebrate our Multiple District through a slideshow featuring all clubs in MD-36, but we need your help to make this happen.  Springfield Lion Henry Miller has volunteered to compile this slideshow for us.  Please e-mail Lion Henry two to four pictures of your club participating in service or fundraising projects and one group photo of your club.  Henry will need these photos by April 15th.  His email is: papa1henry@aol.com.

     And speaking of photos, don’t forget the MD36 Nature Photo Contest.  Send your favorite nature photos to md36photos@gmail.com.  You may send up to four photos.  The top five photos will be selected by an independent panel of photographers.  Then, at convention, attendees will select the contest winner from the top five photos.  Send your entries by April 15th.

     Let’s share new ideas with each other both through convention presentations and through informal discussion!  Let’s make new friends and renew old friendships!  Let’s walk to “kick” pediatric cancer!  Let’s showcase the amazing work our clubs do and the beauty of our state!  Let’s Celebrate Us!

     If you have questions about convention, please do not hesitate to contact any of the following:

Convention Chairperson Bob Chaney -  dcmail@dcmail.info or 541-817-2018                                                                                                   Council Chairperson Phyllis Carlin - pascarlin@gmail.com or 541-604-4816

     I look forward to seeing you in Bandon in May!

It’s Our 100th Annual Convention!

     State conventions are always special but this one will be even more so as it’s our 100th annual convention!  We will have many traditional activities along with some new and exciting additions.  The convention will be held in Bandon on May 17th and 18th.  Our convention committee is working very hard to make this a special event for all and we hope you will attend!  I would like to share some of the convention highlights:

     We welcome International Director Robert Lee (Bob) and his wife Pamela to convention.  ID Bob is a civil engineer and licensed land surveyor.  He has held many offices within our association.  In addition, he has served as the host committee chairperson of the 2015 International Convention in Honolulu, past chairperson of the Lions Eye Bank of Hawaii and past president and trustee of the Hawaii Lions Foundation.  Some of you from District O may remember him as he was your virtual international guest last year at the District O Convention.  It is special for me to have ID Bob as our guest as he and I were in the same District Governor training class with our own PID Sunny Pulley as instructor.  It gets to be a small Lions world after a while!

     New to convention is the Walk-a-Thon to help “kick” pediatric cancer.  The walk can be done in segments or all at once.  Proceeds from the walk will go to two pediatric cancer camps, Camp UKANDU and Camp Millennium, for scholarships for children whose families can’t afford to send them to camp.  Registration for the walk can be found on the convention registration form.

     Reminiscent of speakeasies of 100 years ago, the Lions Speakeasy will open at 8:00 pm on Thursday evening at the Bandon Community Center.  For those of you arriving on Thursday, this gives you the opportunity to meet our international guests in an informal setting.  Gather with Lions from around the state to renew friendships and make new friends at the Lions Speakeasy.  Feel free to dress in the attire of the era if you so desire.

     At convention, we would like to celebrate our Multiple District with a slideshow featuring all clubs in MD-36 but we need your help to make this happen.  Springfield Lion Henry Miller has volunteered to compile this slideshow for us.  Please e-mail Lion Henry two to four pictures of your club participating in service or fundraising projects and one group photo of your club.  Henry will need these photos by April 15th.  His email is: papa1henry@aol.com.

     And speaking of photos, don’t forget the MD-36 Nature Photo Contest.  Send your favorite nature photos to md36photos@gmail.com.  You may send up to four photos.  The top five photos will be selected by an independent panel of photographers.  Then, at convention, attendees will select the contest winner.  Send in your entries by April 15th.  Let’s showcase the beauty of our state!

     Looking forward to seeing many of you in Bandon in May.

Change Happens Through Many Small Choices

     On Christmas Eve I was “chomping at the bit”.  I could hardly wait to get to the movie theater to watch The Boys in the Boat, the story of the 1936 University of Washington crew team who defied all odds and won Olympic gold in the 1936 Olympics or “Hitler’s Olympics” as they were known.  Set in the heart of the great depression, it is a story of resilience, determination, overcoming adversity and most importantly, the power of teamwork.  This hardscrabble group of young men defied all odds in their momentous win.

     This story probably appeals to me so much because of my background.  As a former teacher, coach and high school administrator for the Department of Defense Schools in Europe, in retrospect, I feel I had the most influence in my role as coach.  I am still in touch with these “kids” who are now in their 40’s and 50’s. And through the miracles of modern technology, I’ve gotten to see them pursue professional ambitions, fall in love, raise their families and lead wonderful, productive lives.  And when they talk about their high school athletic experiences, what it meant to them and what they gleaned from these experiences that they carried into their adult lives, I am filled with joy.

     As Lions, we are very much a team.  And while we are striving to serve, not to win a game, a match or a race, many components of teamwork come into play.  As an individual who wishes to serve, what can I accomplish?  Certainly some things, but when you join with like-minded people this effort becomes compounded and service greatly increased.  Yet there are challenges for all teams or groups.  As Lions we aren’t all alike.  We don’t think the same, don’t feel the same, we don’t act the same; we are not clones of each other.  So how do we perform as a well-oiled team as we channel our common desire to serve?

     Going back to The Boys in the Boat, I recently read an article by Rick Ezell entitled “12 Lessons from the Boys in the Boat”, and I encourage you to read the article in its entirety.  I share three points that especially hit home with me and I quote:

·       Races are not won by clones.  They are won by crews with a careful balanced blend of both physical abilities and personality types, of ego and humility.  They must adjust to the needs and capabilities of the other.

·       No stars.  Great oarsmen and oarswomen possess enormous self-confidence, strong egos, titanic will power, and aren’t immune to frustration.  And yet at the same time – and this is key – they have no stars.  The team effort is all that matters.  Not the individual, not the self.

·       Working together as one.  It isn’t enough for the muscles of a crew to work in unison;  their hearts and minds must also be as one.  The losing of self entirely to the cooperative effort of the crew as whole.

     Our current president, Dr. Patti Hill also understands the importance of teamwork.  Through her presidential theme “Changing the World” Hill believes that when we change our communities we change the world one step at a time.   Well aware that change happens gradually, not at once, Hill states that, “change happens through many small choices and with every act of kindness that is given to someone else.”  It is Hill’s belief that through teamwork we can effect this desired change.  Working collaboratively with community leaders, other service organizations and each other, we are better able to help solve the problems facing our communities.

     I will close with my own feelings on teamwork.  It is through teamwork what we develop collegial relationships, form friendships and have lots of fun.  Never underestimate the importance of fun in keeping your club healthy, strong and thriving.

     And speaking of fun, here comes convention season.  Not only will there be informative sessions, our conventions offer great opportunities for networking and renewing friendships with Lions from around your district and the state.  The exchange of information that takes place at convention, be it through session attendance or through the informal exchange with your fellow Lions, can be invaluable.  So mark your calendars.  Our convention season begins with District R on February 3rd in Springfield and ends with the State Convention in Bandon on May 16 and 17 with Districts O, E and G following between.   And remember, it’s our MD36 centennial convention and it’s going to be a special one.  Hope to see you there!

TRADITION AND CHANGE: BOTH HAVE VALUE AND A PLACE AS WE EVALUATE THE NEEDS OF OUR COMMUNITIES

Our New Year of Service

     Happy New Year Lions of MD-36!  I love this time of year as our clubs begin their new year of service.  The two simple words of our motto, “We Serve” drive the actions of 2,796 Lions statewide as we strive to serve the needs of our individual communities and support our statewide and international efforts as well.  Will your club perform traditional service projects or will you look for new and innovative projects to adopt this year?  Or will your club have a combination of both, the traditional and the new?  Tradition and change; both have value and a place as we evaluate the needs of our communities and decide how we can best serve.

     And speaking of service, many Lions across the state participated in holiday service projects, enhancing this special time of the year in their respective communities. Projects ranged from photos with Santa, to food and toy drives to stuffing Christmas stockings for delivery to care centers and more.  In addition, the teambuilding required for designing floats for holiday parades, preparing food for celebrations and activities such as hosting a Movie Night and a Christmas bazar that ran for weeks brought club members together and increased club collegiality through service.

     As we head into the New Year, remember that statewide service projects are once again on tap for our multiple district.  These collegial efforts, which cross District borders, bring Lions across the state together in a common effort to serve.  Thanks to our GST team and especially GST Chair PCC Sharon Rollins for organizing this effort.  The next project will involve hunger awareness and will be held in February.  Stay tuned for more information on this project.

No longer “the best kept secret”

     For years Lions International has been encouraging clubs to share what they are doing for their communities with their communities.  Urging us to no longer be “the best kept secret”, Lions have headed the call and are now getting the word out through their local newspapers, on social media and on websites.  Some clubs have a marketing manager and are actively involved in this effort.

     If your club excels at marketing and you have gained members due to your marketing efforts, Lions International has a contest for you.  The contest is called the Lions International Marketing Award and your club could win $2,000 dollars as well as a trophy and certificates for all members.  Applications are due February 1st, but there is still time to enter if your club has been actively involved in this type of effort.

     Go to the Lions International website and search “The Lions International Marketing Award” to review contest rules and download the application.  Your project must have started on or after July 1, 2023.  The project can be a service project, fundraiser, social media campaign or marketing campaign but it must have a membership recruitment element.  You will need to explain what marketing materials you used as well as the number of members or prospective members gained through this effort.  Good luck.  I hope some of you will consider applying.

The countdown has begun

     In just a little over a month it will be time for our first district convention.  District R will hold its convention on February 3rd in Springfield at the Holiday Inn Express with the other districts following suit in March and April.  Then our 100th state convention will be held in Bandon on May 17th and 18th.  Our centennial convention will be very special with new events and special speakers.  One of the benefits of attending convention is getting to interact with Lions from other areas of the district or state.  In addition, the exchange of information that takes place at convention, be it through session attendance or through the informal exchange with your fellow Lions, can be invaluable.  Registrations forms for District O and District R’s conventions can be found in this edition and are also posted on the MD-36 website.

                                                  2024 here we come

     Best wishes to you all as we head into our New Year of Lions service.  2024 here we come!

LET'S ALWAYS LISTEN TO OUR NEW MEMBERS IDEAS & SUGGESTIONS

     In last month’s column, I was excited to announce that we were in the plus column in membership growth in our multiple district for the first time in many years.  Congratulations to all who have had a hand in this, District Governors, 1st VDG’s, GMT’s, club leaders and members.  Through membership growth planning and asking simply asking a friend or family member to consider joining, we were in the plus column and that felt really good. Through a common vision, we are working as a state-wide team to grow our membership.

     In keeping with the charge of Mission 1.5, which is to build worldwide membership to 1.5 million by 2027, we must continue our efforts as we head into the New Year. Here are some ideas for membership growth:

·       Hold membership drives. Organize events and activities that will attract new members to your club.  This could include community service projects, social events or informational sessions.

·       Use Social media to promote your club.  Share photos and videos of your club’s activities and highlight the benefits of membership.

·       Reach out to potential members personally.  Invite people who you think would be a good fit for your club to join.

·       Make sure your club is welcoming and inclusive.  Create a supportive environment where new members feel valued and respected.

     How about we all make a New Year’s Resolution to “Ask One”.  Let’s keep our growth going!

     And once we have new members, it’s important to actively involve them in the meaningful work of our clubs.  Don’t let them sit on the sidelines, let’s get our new members involved quickly.  Does your club have a membership orientation program? It’s a great way to educate and inform new members about your club and our parent organization. I know District O is working to develop a District Orientation Program and there is also information on orientation programs on the Lions International website.  And let’s always, always listen to our new members’ ideas and suggestions.  New members means new ideas and a refreshing of our clubs and this is exciting.

     We once again are hosting state service projects.  This was kicked off with the statewide eyeglasses collection in October. Thanks to our GST team for getting this going.  The next statewide project will involve hunger awareness and will be held in February.  GST Chair Sharon Rollins will put out more information as the project is developed.  Leadership training for 1st VDG’s took place in November and soon our VDG’s will be heading to St. Charles, Illinois for training conducted by Lions International in preparation for their DG year.  Officer training has taken place across the districts.

     Tis the season.  Many clubs are involved in holiday projects.  From parades to Christmas tree pick-up, from wreath and candy sales to stuffing stockings to be delivered to area assisted living facilities, from photos with Santa to coat and hat drives and many more -- Lions will enhance the holiday spirit in their respective communities through their service.  Thanks for all you do MD36 Lions, not just during the holidays but throughout the year!

     And after the holidays comes the New Year and our convention season begins.  I would like to remind everyone that this year’s State Convention is especially exciting as it’s our 100th convention.  The State Convention Committee is already meeting and working on plans to make this a meaningful and fun convention.  Something new this year, there will be a walk for Pediatric Cancer.  The convention is May 17th and 18th in Bandon.  Here’s the schedule and location for all conventions.  Mark your calendars.  I hope to see you there!

District R Convention - February 3rd     Springfield

District O Convention - March 1st and 2nd       McMinnville

District E Convention - March 23rd    Bandon

District G Convention - April 5th and 6th     Sisters

State Convention – May 17th and 18th     Bandon, Oregon

Let’s Keep It Going!

I’m so excited!

     I’m excited!  I’m so excited.  What, you might ask, are you excited about? The changes I see happening.  The enthusiasm I see building.  Our membership which is growing!

In keeping with the charge of Mission 1.5, which is to build worldwide membership to 1.5 million by 2027, I am pleased to announce that for the first time in many years our Multiple District membership is in the plus column!   On October 23rd we were at +1 for the year and I know that our membership is only going to grow.  So congratulations to all who have had a hand in this; District Governors, 1VDG’s, GMT’s, club leaders and enthusiastic members.  Let’s keep it going!

We Serve

     “We Serve.”  These two simple words guide the actions of Lions clubs all around the world.  And while each club must tailor its service to the needs of its respective community, we want to be aware of the eight global causes of Lions International.  Many clubs have service projects that fall under one or more of these categories. 

• Childhood Cancer – provide support for the needs of children and families affected by childhood cancer.

• Diabetes – reduce the prevalence of diabetes and improve quality of life for those living with diabetes.

• Disaster Relief – meet immediate needs and provide long-term support for communities devastated by natural disasters.

• Environment – protect the environment to create healthier communities and a more sustainable world.

• Humanitarian – identify the world’s most crucial needs and provide humanitarian aid where it’s needed the most.

• Hunger – improve food security and access to nutritious food to help alleviate hunger.

• Vision – help prevent avoidable blindness and improve quality of life for people who are blind or visually impaired.

• Youth – provide young people with the support they need to make positive choices, lead healthy and productive lives and become the next generation of service leaders.

100th MD 36 Convention

Conventions are always special and fun.  But this year’s State convention is especially meaningful and it will be our 100th convention!  The convention will be held May 17th and 18th in Bandon.  Mark your calendar.  I hope to see you there!

What is Mission 1.5?

     I’ve always been proud to be a member of the world’s largest service organization, 1.4 million strong in 46,000 clubs worldwide in over 200 countries.  I bet that you too are proud to be a Lion.  But let’s not stop with 1.4 million members.  Today I would like to introduce you to Mission 1.5.

     Mission 1.5 is a drive to build our membership to 1.5 million members worldwide in four years.  The next four years will be dedicated to reaching this historic goal.  But don’t we already have enough members if we’re the world’s largest service organization, you might ask.  And the answer to that question is that if we want to be able to serve an untold number of people in need, we need more members.  Simply put, more members means more service.  New members help make our clubs vibrant as they bring their new ideas, enthusiasm and their desire to serve.

     International President Patti Hill’s theme is “changing the world”.   In order to do this, Hill states that, “As humanitaritans we can change lives but we we have to do it together through service.  The more we grow, the more we can give to our communities.”

     So what can we do individually?  The challenge is out to us all of us as Lions.  During the next four years, Ask 1.  Uno, un, en, eins, ett, ichim jeden, moja, odin, wahed andyksi.  Throughout the world Lions will be asking 1.  Will everyone join that is asked?  Of course not.  But a significant number will.  So let’s support this initiative and make the commitment to ask someone who is likeminded and service oriented to join our great organization sometime in the next four years.

     As you read this you may be wondering, where did she get those logos?  I want to make sure that everyone is aware of a resource that it available to us all.  By going to the Lions International website we can download logos for our informational publications, advertising and articles in order to bring awareness of our service to our communities.  You’ll find not only our Lions logo but our Global Causes logos, Mission 1.5 logos, Peace Poster logo and many others. Go to: Lionsclubs.org  Resources  Marketing resources  Logos and Brand.

     I’m so excited.  For the first time in several years we are going to have a statewide service project. Lions International has dedicated the month of October as Vision Awareness Month is support of one of Lions Global Causes.  Our MD36 Global Service Team has organized a great statewide service project.  October 14th is “Lions Recycle for Sight Eyeglasses Collection Day”.  I’ll be out collecting glasses at the Trading Post at Crooked River Ranch.  I hope your club will join me in participating in this project.  For more information see the article on Page 6.  Thanks to Global Service Team Chair PCC Sharon Rollins and all the District GST’s for organizing the project. Just a little spoiler, there will be more than one statewide service project this year so stay tuned!

     All the best Oregon Lions as we head into the fall and the holiday season!                                                                                                                   

When We Change Our Communities We Change The World One Step At A Time

 “To be a successful team, you must bring all the parts together and play as one heartbeat.”  Darrell Royal

     The above quote is from the legendary University of Texas football coach Darrell Royal.  It is amazing to me that something said to a group of college kids on a football field in Austin, Texas over 50 years ago rings true to us as Lions today.  Royal often stressed team above self and with this quote he strove to instill this value in his young players.

     As Lions we too are a team.  As individuals we aren’t all the same.  We don’t think the same, we don’t feel the same, we don’t act the same.  And yet in Lions, a group of individuals comes together with a common heartbeat, a heartbeat of service.  Our common denominator being that we are a team of people desiring to serve.

     Our enthusiastic District Governor team is off to a great start.  Already they are visiting clubs, installing officers, inducting new members, planning and conducting trainings and participating in club service projects.  And, at this writing, we’re not even half way through August.  Hats off to you DGs Ed, Lynn, Steve and Pete.  I can hardly wait to see what you’ll accomplish this year!

     Clubs are conducting service projects and fundraisers, some traditional, some new, and are striving to serve their communities in the best way possible.  Hats off to all 2,809 Lions in MD36. 

     Some of our state committees have already met and others are gearing up to. You guide us in our service direction and provide for the smooth and consistent functioning of our Multiple District! Hats off to you committee chairs and committee members.

     Our Convention Committee has selected a site for the State Convention and planning will soon begin.  Hats off to the convention committee who will bring us together in the beautiful city of Bandon in May.

     Our new International President also believes in the importance of teamwork. Installed as the 104th president of Lions International, Dr. Patti Hill of Alberta, Canada took the reins of the world’s largest service organization on July 11th at the International Convention in Boston. Dr. Hill is a career educator and in this capacity has served as a teacher of the deaf, a school psychologist and as the principal of a specialty school for children with severe speech and language development challenges.  Hill strives to bring out the best in others.  “The purpose of my life on earth is to help others achieve their potential,” declares Hill.

     “Changing the World” is her presidential theme.  Collectively, when we change our communities we change the world one step at a time.  Well aware that change happens gradually, not all at once, Hill states that, “change happens through many small choices and with every act of kindness that we give to someone else”.

     Hill also believes that it is through teamwork we can effect change. Working collaboratively with community leaders, other service organizations and each other we are better able to solve the problems facing our communities.

     And last, but not least, mark your calendars for May 17th and 18th, 2024 for the State Convention in beautiful Bandon Oregon.  I know I’m mentioning this early, but if your calendar fills up like mine, it’s good to get it on there now.  Hope to see many of you in Bandon as well as at District Conventions throughout the state.

Wishing you the greatest Lions year ever,

CC Phyllis Carlin

What is your Superpower?

Give Your Best to Lions this Year

By Phyllis Carlin, Council Chairperson

Gudrun Yngvadottir took the reins of the world’s largest service organization at the Lions International Convention in July, 2018, becoming the first female president in the 101 year history of the organization. She was also our first president from Iceland. Gudrun became a Lion in 1992 and has held many offices and received numerous awards including our highest honor, the Ambassador of Goodwill. She is a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a biomedical research scientist, a university administrator and, to top it all off, a Lion.

I ran into her in a restroom at the International Convention the day before she was to be installed as our 101st president. We were alone, just the two of us there and I said to her, “You are going to do such a fantastic job.” She hugged me and thanked me, treating me like an old friend, not like one of the 700-plus unknown District Governors assembled at the convention for training. She spoke to me in my native tongue, not hers. And right there in the underbelly of the MGM Grand in Las Vegas at the end of a very, very long day, I learned the superpowers of Gudrun Yngvadottir—that being her ability to make you feel special and, most importantly, valued.

One month from now, five years after Lion Gudrun’s installation, we will install our second female president, Dr. Patti Hill from Alberta, Canada. Lion Patti is currently the president of a consulting firm with 30 years of experience as an educator and psychologist. In addition, she has championed the rights of youth who are deaf and/or blind. While her theme and goals have yet to be released, I will certainly share them with you when they are. As I haven’t heard her speak in person, I have yet to glean what her superpowers might be. But I have no doubt there are many.

This is my challenge to you, Lions of MD36, as we head into our new year of service: “Will you not give your best to Lions this year?” Each of you has your own unique set of “superpowers.” Will you not channel these energies and talents toward Lions and toward the greater good as we strive to serve our communities, districts and state? Much progress has been made, but we are still in a state of rebuilding and revitalizing our organization as Covid wanes. We need to come together in service as we continue this process. “Will you give your best to Lions this year?”

Speaking of giving your best, we had a committee that did just that last year. The Public Relations committee, led by Lion Carrie Bartley, wrote and procured a grant to purchase yard signs and bumper stickers for every Lion in MD36. The committee met by Zoom and “Got ‘er done” with the result being more visibility for our Multiple District. If you have yet to receive your yard sign or bumper sticker, please contact your district governor. A shout out to the fourteen Lions from around state who served on this committee.

Let’s follow their lead because none of us want Lions to be the “Best Kept Secret” anymore. Put the bumper sticker on your car and the sign in your yard. Write articles for your local paper. Start an Instagram or Facebook page and show, through your club’s great works, how proud you are to be a Lion.

I look forward to seeing you this year at club events, meetings and conventions and I wish you the best as you begin your new year of service this July. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me at the phone number or e-mail listed above.