So Far Apart … Yet So Similar in Service!

     Hello again Lions of 36G and the Multiple District as well. As I step into my fifth month as District Governor, I find myself traversing the expanse of our District, having visited nearly half of our vibrant clubs, spanning from Hood River to Jordan Valley.  And it has been a joy! There is truly some ‘PRIDE’ out there, whether it’s in the form of dedicated clubhouses and parks, those looking to build a clubhouse, and those that opt to meet at local establishments, supporting our local businesses.  I truly enjoy attending your club meetings and hearing about the variety of projects enriching our communities. It is always remarkable to hear about the fundraisers we have in common. And those that are unique to a club and very cherished by the respective communities.

     There is also the ‘behind the scenes’ work that goes on with many events -- coordinating venues, navigating legalities, and ensuring our dates don’t conflict with other local happenings. Then ‘hope’ that we get a good response, particularly as some projects re-emerge following the COVID pandemic.

     Then comes the ‘reality’ part some of our clubs are facing. We are aging out and with that comes the decision to give up an event to another organization or let it dissolve completely. Sometimes these decisions come from new laws or legal issues or reasons beyond our control and we just have to move on. But one way to keep that special event going is to recruit new members. Ask a friend, relative or neighbor!   We have a membership challenge underway in District 36G. The two clubs that excel in recruiting, by (1) percentage gained and (2) total individuals will win a free registration for the district convention! The details of our district’s convention are being finalized and it will be one you do not want to miss. Reserve April 5-6, 2024, and prepare for a memorable weekend! We encourage families to come join in the fun.

     If you’re curious about Lions Club on a broader scale, seize the opportunity to become a Zone Chair. At this level, you will see and hear more about Lions above the club level. The time commitment is minimal and the rewards can be great. Send me an email if you're interested or ask me when I visit your club.

‘Be Instrumental In Service’

Lion Pete Runnels

District Governor MD36-G

TRADITIONS, HERITAGE and FAMILY

     Well, it has been a busy month and also a time to recall many old traditions, think of the heritage within our clubs and family ties to carry on what are or may become new traditions today or into tomorrow. We just came off our biggest fund raiser of the year here at the Burns Lions Club…operation of our hamburger stand at the local fair and rodeo. The music was playing, we Lions were singing and a good time was had by all. Of course we didn’t miss “Cheeseburger in Paradise’ in tribute. The most famous item we sell at our stand is what has been infamously named ‘Lion Balls’. How proud would the Lions who have left us be, knowing we continue to the day to carry forward this whimsical sweet treat that has put smiles on faces of our youth, now grown adults and senior citizens without fail. How many unique things does your club do that have been carried on for years that has become a local tradition? Be proud of that, what you are doing now may become one of those 50+ year old traditions that will be inherited for future Lion’s use in your club?

     We are fortunate here to have had assistance from our local Boy Scout Troop in selling at the stand. We couldn’t do it without their assistance and our communities helping hands. This is a very big event for a small community and small club. The support of our community is evidenced year after year in our results. We can never say enough thank-yous to express our sheer gratitude.

     And family…How grateful are we to our families to allow us to be gone while we volunteer for our clubs! This year especially hit home for me as I was able to allow my 9 year old granddaughter to assist in the booth. Maybe a future Leo or Lion, yet the seed has been planted for future community service.

‘Be Instrumental In Service’

Lion Pete Runnels

District Governor MD36-G

The Year Begins In Earnest

     It was a heck of a convention! The Lions International Convention held in Boston did not disappoint.  The enthusiasm and exuberance were on full display.  A time when nationality didn’t matter and all came together to show that ‘We Care’ world-wide. The ‘Parade of Nations’ had every country dressed in traditional wear - it was flamboyant and a sight to see!  And it was ‘HOT’ walking that route that seemed to go on and on.

     The Leo’s from Oregon walked earlier than our Oregon contingent and they came back around and walked some with us. It was an honor to represent Oregon along with the rest of Oregon’s contingent.  In my previous article I mentioned family in Spain and would I meet someone … Well, no relatives but I did meet the Spanish contingent who knew of the area my family is from. They however were from the south of Spain and my family is more northern from the Basque region.  Even with broken communication we laughed and communicated like old friends!

     So now the year begins in earnest. I will be scheduling club visitations, carrying my message on to all. I touched on it last month a bit - all the extra stress now in our lives and how I like to deal with it through music. Anxiety, stress, pent up emotions … We all deal with it. The new name for stress syndrome or burn out is Adrenal Fatigue.  Let’s find ways to deal with it for the betterment of Lions everywhere.  If we take care of ourselves first, we have more to give to others for a great cause. The cause of course is what you do locally through your club activities.  And recruiting new members for the cause only helps reduce the pull on each and every one of us.

     MY challenge to you is for each of us to try and recruit just ‘one’ new member … just think of the extra helping hands and sharing of activities reducing your anxiety or stress of an upcoming project.  “In the jungle, the mighty jungle .. the Lion sleeps tonight ……”

‘Be Instrumental In Service’

Lion Pete Runnels

District Governor MD36-G

“BE INSTRUMENTAL IN SERVICE.” TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF SO YOU CAN HELP OTHERS.

Hello District 36G Lions,

     As I write my first article for the Oregon Lion’s Magazine, I am looking forward to the International Convention in Boston in July. It is such an honor and opportunity to have been elected the District Governor! What will it bring?  Who all will I meet?  What friendships will I make from other parts of the world?  Will I meet someone from the region in Spain where I still have relatives living in the same house as my grandfather .. .who, where, what, when?  There is a lot to look forward to …. But, will I not be so burned out that I miss the chance?

     You see, that is a concern for me and should be for all of us, so this is how I like to deal with it …. Turn on some music, sit back, relax, and give yourself some time to unwind.  We all need to do it; we all have a need to decompress.  Even if you think you don’t, you do!  There is so much going on in our lives today that has been added over the years through electronics, social media, etc. that we now have put ourselves on the go more than we ever have. Oh, how I wish it was just choosing from 3 channels on TV or dialing in the one radio station that we could get locally, or the only mail I have to check is in the original mailbox …  awe!

     The more we don’t take care of ourselves, the less we have to give to others through Lions.  “We Serve” becomes a bit more of a struggle. So please take care of the one Lion who can help take care of others – yourself!  Now, with music playing in the background … remember my theme this year … “Be Instrumental in Service.”

Relax and do good things,

Pete Runnels – DGE - District 36G

THIS JOURNEY WAS AMAZING & FUN TO BOOT!

     As my year as District Governor comes to a close, I am filled with immense excitement as I warmly welcome Pete Runnels of Burns, the incoming District Governor for District G. I have no doubt that he will excel in his new role and accomplish great things for our District.

     As we approach the end of the year, I am pleased to report that it looks like we are going to end the year with a positive number for membership.  Throughout my travels, I have witnessed numerous inspiring initiatives undertaken by our clubs, as they think innovatively to uplift their communities.  I am exceedingly proud of the dedication and efforts exhibited by each member in our clubs.

     I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you for entrusting me with the position of District Governor. This journey has been nothing short of amazing and fun to boot. Let's not forget my motto, "Lions Boot Up to Serve," and let us embrace the prospect of stepping outside our comfort zones.  I firmly believe that remarkable opportunities lie ahead for each and every one of you.

Yours in Lionism, Cheri Jackson DG 36-G

Being a Lion is Heartwarming & Fun!

     Get excited, Lions! The highly anticipated Multiple District at Seaside is just around the corner and I can't wait to see many of you there! We've already had an incredible time at the four District Conventions, and they were all wonderful.  I know District G had a blast at Wildhorse this year with a laid-back vibe that everyone enjoyed. We were fortunate to have the delightful presence of ID Ron Keller and his wife Kitty, and I hope they will make their way back to Oregon soon.

     As we move forward, our District is on an upward trajectory, and we have some exciting news to share. Pete Runnels from Burns has stepped up to be our District Governor for the upcoming year, and Betty Jane Bugbee will be our 1st Vice!  This is fantastic news for our District, and I have no doubt that they will both bring exceptional leadership qualities to the table.  While we are still looking for a 2nd Vice and a District Secretary, I know we will find some outstanding individuals to fill these roles.  If you are considering or even have the slightest thought of taking on one of these positions, please reach out to our leaders and let them know.  It's an incredibly rewarding experience to serve at the District level.

     Let's not forget that being a Lion is not only heartwarming, but it can also be a lot of fun!  So let's make the most of it and have a blast while we serve!

Yours in Lionism,

Cheri Jackson DG 36-G

WE HAVE LOTS TO BE PROUD OF

     As this issue goes to press most of the district conventions will be completed.  Sorry that DG Kerith Vance of District O had to re-schedule, but I am certain that convention will be great!   It has been fun traveling across the State and getting to know Lions from other districts and meeting with more clubs in District 36G.  We have such great people in Oregon, we have lots to be proud of and there are so many new ideas for service that have come forward.

     The yard signs and magnets have been a big hit and I can't wait to drive through our towns and see how we are getting the message of Lions out to our neighbors and communities.  I want to personally thank all the District Governors in Oregon and the other Lions that took the initiative and time to get the grant that brought these colorful signs to our towns.  They sure catch your eye as you are passing by.  I am certain it will get the community to ask questions and bring more members wanting to serve as do all our currents Lions.

     We still have the Multiple District Convention in Seaside in May.  I hope to see lots of you there enjoying our Coast!

Yours in Lionism,

Cheri Jackson DG 36G

Fresh New Ideas

Dear Lions,

     I am hoping the weather is finally showing some improvements in your area.  It is time to start that Spring cleaning and getting those "honey-do" lists completed.  It is time for that in our Clubs also.  Get business caught up, present those new ideas for ways to help our communities and think of fundraising ideas.  We have started inducting some new members and I hope they also come with some fresh new ideas.  It seems summer goes too fast and winter lasts too long in Eastern Oregon but we really do have 4 beautiful seasons.  Perfect for plenty of outdoor and indoor activities.

     I have met with a few more clubs that were willing to combine the clubs into one visitation which is so helpful with the cost of visitations.  They also got club visit credits so it was an extra win for them.  As the weather permits, I will get my visits in to the more outlying clubs.  I can't wait to see everyone!

     I’m looking forward to Spring.  The yard signs and car magnets are slowing getting delivered and I am anxious to get them to everyone.  They look so great being displayed around town!  If I haven't made it to your club you can also pick them up during convention March 31st and April 1st.  I have ordered sunshine and no wind for that weekend.  I hope to see you all there!

Your in Lionism,

Cheri Jackson

DG 36G

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

Dear Fellow Lions,

     As we move further into 2023 I am hoping you all are well and recovering from the Holidays.  The yard signs have arrived so we will begin distributing them to all our members as soon as possible so we can share our pride in being Lions.

     It is the Chinese New Year of the Rabbit but to me it will be the Year of the Lion!  I want you all to reflect on why you became a Lion and share that with others. Although we are one Lion family we are all different people and we all have our own reasons we joined a club that helps others and our communities. I am starting to hear from clubs that they are inducting some new members and I am so happy we have made it through the worst of the Pandemic and are ready to move ahead and join with others in service.

     I have a goal for 2023 that each Lion member give themselves a challenge to bring in at least one new member.  Let's show our enthusiasm to friends and folks we meet, proudly wear your Lion pins, anything to show you are part of a wonderful group of folks. Many will ask you what Lions do.  Explain that we care, we share and we serve. Greet new people moving into the community, take them information on Lions and help them step right in to feel like a part of their new community. Joining a Lions Club is a perfect way to make them feel like they are a part of something. If I had not become a Lion I would not have met what has become some of my dearest friends and my world has become larger.

     A big reminder that we still are needing members to step up into offices.  I personally helped the Lions for years but held back on joining. I am a great worker bee but not a leader. I had my arm twisted to join, yes we have it on film, and look what I am doing now. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, be brave, step up and help lead! You will have lots of help from others and there is great information on the Lions website. I have been able to travel to places I never would have seen had I not stepped up and agreed to broaden my sights from our little Eastern Oregon town.  So, as we prepare for conventions and Spring I want to wish you all the best and God Bless.

Yours in Lionism,

DG 36G Cheri Jackson 

We Are All Part Of A Big Lions Family

     As the New Year approaches I look forward to getting more clubs visited.  At each visit I get so inspired hearing of all the projects our clubs are accomplishing and how some clubs work together to get things done for their communities.

     I know we are all very busy with Holiday projects and of course we are all asked to encourage and bring in new members.  My push as District Governor is to remind all of you what a great membership we have and to make sure we are keeping our current members involved and inspired.

     Call each other, ask for a bit of help from members that are not attending meetings.  There is a reason they are not attending.  Keep them involved and feeling welcome and part of a team.  Remember we are all part of a big Lions family.

     I especially want to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and may 2023 be a better year for all of us.

Inspired to Strive

As we move into our new Lion’s year, I have started my club visits. As you know, I want to promote the use of technology for learning and understanding what you can do as a Lion. A duty of the District Governors is to help inspire our clubs and maybe bring together new members.

I did my first club visit in early September and got to help with vision screenings. I have to let you all know this is a very remote club and I am certain they feel they are operating on their own without a lot of visiting from other clubs. I was so impressed with this group and they truly inspired me! They have been making full use of technology applying for grants from many sources to build a community center for their area. They work with the schools and help with their functions, members run the local ambulance and they all stay busy helping out in any way they can to keep their community running. This club seems to be there for everyone in need and they are very important to the area. I am sure without the Lions the area would be in dire need, but this group of Lions in Jordan Valley just keeps helping. May we all be inspired to strive to show true Lionism as this club does!

Cheri Jackson

DG District 36G

Look For New Opportunities To Serve

Hey Team!

      We are off and running on our new Lions year.  I am hoping to make it an eventful year for all of us.   My first stop will be in Jordan Valley with many to follow.

     We all love the time spent with other Lions and get great satisfaction from helping others in our communities.  Keep up the enthusiasm, keep smiling and spread our goodwill to everyone in our communities.  Look for new opportunities to serve and don't be afraid to think a bit out of the box.   We do many things but can always find more places where we can help.

     Let's build our membership by showing others how they can join and help to enrich their lives and our communities.  Some may not be able to put on their boots and work but can bring in new fresh ideas.  Listen to all members as they all need to have a say and be heard for the team to flow like a well-oiled machine. 

     Lions are the best volunteers in the world and part of the best team in the world!  Keep your enthusiasm flowing!!!

Boot Up For Service

     As we enter our new year of 2022-2023 I am very excited about being your District Governor for 36G.  What an experience we had in Montreal at the Lions Clubs International Convention!   I feel that attending conventions boosts our spirits and reminds us why we are Lions.

     I am anxious to get started with club visits and meet new folks and see old friends.  This year our goal is to Boot Up For Service.  I love doing projects where we help our communities in work boots, mud boots or whatever.  But, this year I also hope to encourage use of our technology also.  (reboot the system, etc.)

     There is so much training available free through LCI which can answer many questions our members have.  We also can make better use of social media to get our faces in the community.  Maybe we can encourage younger members and give them a project of sharing our service to others.

     I get asked often "What do Lions do?".   Why doesn't the public know?  Because we are not getting our message out there enough!   Let's have some fun taking lots of photos and sharing them with the public through various types of media.  This year let's ROAR our message across the District!

Yours in Lionism, DG Cheri Jackson, 36-G

We Are Lions, Hear Us ROAR!

     Here’s my last column:  What an amazing year.  I have learned so much about people.  People are stronger, braver and kinder than before the pandemic.  We have found better ways to accomplish what needs to be done.  My hat goes off to Lions everywhere.  You found ways to help others without being unsafe.

     Now everyone seems to be back in full swing with projects and drives as before.  My hope is that Lions keep headed in the direction of progress and technology to reach our goals of service.

     Thank you to each club that has let me visit.  You all have treated me with much respect.

     I plan to keep busy with my club, and to offer my help to anyone who needs me to.

Remember “We are Lions.  Hear us ROAR”.

DG Kathy Oliver

Keep Up The Good Work

     Lions hunt for food to eat.  Lions roar to be heard as king of the jungle.  Lions rest, sleep and hunt again.  Lions (people) hunt for people in need.  Then hunt for a way to fill that need.  Lions (people) roar to be heard alright but for a good cause or a good deed done.  Lions (people) don’t live quite as simply as a lion.  However, I believe we share a somewhat similar drive to accomplish as they do.

     In visiting clubs I am amazed at how much is being done.  Each club has their own ideas and ways of how each project or need will be fulfilled.  You all are great Lions. Keep up the good work.

     Two months and my term will be over.  First Vice District Governor Cheri Jackson will then be your leader.  She will do a fantastic job I’m sure.  Hopefully there will be no catastrophic things happening to keep her from doing all the visits in person.  That way she can see how you work as a club.

     I must also add that I have met some really neat people this year and hope to keep up these new friendships.

     BE A LION.  BE GRRRRRRREAT!

DG Kathy Oliver

Be Seen Helping, Be Seen Working, Be Seen Caring

     By the time you read this the 36-G convention will be long behind me.  It went really well without any problems or issues.  The weather was pleasant, no snow fell nor did any rain.  People traveled safe. Our ID Larry Edwards and wife Susan were so very nice.  He was full of questions and answers. They seemed very impressed with the amount of projects each club in District G was doing.  He took lots of notes to take home to his club.

     One of the fun activities at our convention was PCC Steve Oliver selling his hair. Well ok he didn’t really “sell” his hair, but actually let a visually impaired Lion shave his head for money to go to childhood cancer research. Thank you Lions PCC Steve and PDG Mary Lee.

     I also want to thank the Baker City Lions Club for their help.  And for the beautiful flower arrangements.

     Spring is just around the corner, which means more outdoor activities.  Use this time to do all you can.  Be seen helping, be seen working, be seen caring, and be seen doing what we do as Lions.

That’s What We Are All About

     What can I say “time flies when you’re having fun.”  Now, I cannot believe we are less than five months from the finish line.

     Being a Lion is one of my favorite things I have done in my lifetime. Knowing that you have helped a fellow human being along their way (perhaps through a difficult time) is the most rewarding feeling.

     Remembering helping with vision testing grade schoolers and seeing the kids who really needed glasses was such an eye-opener for me. That’s when I knew I’d always be a Lion just so I could help kids see. “That’s what we are all about”.

     Even though there seems to be some issues of being able to be in schools and testing, don’t give up. Counties are opening back up slowly and soon we will be back to the “old” schedule.

     I also want to give an “ATTABOY” to the clubs in District G for the new members they have brought into the Lions. Thank you for your work and do not slow down. This means that there are more members for more projects and we can help more and more people in need.

     I am so excited that Spring is right around the corner. Don’t forget March 13th Daylight Saving’s Time begins. That means we have an extra hour of daylight to do an extra hour of help with projects for the Lions.

Ask Someone To Join And To Serve

     Convention time is very near.  Please support your District Governor by going to your district’s convention.  We need you there.  Some of the things you can learn would be: solving difficult situations, getting new ideas for new projects, new friendships, and just plain having some fun.  Come enjoy and learn.

     I’m so happy to see New Members, at the club meetings I’ve gone to.  At a visitation yesterday, while enjoying our meal, a young man walked in and asked if this was the Lions Club.  After assuring him that it was he said he wanted to join so he could help serve the community.  No one had asked him -- he just knew about what Lions do.  I know it’s not always that easy, but sometimes it is.

     Be thinking of ways to invite new possible members.  Remember being seen in public doing needed services, wearing our vests is a big plus for encouraging new members.  Our opportunities are many if we remember who we are and what we do.

     I also want to mention that it is not just about how much money you can raise -- it’s also how we help with the needs of the community.  We should also consider helping each other.  After all we are not in competition with each other.  We all have the same goals, which is SERVICE.

     Please keep in mind to ask someone to join, and to serve, .. how easy is that.

District Governor Kathy Oliver

There Is Always Someone Who Needs Help

     Happy New Year to all!

     I hope your Christmas was wonderful.  Lions have the perfect projects at Christmas. Gift shopping for families needing help and food boxes.  Some clubs actually take the whole family shopping, so that involves 4 or 5 Lions.  What a great time that is.

     So a new year to start fresh is 2022 -- what will it have in store for us?  Can we conquer COVID?   Will kids get to stay “in” school?  Will people still be working from home?   Will prices keep going up?   Whatever happens we will still be Lions serving our communities, still helping with disaster relief, still working to keep others fed, clothed and well.

     Things may not be the same as they used to be, but one thing never changes and that is, there is always someone who needs help.  Winter in our part of Oregon is maybe not the easiest time to recruit members but don’t give up.  For instance, don’t give up on someone the first time they say NO.  Maybe they are just needing to be asked twice.  Be seen when you’re out doing service in the community, show people you are having a good time helping.  Sometimes when they see you having too much fun, they want to have too much fun also.  Attend meeting as much as you can.  The officers need your support and you need to know what’s going on.  Don’t be afraid to volunteer, you’ll have fun.  Help with committees that are putting together new projects. “Do all you can to be all you can.”

     May this be your best year ever.

DG Kathy Oliver

Everyone Wants To Help

     With the holidays upon us we certainly can become too busy.  I find that an occasional time out is necessary to check what is important to do next.  Sometimes a checklist is a good way to keep on track.  And sometimes simply to delegate is the answer.

     Everyone wants to help.  Forming small committees can be an answer to reaching some goals.  This of course is about Lions Clubs.  This time of year can tend to be stressful and give people that bah-humbug attitude.  So if more members pitch in and help your holiday projects can be enjoyable.  Please remember that the food banks need help, Christmas shopping needs doing, trees need set up, and parades need to be watched.  Find what you can do to help.

     Also I would like to say GOOD JOB Clubs who have been getting new members.  This is what we are striving for right now.  Set goals to reach for spring.  See who can gain 10 new members by then.  Not only gain them but plug them in to a project so they too can feel the joy of helping others.

     I did want to mention too that you should look into leadership.  Being a leader in Lions is rewarding and very satisfying.  There is all kinds of training (free) online for those who are interested.  Don’t be afraid to try.  So in closing, volunteer when you can, enjoy the holiday season and try leadership.

     Looking to the future.  DG Kathy Oliver