Lions District 36R Governor’s June 2026 message

Greetings Fellow Lions of Oregon & Northern California,

As we approach the close of this Lions year, we have an opportunity to reflect not only on what we have accomplished—but on what we will leave behind. Each project completed, each life touched, and each hand extended in service contributes to something far greater than a single year of leadership. It builds a Lion Legacy.

A legacy is not measured by titles or timelines—it is measured by impact and continuity. The true strength of our districts and clubs lies in our ability to inspire others to carry our mission forward and create opportunities that welcome the next generation of Lions. That is why inviting new members into our pride is one of the most important acts of service we can perform.

Across Oregon and Northern California, our communities are filled with individuals who are searching for purpose, connection, and meaningful ways to give back. Lions Clubs offer all three—but only if we extend the invitation. Membership growth is not just a goal; it is a responsibility. Every new Lion brings fresh energy, new ideas, and expanded capacity to serve.

Legacy also means sustainability. Strong clubs don’t just serve—they develop leaders, mentor new members, and adapt to community needs. Whether through forming new clubs or strengthening partnerships, we ensure that Lionism continues to thrive well beyond our individual contributions.

Let us finish this year with intention. Reach out to one potential member. Share your Lions story. Invite someone to serve alongside you. Small actions today will define the strength of Lions tomorrow.

Thank you for your dedication, your compassion, and your commitment to service.

This year has been my honor & pleasure to serve as District Governor.

District 36R Governor Lion Karen Norton

Lions District 36R Governor’s May 2026 Message

Fellow Lions of Oregon,

As we welcome May, we are reminded that spring is not only a season of renewal in nature, but also an opportunity for growth within our Lions family. This month, let us reflect on the power of membership—not just in numbers, but in impact, connection, and the legacy we are building together.

Every Lion who joins our organization brings new energy, fresh ideas, and a unique passion for service. Membership is more than filling seats at meetings; it is about expanding our reach into communities, strengthening our ability to serve, and ensuring that the spirit of Lionism continues for generations to come. Each new member represents a future leader, a helping hand, and a storyteller who will carry forward the mission we all share.

But as we focus on growth, we must also think about legacy. What will be said about the Lions of Oregon years from now? Legacy is built through consistent acts of kindness, meaningful service projects, and the relationships we foster along the way. It lives in the lives we change—the child who learns to read, the family who receives support in a time of need, the community that grows stronger because Lions showed up.

Creating a lasting legacy starts with each of us. Invite someone to experience the joy of service. Mentor a new member. Share your story and why you became a Lion. These simple actions multiply our impact and ensure that our clubs remain vibrant and sustainable.

Let us also remember that legacy is not just about what we do, but how we do it—with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to making the world a better place.

This May, I encourage each club to set a goal: welcome at least one new member and engage them in a meaningful service experience. Together, we can grow stronger, serve better, and leave a legacy that will inspire future Lions across Oregon.

Thank you for your dedication and your heart for service.

District 36R Governor Lion Karen Norton

District 36R Governor April 2026 Message

Greetings Lions!

Every Lion who serves leaves a mark. The question before us is simple: What legacy will we leave?

When we speak of a Lions Legacy, we are not speaking only of years served or titles held. We are speaking of lives touched, communities strengthened, and futures protected. Our legacy is written in the quiet moments of service — in the child who sees clearly for the first time, in the family supported during hardship, and in the communities that thrive because Lions chose to act. Each act of kindness builds upon the foundation laid by those before us — and prepares the path for those who will follow.

Our next week of service, focused on the Environment, will be April 18th to the 26th. Lions around the world will unite in action to protect and preserve our planet. Environmental service is not just a project — it is a promise. A promise that we will be good stewards of the Earth for future generations.

The environment is one of our global causes, and it provides a powerful opportunity to engage families, youth, and new volunteers in meaningful service. It is also a visible reminder that Lions are committed not only to today’s needs — but to tomorrow’s wellbeing.

Let’s build a Legacy through action and plan at least one environmental service project. Think about engaging Leos and youth to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders. Invite community partners to serve alongside us — including libraries, schools, and civic groups. Share your impact through photos, stories, and service reporting.

Let us make this International Week of Service a defining moment — one that reflects our dedication to sustainability, community partnership, and servant leadership.

Thank you for your leadership, your compassion, and your unwavering commitment to service. Together, we are not only serving — we are shaping the future.

In Service,

District 36R Governor, Karen Norton

District 36R Governor March 2026 Letter

Greetings Lions!

As I write this District 36R letter my Pride is with my District. Our convention was this past weekend and I believe, based on the many responses I received, that it was a ROARING success! My intention was to have a fun, informative event. PIP Dr Hill and her husband Lion Greg Holmes were such a special addition. Her speeches were not only inspiring, but informative. I think we all felt as honored as I did, to have such a special International Guest.

In addition to the convention, our 3rd District Cabinet meeting was held Friday. PIP Patti attended and added many helpful comments. After the meeting we took PIP Patti and Lion Greg on a tour of Ronald McDonald Heartfelt House, who received an LCIF Grant to help it get started 7 years ago. After lunch we made 77 Valentines for Heartfelt House and had a huge eyeglass sorting, which Lion Tracy Brown from Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation coordinated. Tracy then took boxes & boxes of glasses back to Portland.

Spring is just around the corner, and it gives me added incentive to visit clubs and make plans to start new clubs and find inventive ways to get and retain new members. I would also like to find ways to rebuild existing clubs, whose membership has decreased, but still find ways to

I am still looking for a Vice District Governor. However, if I do not find a Lion to step up, I will request after the start of the new Lion year, that I have a second term as District Governor.  Since I have said from the start of my term that one year is not enough time to implement all my goals, I am hoping I will have the second year to get even more done.

There are many great Lions in Oregon and my District and I have learned over the last seven months that these Lions truly demonstrate that Lions help Lions and they will not let you fail. Thank you, one and all. I feel blessed.

I hope that you, as a Lion, take every opportunity to invite friends and family to service projects. I believe that the way to get new MEMBERS is to show them what we do best, WE SERVE. Let them learn how rewarding it is to give back to the communities where we live and get to know you, as a person and a dedicated Lion.

Yours in Service,

District 36R Governor Karen Norton

District 36R Governor’s Letter for February 2026

Greetings from District 36R. It has been an honor and privilege to be the 36R District Governor for the last 7 months. I look forward to all the possibilities for the remainder of my term and beyond.

I am certainly looking forward to the start of Convention season with District 36R’s Convention on Feb. 7, 2026. As you probably know our International guest will be Past International President (PIP) Patti Hill. You can register on District 36-R Website, under the Convention tab. I hope to see you there and at our other 3 District Conventions, including the Multiple District Convention in Springfield at the Holiday Inn Express from May 29th to the 30th. It’s such a fun time of the year, when we renew Lions friendships and meet new Lions.

I spent January promoting the 36R Convention by visiting 7 different clubs. What a treat! I always enjoy getting to see & talk to fellow Lions & find out what their clubs are doing to give back to their communities.

February is Lions International Childhood Cancer Awareness month. If your clubs are able, I suggest you connect with Candlelighters and find a way to donate or volunteer to help. At the District R Cabinet meeting on February 6th, we will be making Valentines for Ronald McDonald’s Heartfelt House, to bring a smile to kids and families affected by health difficulties, such as Childhood Cancer.

I have been actively trying to find a Vice District Governor. Since my motto for my year as District Governor is “Leave a Lion Legacy”, I am doing everything I can to make that happen. I’m always open to suggestions.

My plans for the rest of this Lions year include working with the District Marketing Committee to promote Lions. I also have plans to have a Service Carnival before the end of this Lions year. Plus, I have not forgotten Lions Quest. I believe it is one of the many avenues we have to collaborate with our schools.  Of course, I hope all this leads to new clubs & new members.

There are many inspirational Lion’s quotes, but one I truly believe is: “Every life we touch becomes part of our legacy”.

Thank you for all you do to exemplify our motto, WE SERVE.

District 36R Governor Lion Karen

District 36R Governor’s Letter for January 2026

 Happy New Year to you, your club and your family.

As of January 1, 2026, I will have been District 36R Governor for 6 months. I have very much enjoyed meeting so many great Lions and finding out what makes your clubs special. I am actively searching for our next District Governor.  Thank you for helping me in my quest to find the right Lion to carry on our District.

I am working on adding new clubs. If you are interested in helping to form a new club, please contact me. We are growing as a District, but it’s important to recognize where a new club may be needed.

Convention season starts with District 36R’s Convention on Feb. 7, 2026. Our International Guest will be PIP Patti Hill. She is the second woman ever to become International President.

My plan is to have a roll call at the convention of clubs present. For the most ROARS per club, there will be a prize. The District Cabinet meeting will be from 9 am to noon on Friday Feb. 6th. All Lions are invited. We will have an information table on Friday afternoon with Lion Dave Nielson there to answer your Portal & general Lion’s questions. In the evening there will be a Meet & Greet with PIP Lion Patti. Please register for both the Convention and the Meet & Greet (limited seating is available) on the Lions District 36R Website. Don’t forget to encourage your new members to attend. As in most conventions, there will be a gathering of new Lion members, prior to the start time of the convention, with PIP Lion Patti. Also, consider entering a basket for the basket raffle, reserving a table to showcase all your club does and/or getting as many of your club members to attend the Convention & ROAR for their club.  The theme is Leave a Lion Legacy.

Our District is also gearing up for the 2nd Week of Service, which will focus on HUNGER, from January 3rd through the 11th. Since we are now entering the toughest part of the year for food need, less people are donating and fewer people are volunteering to help, so the need is great. Now is the time for Lions to step up. The challenge will be called the Winter Hunger Relief Service Challenge, and it will run from Jan. 3rd to Feb. 7th. Look for details on our Website.

Thank you for all you do to exemplify our motto, WE SERVE.

District 36R Governor Lion Karen

District 36R Governor’s Report for December 2025

 As the holidays approach, I hope each Lion takes time to celebrate being a Lion. I also wish you a great holiday season with family and friends. It’s the time of the year for giving and giving back to the community where you live. Consider a donation to LCIF. They empower Lions to tackle urgent humanitarian needs worldwide. Through its grant programs, donations help fund projects in all of our global causes.

By the end of November, I visited all 31 clubs in my District, plus participated in quite a few club events. Each visit reminds me of how diverse, yet together we are. We all want to Serve or we wouldn’t be Lions.

For those of you that have not visited our District Website, I urge you to do so. Google Lions District 36R. The Information page has many helpful tools including the Constitution & By-Laws and guidelines for the Club Excellence Award. Also check out the Calendar page for events that your club might copy.

Guiding Lion training was on Nov .8th. Over 17 Lions from all 4 Oregon Districts are now certified as Guiding Lions. That means our State has more resources to help with new or struggling clubs. I urge you to reach out to your District Governor, if you think your club would benefit from help or if you want to start a new club.

I am working on adding new clubs. One of the ways to do that is having a Service Carnival. If anyone is interested in helping, please let me know. There is a sign-up on the District Website, under Contact Forms. A Service carnival is a way to bring together clubs & the various entities that club’s support, in a way that highlights Lions. To me, it’s the ultimate way to advertise what we do.

At the District 36R’s Convention on Feb. 7, 2026, our International Guest will be PIP Patti Hill. She is the second woman ever to become International President. Convention planning is underway for both the District & Multi District conventions (which is May 29th & 30th, 2026). Our MD36 International Guest will be PIP Doug Alexander. Plan to attend these great Lions events. You won’t regret it.

As the New Year approaches, I am compelled to end with a quote from Helen Keller. “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched — they must be felt with the heart.”

In Service & Friendship,

District 36R Governor Karen Norton

Fall 2025 District 36R Governor message

I have spent a lot of hours driving around the state of Oregon visiting clubs in my District and am always amazed at the beauty of our State. By the end of November, I will have visited all 31 clubs. What an inspiring experience it has been. My adventures, along with a lot of really good Lions information, can be found on our Lions District 36R website.

For Lions first Week of Service, Oct. 4-12th, (which focused on Mental Health & Well Being), District IT Chair Lion Dave Nielson & I arranged an online meeting on Oct. 9th with Dr Stacy Nielson with the Eugene VA. Her focus was on the basics of mental health.

District 36R is presenting a Guiding Lions training & certification on Nov. 8th from 9 am to 2 pm at the Tangent Training Center. You can register on our website. Guiding Lions are such an important factor in helping existing clubs that may be struggling, as well as helping new clubs start off with the information they need to succeed. I urge any Lion who wants to improve themselves in their leadership skills to become a Guiding Lion.

My #1 focus is to get a Vice District Governor. My #2 focus is marketing Lions Clubs. This will be done in a variety of ways including radio ads, Facebook ads, billboards & participating in fun activities like a Service Carnival that I have planned for late February or March 2026.

Another goal is to increase attendance in Conventions. District R’s is Feb. 7, 2026 and MD 36’s convention is May 29-30th. Both are in Springfield, OR. Please save the date on your calendars and prepare to have fun, informative conventions.

Thank you for all you do & let’s always celebrate Lions & Leave a Lions Legacy

District 36R Governor Karen

Greetings Lions of Oregon & Northern California!

My motto “Leave a Lion Legacy” is alive & well in Lions all over our District!

Kids are back in school. I hope you are all ready for Vision Screening season to begin. If you have never been involved in Vision Screening, give it a try. A lot of kids do not know they have a problem until they put on a pair of new prescribed glasses and realize all the things they have been missing. The stories are heartwarming.

I also hope you realize how important it is for all Lions Clubs to be active in our schools. Whether it’s the Peace Poster Contest or Flags for 1st Graders or reviving Lions Quest and of course, Vision Screening. Youth represent our future and any positive interaction leaves a lasting impression on not only kids, but their parents & teachers. Remember to take event flyers and/or brochures to the screenings. Use any opportunity to let folks know how great Lions are & the good they do in our communities

My team is busy working on getting new clubs. Four Lions from our District entered a Chili Cook off at the Veneta Harvest Festival on September 13th. The idea was to have a good time competing and a fun time getting to know potential Lions from Veneta. We just want to spread the word about all the good that Lions do to give back to our communities and inspire them to start a new club.

I have visited over half the clubs in my District. My goal is to visit each of them at least twice in my Lion year. I learn so much & try to find ways to help each one of them.

It seems like a long time away, but I hope you will consider attending the District 36R convention. It will be at the Holiday Inn Express in Springfield. The 1-day convention will be on February 7, 2026 and the District 36R Cabinet meeting will be February 6th. I invite you all to attend and have fun celebrating our successes. It’s just another way to meet other Lions & find out what makes each club a success, in their own way.

Yours in Lionism,

District 36R Governor Lion Karen

Greetings to all Oregon Lions!

I have been having fun adventures starting my Governor year, by meeting as many Lions in District R, as possible. It’s heartwarming to hear about all the different service activities that our District participates in. I hope that you are following my adventures via the pictures on our Lions District 36R website. It’s on the Governor’s page. Be proud that we are the only District in the State with a website, which is awesome, thanks to Lion David Nielson!

My theme is “Leave A Lions Legacy” and I plan to work hard to help each club in our District lead by example.

The 1st District Cabinet meeting is on August 23rd from 10 am to 1 pm. Please register on our website. The location is the Central Electrical Learning Center, 33309 99E, Tangent, OR. One of my goals this year will be to have a Service project at each Cabinet meeting. I also plan on initiating a club Roll Call at this meeting. The club that ROARS the loudest, will receive a door prize. Please plan to attend & learn about District business & have fun!

I am actively working on my District goals for the year. They include marketing via radio ads, getting every club in our District to contribute to LCIF & to know why it’s important, and to see more participation at our Conventions. The District R (Feb. 7, 2026) and Multiple District 36 Convention (May 29-30, 2026) will both be at the Holiday Inn Express, in Springfield, right off the freeway. I need your help to make these Conventions memorable. I have ideas for speakers, but I welcome your thoughts. Participation will help strengthen our District Pride. Let’s set an example & have a record number of attendees. Plus, I plan to do a club roll call & see who can ROAR the loudest!

Another goal is to Leave that Legacy by starting new clubs & increasing membership. I hope you will be able to attend any of these meetings and learn how.

Other than going to many club visitations, which are posted on our website, I had the pleasure of attending a Mission 1.5 summit in Las Vegas from June 27-29th. It was an in-person, interactive focus on goals & how to accomplish them with District Governor Elects & their Global Membership Chairs, from around the world. My chair is Past Council Chair & OLSHF Trustee, Lion Lynn Coon.

From July 12th to the 18th, I had the privilege of attending the Lions International Convention in Orlando, FL. Meeting Lions from all over the world and seeing their national attire, was amazing. It was an honor to help carry our MD36 banner in the Parade of Nations with my fellow DGE’s from Oregon. The best part was being inducted as your District Governor with nearly 1000 other District Governor Elects on July 17, 2025. The picture on our website shows that happening.

Always remember: “We Serve because We Care”

Yours in Service, District R Governor, Lion Karen Norton

To the Great Lions of District 36R (R stands for ROAR

To the Great Lions of District 36R (R stands for ROAR),

I am honored to serve as your District Governor for 2025-26. Together, we have the opportunity to make a significant impact in our communities through our shared commitment to service and leadership. After all, our motto is WE SERVE. My motto for 2025-26 is “LEAVE A LIONS LEGACY”. You might ask, how? Please keep reading & find out!

During my year as District Governor, I plan to focus on two critical global causes: Youth and Disaster Preparedness. By empowering young people and preparing for emergencies, we can create a safer and more resilient community.

My GAT (Global Action) team & I, including Zone Chairs, will increase our visibility through radio advertisements, partially funded by a grant from the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF). This initiative aims to raise awareness about our causes and attract new members, which of course, brings new ideas.

You will have a chance to ask me questions in person. My visitation schedule, which includes visits to all 32 clubs before the end of September 2025, is posted on our District website, under Governor’s Page. There is a lot of information on our website, https://e-district.org/sites/district_36_r/page-11.php, including a Calendar to post your club events.

I am excited to support a new service project focused on drying unused food. With our District Disaster Preparedness Committee, an LCIF grant will be applied for. Plans are in the works. This initiative will not only reduce waste but also provide essential resources. Be on the lookout for details and how you & your club can help.

We will offer numerous opportunities for personal growth and leadership development. By investing in ourselves, we can better serve our communities and inspire others to join our mission.

I invite each club to actively participate in these initiatives and share your ideas and feedback. Together, we can achieve our goals and make a lasting difference. We can

LEAVE A LION’S LEGACY

Thank you for your dedication and service. I look forward to working with each of you to make this year a success.

Yours in Service,

Lion Karen Norton

2025-26 District 36R District Governor

as I reflect on our journey together, I see how far we’ve come as a district and as Lions

As I write this final column as your District Governor, the words “Forward! Upward! Onward!” resonate deeply with me. These words have been a guiding light throughout my term, and as I reflect on our journey together, I see how far we’ve come as a district and as Lions.  

I visited 31 of the 32 clubs in the District, and it has been an extraordinary honor to serve this district—an incredible collection of passionate, dedicated individuals who share a common purpose: to serve. Over the years, we have faced challenges, celebrated victories, and worked tirelessly to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. From the smallest acts of kindness to the most significant projects we’ve undertaken, each has been a testament to the power of unity and service.

When I stepped into this role (for the second time), I was full of anticipation and excitement. What I’ve found throughout my time as District Governor has been far more profound: a deep sense of pride in this community and what we accomplish together. Every event, every service project, every interaction with a fellow Lion has reminded me that our strength lies in the collective effort we put forth.

Together, we have made strides in supporting our local communities, strengthening our clubs, and leading with compassion and integrity. We’ve grown as a district and built a foundation to carry us into the future. While my time as your District Governor is coming to an end, I know the legacy of service and dedication will continue to grow.

As I pass the torch to the next leader of our district, DGE Karen Norton, I am filled with optimism and excitement. Much work is yet to be done, and the future is bright for District 36-R. We are stronger than ever before, and our mission will continue to guide us forward, upward, onward.

To every Lion who has served alongside me, to every club that has supported our mission, and to all those who have volunteered their time and energy, I offer my heartfelt gratitude. It has been a privilege to serve you, and I know that the great work we’ve done together will inspire others to follow in our footsteps.

Thank you for the opportunity to lead this incredible district. As we look to the future, let us remember that the path we take is one we walk together, always moving forward, upward, and onward.

With gratitude and Lions pride,
District Governor Linda Stent
District 36-R

Reflecting On the Significance of These Elections and The Processes That Uphold the Integrity and Effectiveness of Our Service Organization

As Lions Clubs worldwide gear up for our annual officer elections, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the significance of these elections and the processes that uphold the integrity and effectiveness of our service organization.

Officer elections are more than just a procedural formality; they are the lifeblood of our clubs, ensuring that leadership is both dynamic and committed. Elected officers steer a club's direction, uphold its values, and drive initiatives that impact communities globally. A transparent and structured election process fosters trust, encourages active participation, and ensures that a club's mission remains at the forefront of all endeavors.

Many Lions Clubs adhere to a general framework for elections:

·        Nominating Committee Formation: The club president appoints a nominating committee that is responsible for identifying candidates for various officer positions, ensuring they meet the qualifications set forth by Lions Clubs International.

·        Nomination Meeting: Held in conjunction with a regular membership meeting, the nomination meeting allows the nominating committee to present its slate of candidates. Members have the opportunity to nominate additional candidates from the floor.

·        Election Meeting: Following the nomination meeting, the election is conducted. Members vote on the proposed slate of candidates by secret ballot. A majority vote is required for a candidate to assume office.

·        Term Commencement: Elected officers usually assume their roles at the start of the Lions fiscal year, which begins on July 1. Election results should be reported to LCI as soon as possible.

·        Training: Offers orientation and training for incoming officers to equip them with the knowledge and tools needed for effective leadership.  

Training will be held on June 14  at the Junction City Moose Lodge, 9-1.

The strength of your Lions Club lies in its leadership and the collective commitment of your members. By adhering to structured election processes and embracing best practices, it is ensured that your club remains vibrant, effective, and true to the core values of Lions Clubs International. As we are currently in this election season, let's prioritize transparency, engagement, and continuity, paving the way for another year of impactful service and community betterment.

-- DG Linda Stent

Leadership is the Key

"Leadership is not a popularity contest; it's about leaving your ego at the door" -- Robin S. Sharma.

 We’re already in the third quarter of this Lions year. A big-ticket item should now be club elections for president, vice president, director, secretary, treasurer, Lion Tamer, and Tail Twister.

 District 36-R has achieved some amazing successes this year, particularly in membership and service. While the current officers have accomplished these, one area that needs our focus is leadership.

 Clubs are encouraged to elect new officers each year instead of retaining the same individuals year after year. Fresh ideas should always be welcome. When a club member has a new idea but is hesitant (for whatever reason) to voice it during a meeting for fear of being dismissed by officers, it's time to consider bringing in new leaders who would embrace new concepts.

 LCI tracks the number of clubs that consistently have the same officers. While this may not be entirely accurate, it appears that way when a club fails to report its election results to LCI. This can be done easily on the Portal. If you are experiencing issues with the Portal, please contact Cabinet Secretary Diane Bash for assistance. She is our District go-to person for Portal support.

 Officer training will take place in the upcoming quarter. All newly elected officers should attend to gain insight into their roles and participate in the Q&A discussion. More details regarding the time and location will be provided shortly.

 Leadership is not about a title or designation. It's about impact, influence, and inspiration. Impact involves achieving results, while influence is about spreading your enthusiasm for your goals. You are tasked with inspiring club members and your community.

We have heard that Lions are often the best-kept secret in a community.  Let’s change that!  I’m challenging new officers to make that a goal!  Service projects are the way to do it!  Be creative! Ask the GST for ideas!

First AI Experience

I have a confession:  This is my first AI experience.  This column was written by AI after telling a Lion from Washington State about our convention.  I have to say, AI certainly puts a positive spin on things.  This was written before the actual convention, so I’m hoping we lived up to it!

District 36R Annual Convention Brings

Lions Together for Service and Inspiration

 On February 8th, Lions from across District 36R gathered at the OSU Alumni Center in Corvallis, Oregon, for the highly anticipated annual convention. With nearly 100 Lions in attendance, the event was a tremendous success, showcasing the district’s commitment to service, collaboration, and growth.

 International Director Anthony Paradiso of Lions Clubs International honored the convention with his presence, delivering an inspiring keynote address. His words motivated attendees to continue their impactful work in their communities and emphasized the global reach of Lions’ service.

 District Governor Linda Stent expressed her delight at the event’s success, noting the high energy and enthusiasm of all who attended. “It’s wonderful to see so many Lions coming together to share ideas and celebrate our achievements,” she said.

 The convention highlighted several vital programs that are making a difference in the district, including the ROAR Hearing Program, Disaster Preparedness initiatives, and the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Program. These presentations reminded Lions of the importance of addressing diverse community needs and expanding their service efforts.

 A highlight of the day was the Peace Poster Contest, which showcased the creativity and vision of young artists from the region. With 16 outstanding entries, the contest underscored the importance of fostering peace and understanding in today’s world.

 The District 36R Annual Convention was not only an opportunity to celebrate past successes but also a chance to look forward to new possibilities. With inspired hearts and fresh ideas, Lions in the district are poised to continue their mission of making a difference in their communities and beyond.

 Thank you to all who attended and contributed to this memorable event. Together, we are Lions, and together, we serve!

“Forward! Upward! Onward!”

I ran across this article a couple of years ago and really liked it.  The more that I read it, the more I recognize how well it expresses my motto of “Forward!  Upward!  Onward!”

 The Lions of Today

 We, the Lions, to continue the proud tradition of Lionism in our

community, our nation, and our world, must become

 THE LIONS OF TODAY

 As THE LIONS OF TODAY, we must...

◦              Be proud of our past, but NOT STUCK IN THE PAST.

◦              EMBRACE CHANGE.

◦              Ask our community "How can WE SERVE you?"

◦              Have a positive "CAN-DO" attitude.

◦              Show KINDNESS to everyone we meet.

◦              PUSH FORWARD in spite of nay-sayers.

◦              LEAD BY EXAMPLE.

◦              CARE about our community, our nation, and our world.

◦              Take the initiative.

◦              ENCOURAGE, NURTURE and LISTEN to our fellow Lions.

◦              REACH OUT to people from all walks of life.


TOGETHER WE CAN and TOGETHER WE WILL


become THE LIONS OF TODAY!

                                               By Lion Steve Williams

                                               Past District 18-I Governor

                                         Forsyth County Lions Club, Cumming, Georgia USA

Lions should NOT be territorial

I admit I spend a lot of time on my computer.  I’m reading emails from various clubs announcing upcoming service projects and fundraisers.  I’m reading various club and district websites. 

 I love what I’m seeing.  Lots of activities but also the fact that they’re being shared with everyone in the district.  Sharing can be helpful in many ways.  Clubs may need help with a project (vision screening, Flags for First Graders, chicken barbeques, Sees candy sales, 5K/10K walks, bingo) and nearby clubs can help out in two ways – volunteer to help at an activity or participate in a fundraising event and make a donation.  Of course, the biggest sharing event is our District convention (February 8), where all sorts of ideas are passed among attendees.

 Imagine my dismay when it was reported to me that there was an unfortunate incident regarding sharing.  Club A posted information in what Club B claimed was their “area.”  Club B removed Club A’s flyer.

THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR!

 No club owns an “area.”   Clubs should be welcoming information about other service activities or fundraisers – all of which support our Lions motto of “We Serve.”   Sharing can be among clubs, among districts, and even nationally or internationally.  If your club is having an activity, you should feel comfortable that you can pass it out and it will actually get to other Lions or even non-Lions.

 Remember – “We Serve.”  Now, let’s practice “We Share.”

                                                                                DG Linda Stent

“I wish I had something to do to fill in this free time.”

Every time I think I might have some free time, something comes up.  I’m sure most of you can identify with that.  Or perhaps you’re just the opposite: “I wish I had something to do to fill in this free time.” 

 Well, I’m here to help you out.  (Isn’t that my job as District Governor?)  Here are a few suggested action items to help fill your time.  Now, you don’t have to do all of them now . . .  You can always defer some of them to New Year’s resolutions . . .

 This is a good opportunity to practice delegating tasks to your club members and helping them to become more active club members.  Or, inviting non-Lions to participate and perhaps converting them into Lions.

•       Schedule vision screening if not already done.

•       Schedule Flags for First Graders and order flags from Keizer Lions Club.

•       Organize a Christmas event such as a Food Drive.

•       Make contributions to LCIF and OLSHF.

•       Join the OLSHF Pride.

•       Sign up to attend the Northwest Lions Leadership Institute training.

•       Volunteer to participate in the Lions Mexico Mission.

•       Schedule your District Governor visitation.

•       Volunteer at the LERC warehouse to sort donated glasses.

•       Submit an article to the Oregon Lions magazine.

•       Enter February 8 on your calendar for the 36-R Convention in Corvallis.

•       Partner with a community organization for a local event.

•       Submit club information to the 36-R website.

•       Read the online Oregon Lion magazine.

•       Make a visitation to another Lions Club.

•       Enter January 13-14 on your calendar for a special membership

·       training with International Second Vice President Mark Lyon in Keizer.

•       Have club officers complete online officer training.

•       Fill out our survey at https://www.md36lionsclubs.org/lions-survey-2024.

•       Read the 36-R Volunteer Project Guide for service opportunities (on the

·       36-R website).

•       Plan ahead to participate in the Peace Poster Contest next year.

·       Conduct an audit of club financials

•       Others.  (You fill in the blanks.)

Thanks for all you do (and may do) in the name of “We Serve.”

 DG Linda Stent

District 36-R Governor column – November 2024

     If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to KEEP MOVING FORWARD. 

-        Martin Luther King

     As I’m writing this column, Hurricane Milton is slamming into Florida.  This disaster grabs at the Service part of my heart and is the first step in my motto:  Forward!  Upward!  Onward! 

     I can’t even imagine suffering through this devastation on a personal level, much less watching my neighborhood disintegrate in front of my eyes, worrying about the welfare of friends and relatives. 

     I feel distressed, as I’m sure you all do, just seeing the photos and videos of all the damage and hearing about the injuries and fatalities.  But one of the things I hear about and see consistently in these pictures is people serving other people.  It may be a next-door neighbor or a first responder who has deployed from out of the area.  Again, SERVICE is the name of the game and will be for quite some time.

     LCIF recently put out information about what it has been doing in the hurricane areas. It has already issued millions of dollars in disaster and emergency grants throughout the disaster areas.  Please remember our fellow Lions (and non-Lions) back East and make generous donations to LCIF. 

     Several of you have asked about contacting individual clubs directly.  I have not seen any information about that but will forward it as I receive it.  If you have any questions about the relief efforts, please feel free to reach out to KaSondra Byrd (kasondra.byrd@lionsclubs.org) or Beth Smith (beth.smith@lionsclubs.org) directly.

GAT is the Global Action Team

I’m sure most of you have heard the expression “GAT” and then wondered “what is a GAT?”

GAT is the Global Action Team.  It is made up of the Global Service Team (GST), Global Membership Team (GMT), Global Leadership Team (GLT), and Global Extension Team (GET).

Oh boy, more acronyms . . .

GAT.  This is the group that oversees four vital District areas:  Service, Membership, Leadership, and Extension.   The GAT is comprised of the Team Coordinators and members of each of their teams.  The GAT Chair for District 36-R is myself.  I am responsible for providing leadership and guidance to ensure the successful implementation of GAT initiatives.  I can be contacted at stentlinda47@gmail.com.  

GST.  The GST Chair is Lion PCC Rod Bach.  He is responsible for enhancing service activities and projects to increase the impact of Lions in our communities.  He has several documents with suggestions for service activities that can help your club reach out to community in new and innovative ways.  Lion Rod can be contacted at rodbach@gmail.com.

GMT.  The GMT Chair is Lion CC Lynn Coon.  He is responsible for focusing on strategies to revitalize existing clubs with new members and remotivating current members.  Our District has been losing members at a rapid rate.  He is more than willing to work with you to determine what causes these losses and how to correct them.  Lion Lynn can be contacted at boston1@centurylink.net. 

GLT.  The GLT Chair is Lion Fran Silbernagel.  She is responsible for developing and supporting leadership initiatives to build strong, innovative leaders within the District.  She has already presented two officers training and a zone chair training and will be following up with those Lions who were not able to attend those trainings.  Lynn Fran can be contacted at fscamac@yahoo.com.

GET.  I am the GET Chair.  This is a new LCI position this year.   It specifically focuses on extension efforts, supporting the development of new clubs and membership growth.  If you have ideas for a new club (think branch clubs, specialty clubs) or the possibility of reviving a former closed club, please contact me at stentlinda47@gmail.com.

If you are interested in serving on any of these committees and helping out in these vital District areas, please contact the appropriate Committee Chair.  We appreciate your support!

•  DG Linda Stent