Be prepared to be dazzled

I just finished a meeting with our great convention committee.  You need to mark your calendars now May 29-30, 2026. In Springfield. Be prepared to be dazzled by the greatest convention ever in the state of Oregon.  Just a teaser, our international Guest Will be Past International President Douglas Alexander. Other tantalizing Information about our convention to come in months to follow. I encourage you to join our great and diverse lions from throughout Oregon and celebrate our great organization.

We have another great event coming up in October.  Lions International has introduced a program this year Called weeks of service. This is an opportunity for us to join with lions clubs throughout the world to celebrate our service to our communities and the world. The first week of service will be October 4th thru the 12th. This week we will focus on Mental Health and well-being. An estimated 700,000 people a year die by suicide, People who are exposed to adverse Circumstances like poverty, violence, disability, and inequality are at a higher risk of developing a mental health condition.  Depression is the leading cause of disability affecting more than 300 million people. We as Lions need to work together to raise awareness of the importance of mental health and well-being and advocate for positive change.

There are many projects that your club can undertake to raise awareness and advocate for your community.  You can promote Education and awareness, promote removing the stigma of those suffering from menta health issues, you can advocate for increased funding and accessibility to services, promote suicide hot line, donate items to transitional living facilities. These are just a few projects you can do to support mental health and well-being.

While we are doing these projects, we need to bring in prospective members and involve them in the great service that lions can accomplish. The more people the greater the service we can provide.

We need to work together as a team.  The officers of your district and multiple districts are here to serve you, we have the resources to help you accomplish your goals, breathe new life into your club.  By serving your community needs you can change the world with one small act of kindness at a time.

Lions must remember, just because you have done it that way in the past does not mean we cannot find a better way and a more efficient way in the future. Always be on the lookout for new opportunities to serve. Covid gave us gave us new way to get together as groups without traveling long distances. Embrace new technology to draw in people who are busy in life, have new ideas, and are willing to serve in new ways.

Remember Old Ways do not open new doors.

Our Motto is WE SERVE.

Our Motto is WE SERVE.  We serve to lead and Lead to Serve. Each of our elected and appointed officers in the district and multiple district are here to serve the clubs and membership of Lions MD36.  We are here help you reach your goals, the district goals, multiple district goals and the goals of lions International.  

We all have the same goals, Increase Membership, increase service, have fun, and enjoy the fellowship of our fellow lions. We are just looking at it from a different perspective.  We at the Multiple District Level are trying to help develop New Leaders with new ideas and new ways of providing services to our communities. Let us help help you reinvigorate your club.

As a Multiple District we have adopted a 5 Year plan to improve our Multiple District and make it more responsive to the needs of our members. I hope you will all take time to read the plan and hold us as leaders responsible for its implementation. We look forward to serving you.

Be aware of the weeks of service being promoted by lions’ clubs international. Our first week of service is Oct 4th through 12th. Mental health and wellbeing. You can find information and suggested activities on Lions International website under the helpful resources tab. I Challenge you to come together as lions in service and provide a service to our communities in need

Welcome to the new Lions year.

Welcome to the new Lions year.  Today we celebrate our accomplishments of the lions leaders of the past year and look forward to carrying forward these programs into the future for the benefit of the lions and the communities they serve.

During the past lions year under the tutelage of PCC Lynn Coon and our own Oregon lions sight and hearing foundation we as a district have instituted a 5 year plan in our district to guide us in in growth and service. To make the clubs in md36 an example of what lionism is.

Our first job will be to implement this plan.  We are forming an ad hoc committee to over see and begin implementing the changes need to bring our organization into the future.  We have asked PDG Carrie Bartley to head up this committee. With her drive and love for lions we anticipate that she be one of the people to lead us into the future.

The goals we are striving to implement during the lion year 2025-2026 are.

• Launch MD-36-led recruitment campaigns and membership outreach initiatives.

• Develop and implement standardized operating procedures for financial reporting and leadership transitions.

• Improve MD-36 communications by creating a centralized event calendar and streamlined reporting structures.

Leadership training in our district has fallen to the wayside since covid. We plan on bringing these vital programs back, so all lions have a chance rise and improve not only as lions but also as individuals. We also plan on getting more of our great lions trained and certified and ready to instruct their fellow lions so they can be comfortable in leadership roles in their clubs, zones, districts, and multiple districts.

Service reporting is another area that clubs in our multiple district are lacking in. We need to improve our reporting to 100 %. To do this we need to instruct club and district officers in the use of the lions portal. We no longer want lions’ clubs to be the best kept secret, we want to show our accomplishments to the world.

My favorite saying for the upcoming lions year is OLD WAYS DONOT OPEN NEW DOORS.  We need to look at how and what we do and ask ourselves do we need to continue doing this. Can we do it better, and who is my replacement. I am the mentor I will teach others so they can do the job and you can have satisfaction in a job well done.

It’s hard to believe this is my last article this Lions year.

Fellow Lions of multiple district 36. It’s hard to believe this is my last article this Lions year. As we have navigated this Lions year, I have seen our District Governors grow as leaders. I have seen our district governors and the Lions of the Multiple District serve with big hearts.

As I attended each district convention, I witnessed the fellowship and heart of the Lions in every district. I could see each Lion in attendance were there for the same reason they joined Lions and that was to make a difference as they served. I was reading some incredible data that was compiled with results that I see in the Lions of Multiple District 36, and it goes as follows.

95% feel they truly are making a difference. 92% enjoy opportunities for fellowship and fun. 91% feel they really belong. 86% feel personal growth and 80% feel their self-worth is enhanced.

All of this is because the Lions of this mighty multiple district work and serve together with one goal in mind and that is to make a difference to the communities we serve and each other.

Some highlights for this Lions year are your multiple district GAT team along with the district governors, OLSHF and incoming council worked together most of this Lions year on a five-year strategic plan. We wanted to roll this out in conjunction with the Oregon Lions sight and hearing foundations five- year plan at our multiple district convention. We want to work with our foundation more closely than we have in the past as we all want the same things and that is to serve the communities of MD36.  

The Lions of MD36 have screened almost two hundred thousand kids. Serving with our OLSHF we have made a difference.

The Lions have presented flags to first graders throughout our schools and given lessons on the flag and what it represents and how to respect it.

The Lions have served foodbanks and hunger drives, meals on wheels to support those in need.

The Lions have cleaned highways or parks for the environment. Lions have been crossing guards at our schools showing we care for the safety of our children.

The Lions have been committed to Mission 1.5 as I see growth in the Multiple District. Currently, we have district 36-O in the process of starting a new Lions club. Congratulations DG Lion Carrie 36-O and team. With that being said her district can finish with a positive net gain joining DG Lion Linda 36-R and her team with a positive net gain of 34 currently.

The Multiple District is sitting at a negative 8 net gain before district 36-O’s new club.

We sent a group of Lions to leadership training with Md19 which was held on the first weekend of May. This was through a grant which MD36 GLT Lion Rod Bach applied for and received. I have heard great positive feedback about the training and collaboration with many different Lions from MD19 and 36.

Speaking of grants, DG Lion Pete was quick to reach out when disaster hit his community which shows Lions being there to serve. This is the reason we should support LCIF. We receive much more than we ever give and when we get these grants, we make a difference to those we serve.

There are things I would still like to see in our Multiple District . Three of our four districts do not have first and second vice district governors in R, E, and G. To have succession we need more leaders to step up. We need our past district governors to help search, encourage and to mentor the Lions throughout our districts to step into leadership rolls. I know I was encouraged and mentored by many great Lions which gave me confidence to grow and serve.  

Harry S Truman stated that men make history and not the other way around. In periods when there is no leadership society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better. I believe we have many leaders amongst us in multiple district 36 they just need to be encouraged.

I feel very confident with our new incoming COG and the leadership they will continue with their ideas as they lead their districts. 

I have had the opportunity to work with CCE Lion Steve and the DGE’s Lions Brian, Karen, Nancy and Risa to have a smooth transition for the Multiple District . They have great ideas and as a multiple district we will continue our path of growth and service.

I would like to thank our district governors Lion Carrie, Lion Linda, Lion Paul and Lion Pete. Each have made my year as your council chair one I will cherish and remember. I want to thank the entire Lions of MD36 for having confidence in me to be the council chair, a title and honor I will always cherish. To be able to serve the mighty Lions of MD36 has been an incredible journey.

At the very beginning of this Lions year, I made the quote from Charles Darwin

Be the change you want to see in our association. it is not the strongest of the species that survive, not the most intelligent that survive. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.

Adapting and making changes is what we need to do if we are going to move forward with the Lions of Multiple District 36.  As DG Lion Carrie said at the start of our Lions year, the goal is to leave a legacy long after we are gone.

Lion Melvin Jones once said, “I hope there will always be a land of beyond for Lions International. A goal that will keep growing larger and larger as we approach it, yet will remain just out of reach. Challenging us to run faster, work harder, think bigger and give more.

Thank you, the mighty Lions of Oregon and Northern California for the memories.  With much gratitude in service Council Chair Lion Lynn Coon MD36

It Is Exciting to Serve With Each of You Lions of the Multiple District

Greeting Lions of Mighty Multiple District 36. It’s an exciting time to be a Lion. It’s exciting to be part of an organization that is making a difference throughout the world. It is exciting to serve with each of you Lions of the Multiple district. Being a Lion means so much to each one of us. It’s about the feeling we get while serving others but more than that it’s about how much it means to those we serve.

As I write my article for May, I have just finished up the fourth District Convention with the mighty Lions in each district. Each convention brought enthusiasm and gave me a chance to reunite with old friends and make new ones. It was the fellowship shared by all in attendance.

Each convention brought their own unique style but instilled the reason I became a Lion. It showed me that Lions are united in service and that together we have the power to change the world while serving from the heart. It instilled in me that we Lions can leave a legacy long after we have gone. We are all volunteers, and we all found a reason in our heart to serve others. Lion Mark Piva who is the Constitutional Area 1 GAT leader wrote an article and the thing I took from it was “VOLUNTEERS DON’T GET PAID – NOT BECAUSE THEY’RE WORTHLESS, BUT BECAUSE THEY ARE PRICELESS “. Each of you Lions are priceless to your club, your community to the multiple district and more than anything to those you serve. Each of you Lions are making your mark as International President Lion Fabricio Oliveira has asked us to do this Lions year.

It is hard to believe that this Lions year is fast approaching the end, and a new one will begin. On our drive of Mission 1.5 each club can celebrate the success of their achievements and membership growth within their club. This is up to every member. Every effort counts as we finish the Lions year strong. Let’s finish with enthusiasm. Let’s support each other and let’s finish this Lions year reflecting the strength and spirit of the mighty Lions of Oregon and Northern California. Let’s finish this Lions year retaining the members we have and growing with new members.  Achieving positive net gain for our clubs, districts and the multiple district. How nice it would be to see how many clubs in our multiple district can receive a Club Excellence award.

I want to remind all Lions about the 101st Multiple District convention. MAKING YOUR MARK, SERVICE FROM THE HEART in Pendelton Oregon May 16th & 17th. Our guest speaker from Lions International will be ID Lion Hans Neidhardt and his wife DG Lion Shari. They come to us from Potwin, Kansas. Our convention committee have been busy planning our convention. It will be a western theme as we will be in Pendleton home of one of the top rodeos in the world The Pendelton Roundup 115 years old. Hope to see all you mighty Lions of MD36 in attendance.

Continue inspiring each other while encouraging kindness as you serve others.    

In service Council Chair Lion Lynn Coon MD36

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!