MD1 Lions of Illinois State e-Magazine, June 2016

The Illinois Lion, Lioness, Leo MD1 e-Magazine (Full) Vol. 3 - Issue 15, June 2016

Multiple District 1 Council Chair Steve and Lion Gail & MD1 State Convention International Guest Lion Dianne & LCI Frist Vice President Chancellor Bob Corlew 1

our organization may one day be our International President. You just never know.

From Council Chair:

Secondly, the hard work of the Spouses of our Governors. Lions seem to forget that there is someone that serves as a leader in our state that works behind the scenes. This year the spouses with the help of Lion Gail Anton, decided that they wanted to do a service project that would make a difference in someone’s life. They worked together to form “Duffels for Dignity”. They raised the money that was used to help those foster children who needed a duffel bag to carry their belongings in as they are sometimes moved from place to place. Yes, the program changed somewhat through the year to help those children that are abused and mistreated, to help seniors that are struggling in the “Golden Years” but the idea to help someone is still there. Lion Gail had asked me if it was appropriate if the First Ladies could write a “Spouses Speak” article every month in this magazine and I told her that it was not only appropriate but it’s the right thing to do. So I hope that you enjoyed reading and learning something about those that really do get overlooked for what they give of themselves and their spouse.

Fellow Lions, Many things cross your mind when it comes time to write your last article as the Council Chairman for the Lions of MD-1. What do you want to say about the year? Do you speak about the beginning, way back in Hawaii, when the current Council of Governors began their time as the leaders of the state and districts? Do you talk about the work of the Council, their discussions and decisions? Do you tell stories about the things that happened during our travels around the state? Perhaps, even talk about the things that you now wish you could have done differently? Do you look for that AH-HA moment? I don’t think so.

I just want to touch on two final thoughts. First being, the growth in membership in MD-1. For the first time in a very long time, our membership numbers are up. Maybe not in every district but nonetheless, MD-1 is on the plus side and once again proving that we have turned the corner and we are on the rebound. Our GLT and GMT have made and continue to make the difference, making our recruitment drive easier on all those involved.

Who knows, that new Lion that you brought into

Congratulations to the First Ladies and to their one and only HOG (Husband of the Governor) and Lion Gail. Job well done.

I wish the next Council Chairman, IPDG Mark Williams from District 1-BK, much success in his year of leadership to his Council of Governors.

2015-2016 COUNCIL OF GOVERNORS WITH

CHANCELLOR BOR CORLEW & LION DIANNE

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To the 2016-2017, the Centennial Council, be the best that you can be. Enjoy your year, make those memories, make a difference and most of all, have fun. It will be over before you know it.

have a place for their few belongings. In addition, the project was able to expand its scope to help other needy children in different organizations. I am happy to announce that by July 1st all monies collected will have been dispersed to help needy children in each of our 10 districts, thanks to the hard work of the Spouses. This group designed cards and sold them and wrote a monthly article called “Spouse Speaks” (which talked about each of them) to promote the project.

To the 2015-2016, Council of Governors, Thank you for allowing Lion Gail and I to serve with you. To be part of the growth in Illinois and to share in everything that you have experienced throughout the year.

Finally, “Thank You” once again Gail, for giving of yourself. Your efforts, your time and your help to the Council and to me are immeasurable. It has always been the two of us and it always will be the two of us in any path we take.

And to the Spouses, I applaud all of you hard work to complete this wonderful project “Duffels for Dignity”. You came together last August and worked as a well-oiled machine to meet your goals.

You stepped up and exchanged ideas, made a plan, implemented it and I guess the rest is history, and history you did make. After talking to a lot of Lions, they really don’t remember any group of the Spouses achieving this success. I guess times are changing! I will miss our team meetings, emails and flurry of ideas that you worked on all year.

Most of all, I will miss each and every one of you and the friendships we have made. I look forward to our paths crossing again in the future.

So, Thank You Lions, One and All, Lion Steve, Council Chairman 2015-2016 santonlions@comcast.net

Some Parting Words From Lion Gail……….

It has been my pleasure to be a part of the Council for the 2015-2016 term. I have had the privilege to meet and visit with Lions from all over our wonderful state. Your hospitality and kindness that was extended to me has made me feel like family, which the Lions are to me. I was able to reconnect with old friends and to make new friends during this past year. It was a great opportunity to learn and share information about the many wonderful clubs and their activities from all over the state. I know I will share some of these ideas with my home club.

A special note to Incoming First Lady Maggie Williams and the Spouses of the Council of 20162017, I wish you all the best of luck as you embark on the Centennial year of our organization. Each and every one of you has so much to offer. I know you are all excited to get started. Enjoy every minute of your year; it goes by in the blink of an eye.

Although it’s sad the year is over… I leave you with this quote: “Don’t cry that’s it's over………Smile because it happened”. Dr. Seuss Until our paths cross again, -Lion Gail

I also want to thank the Lions of Illinois for your support of the Spouses project “Duffels for Dignity”. Your donations to the cause, allowed this wonderful group to help so many foster children with the gift of duffel bags and other necessities, to 3

SPOUSE SPEAKS…

BY SUE ZARADA From Honolulu, Hawaii to Springfield, Illinois and all stops in between what a year this has been! My name is Sue Zarada wife of District Governor Ralph Zarada of District 1A. I have been a member of the River Grove Lions for 9 years.

Governor Ralph and I will celebrate our 15th anniversary on May 20. We have one daughter and one son and four grandsons, and look forward to spending more time with them now that this year is coming to an end. Our daughter Deneen passed away almost 14 years ago and this journey as Governor and First Lady is dedicated to her.

I have loved my year as First Lady, it has been busy, exciting, humbling and so very incredibly special.

Governor’s visits to at least 60 clubs, fundraisers, council meetings in Springfield and conventions have all been a learning experience and all so personally rewarding. We have met Consulate Generals, former First Lady Laura Bush, to name a few, all through this year of Lionism. We have made friends that will last a lifetime!

It has been an incredible experience being part of the MD1 spouses. Our “Duffels for Dignity” project is something we can all feel proud of. And getting to know our “HOG” husband of the Governor Jerry, Janet, Jani, Luanne, Marcia, Marsha, Mary and Pam has been an incredible blessing and joy!

I have more respect than ever for this wonderful organization – it has been proven over and over again how true our motto is “ We Serve “ – from the smallest projects to disaster relief, it makes me very proud to say I am a lion!

I want to wish all the incoming governors and their spouses a year as rewarding and gratifying as ours as been. Enjoy every moment, take time to smell the roses, it goes very quickly! Thank you MD1 for your love and support. God bless you all!

Lion Sue Zarada District 1A

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In the coming Centennial Year of Lions 100 Years Celebrations, our District leaders make it sure that all key leaders in their District take active part in statewide celebrations. This is how we grow personally and in our Lions activities. I plead our incoming District Governors during my interview, they should make it sure that there will be more participation from all Districts in MD1 and also make it sure that every Lion in MD1 receives this eMagazine to read and enjoy.

Editorial: What a MD1 Convention!

Those who attended Multiple District 1 State of Illinois Convention really had a blast. International Guest Lions Clubs International First Vice President Chancellor Bob Corlew and his lovely wife Lion Dianne were icing on the cake! They mingled with Joe Lion freely as known friends and the Lions were so happy to meet them in person and to click some pictures to remember. Those who missed to meet Chancellor Bob, there is a second chance when he will visit MD1 Leadership Forum to kick off the 2017 International Convention in Chicago the Lions of Illinois will be hosting a MD1 Fall Rally on October 22, 2016 at the Embassy Suites in East Peoria, Illinois. Mark your calendar now. There will be a dinner celebration with International President Chancellor Bob Corlew and First Lady of the World of Lionism Lion Dianne Corlew.

Every club in MD1 must have Centennial Coordinators to work with communities to spread our 100 years of Lionism and publish activities, stories and projects in every media possible. Social media should be our heartbeat to keep us alive, active and a tool to advertise ourselves. It is free and cost us nothing. Facebook, Twitter is available for our use and let us make the best out of them.

-PDG Austin D’Souza, Ph.D. ILStateEditor@gmail.com

As usual, I posted close to 1,300 photographs on facebook and the comments made by Lions and their friends and family members after looking at these pictures made me very happy to read and it was my payback for taking all the trouble for taking the pictures and publishing them ASAP. Those did not attend the convention felt like they were there in person after seeing all these pictures.

GLOBAL LEADERSHIP: Jama Wahl As the 2015-16 Lions’ year winds down, the 2016-17 Lions’ year is just beginning.

At the district level, this means a new District Governor is taking the reigns.

Each District Governor Elect has been asked to work with the current District Governor, Vice District Governors, GLT, and GMT to develop leadership and membership goals. These goals were then submitted to Lions Clubs International for posting.

District Governor Elects were also asked to share these goals with Cabinet members, Region and Zone Chairs, Club Officers, and Lions members.

The goals can be viewed by going to this link on the LCI website:

Hearty congratulations to all those who received International President’s Certificates, Medals and Leadership Medals. This was their paycheck for their dedication and hard work in their Districts to promote Lionism further. When they receive these awards and shed some tears of happiness, their leadership changes for better. We all should remember that ‘Recognition’ matters no matter who you are and how many times you repeat that you are not volunteering for awards.

http://members.lionsclubs.org/EN/districts/distri ct-governors/district-goals.php Once at the link: -scroll down to either Leadership or Membership and click -select view or print goals -select the constitutional area

MD1 is one of the largest districts in the US; however, attendance to MD1 conventions or leadership forums by our District Lions is very poor.

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-select Multiple District 1 -hit submit -scroll down to your district and click

last year. Those same clubs feel great if they conducted more or larger service projects this year than last year. That makes sense. What if that same club finished the year with more members than that which they started? That’s the kind of bang I’m talking about. A number of clubs are already in that category. Is yours? If not, there still is one month left to get there.

Progress on meeting the goals and actions plans will be monitored by the DG Team and shared at cabinet meetings. Can you as an individual Lion, cabinet member, zone chair, or region chair help your District Governor Elect meet the district goals? Consider how you might assist!

If you end this year with a net gain in membership, come next year you can review the questions in the second paragraph above. “Was the amount of funds raised enough to do what they had hoped to accomplish? Did their service projects have a noticeable impact on the individuals and community served?” I can’t guarantee that your answers will be yes. But additional members should make it a lot easier to say yes. So I say again, let’s finish with a bang!

-Jama Wahl, MD1 GLT Coordinator

GLOBAL MEMBERSHIP CORNER: Let’s Finish With A Bang!

We’re entering the last month of the 2015-2016 Lion Year. Maybe your club’s President is happy it’s almost over. I ask you to remember your Lions lapel pin and the Lion’s logo on it. It bears two lions; one looking to the past and the other looking to the future.

Lion Paul Gergolla, PDG MD-1 GMT Coordinator Phone: 630-858-8073 Email: lionpg1@aol.com

The lion looking to the past automatically reminds one that June is the month that many Lions clubs review what they have done in the year that is almost over. They size up their fundraisers and their service projects. Was the amount of funds raised enough to do what they had hoped to accomplish? Did their service projects have a noticeable impact on the individuals and community served? You will have to look at your own club’s record to answer those questions.

Spouse Speaks By: -Lion Luanne Ragland, District 1CN

The other lion, the one looking forward, is another matter. Perhaps your incoming President has already announced a set of goals he or she would like to see met next year. Many Lions clubs would like to do a little more next year than they did this year. That sounds well and good. What if any club would set goals that were dramatically larger than what they did this year? For some, it could sound scary. They ask: How on earth are we going to do that? It could be done if they finish the year with a bang.

I am the spouse of District 1-CN Governor Elmer Ragland. Our Lion’s year started out good until February 26 when DG Elmer was in the hospital and had to go home with Heartland Hospice. He was diagnosed in late July that he has ALS, Lou Gehrig’s disease. He continued his duties as Governor, as he continues to fight this disease. He is on a Trilogy machine 24/7 as he struggles to breath and is unable to do anything. He was able to do part of a day at our District Convention in April and has not been anywhere since. On April

What kind of bang am I talking about? Any club feels good if they raised more funds this year than 6

22nd our Lions Club had a candlelight prayer vigil for him at our home.

MD1 PDG’S ASSOCIATION NEWS: In 5 months we are going to have MD1 Lions Leadership forum and MD1 PDG Association’s Annual Elections for the Year 2017-2019.

The New Athens Lions Club gave DG Elmer his first hearing aid. His 3rd grade teacher noticed that he was having a hearing problem, and so he had to take 3rd grade a second time. At that time he told his mother that someday he would become a Lion.

In June 1990 he became a Lion with the Morton Lions Club as we had lived there for 32 years before moving to Waterloo in November 2002 when we had both retired from our jobs. I became a Lion at the Morton Lions Club in January 2002 and became their Treasurer. In January 2003 we transferred our membership to the Waterloo Lions Club. We have always had 100% attendance at meetings, participated in club fundraisers, and attended district and state conventions. DG Elmer was a LIF trustee for 2 years and 3 months before becoming District Governor. We are both Melvin Jones Fellows and Lions of Illinois Foundation Fellows, and DG Elmer has the progressive LIF award.

On October 22, 2016 at the Embassy Suites in East Peoria, Illinois this event will be held in the presence of then International President Chancellor Bob Corlew and his lovely wife Lion Dianne Corlew. There will be a Fall Rally of Centennial Convention in Chicago and a dinner banquet with President Corlew and Lady Dianne.

Soon you will be receiving information from the committee to reserve your seats and make this event a memorable one to brag that you met International President and First Lady of Lions Clubs International. There will be a reduced registration for the Forum and Dinner. Keep your calendar marked for this event. Bring your new members and club leaders to show our International President our unity and fellowship.

We will be married 59 years on September 7th and have 3 daughters, 8 grandchildren, and a greatgrandson. We enjoy being with our family. We are active members of St. Paul United Church of Christ in Waterloo. We both grew up in southern Illinois.

Same day after the Forum, there will be MD1 Past District Association’s Annual General Body Meeting. I request all Past District Governors to attend this event and take active part in the elections. Any of you want to run for President, Vice President or Secretary/Treasurer of our prestigious association, please send your name to our Association Secretary/Treasurer – PCC Terry Knollenberg to his e-mail address:

The spouses of this year’s District Governors had a fundraiser, Duffles for Dignity, and I was asked to donate $500 to a charity. I had given this $500 to House of Neighborly Service for Monroe County, IL. This is a new organization since the state has limited funding.

This organization helps our community with a local food pantry and assists our neighbors in need, including families with children, seniors who are vulnerable, and individuals who are reaching out for a “hand up.”

md1cc1112@gmail.com.

-PDG Austin D’Souza, President, PDG Association of MD1

We enjoyed visiting the different clubs in our district and attending the Council of Governor meetings but are sorry that we could not finish this year and that we could not be at the state convention.

Dear Lion Leaders, I am sharing a message sent to all district governors. I am asking district governors to follow up with their clubs to reduce end-of-year drops and encourage membership growth. I'm also reminding district governors that time is running out to earn

-Lion Luanne Ragland (Let us keep in our prayers for the good health of Governor Elmer. – Editor) 7

strong! Visit information.

recognition in the Lions Dignity Awards. Please work with your district governors to make sure your district positioned for a strong finish to the Lion year.

the Dignity

Award

page for

more

Important Reminders

Sincerely,

 Remind clubs of the resources available on Lions100.org to help them promote their Centennial activities to the media.  Encourage your clubs to promote their Legacy Projects by customizing our Legacy Projects press release and holding a dedication ceremony.  Remind your clubs to start planning a project impacting youth in their community for the Worldwide Week of Service for Youth this August 8–14.

-Dr. Jitsuhiro Yamada International President Dear District Governor, The end of our Lion year is a time to celebrate our accomplishments and reflect on our impact at home and around the world. It's also time to make sure we've achieved our membership goals for the year.

One of the best ways to achieve growth in your district is to reduce end-of-year membership drops.

Encourage your club leaders to follow up with members to ensure they're having a great club experience, and remind clubs that the best way to keep members satisfied is to get them involved in service.

Beginning April 25, silver Centennial Lion pins will be sent to regional offices, district governors and club officers for distribution. In May, recipients will be listed online.

Continue to make inviting new members a priority and remind clubs that each new member serves 50 people on average. And if you haven't chartered a new club yet, make sure you do so before the end of the year. Not only will it help grow your district and bring new service to new areas, but it's also the key to earning your Dignity Award.

With your help, we can strengthen our global membership and increase the number of lives we impact every day.

Sincerely, Dr. Jitsuhiro Yamada Your International President

The biggest convention in the history of World Lionism! Be a part of it, Volunteer.

Last Chance to Earn Your Dignity Award With just over a month left in the Lion year, this is your last chance to earn your Lions Dignity Award. Here are some tips to help you earn your recognition:

June 1st is Helen Keller Day!

 Reduce year-end drops to achieve membership growth.  Continue to make membership growth in your district a priority.  Charter a new club in your district.

There's still time to earn your Dignity Award in Period 2, so work with your district team to finish the year

Celebrate and Remember Lions’ Hero 8

Our Newly Elected MD1 Council Chairperson Mark Williams with his lovely wife Lion Maggie. He hails from District 1BK. He will be sworn-in in Japan during MD1 Centennial First Council Meeting.

Send your articles, pictures or news to: ILStateEditor@gmail.com for publication on this MD1 e-Magazine on the Web. Let the World of Lions know your club activities, projects and achievements for which you should be proud of!

Remember – It is totally free publicity!!

MD1 District Governor Elects (Sitting) with their Spouses (Standing) with First VP Chancellor Corlew & Lion Dianne. Photo was taken prior to MD1 State Convention Banquet on Saturday, May 21,

2016 in Springfield Hilton. LCI First VP Chancellor Bob and Lion Dianne Corlew were the International Guests for the Convention.

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and need yearly augmentation or replacement. In past years, weeds and unwanted scrub trees have been removed on Spruce-Up day but not this wet and rainy Saturday. The Genoa Park District provided a luncheon at the Park District Building next to Chamberlain pool at noon, however; many of the Lions attended a memorial service for Lion Frank Paciga who passed away this spring instead of enjoying the luncheon. Whilst working on one of the parks Lion Dreska met local resident Tom Sklena and his two children, Jakob and Emma, and like Tom Sawyer, Mike convinced the kids to help spread wood chips. The following Lions participated today and Lion Jerry Helland took these action photographs. Genoa Lion President Bob Becker, Pelley, Helland, Sanford, Dreska, Bafia, Holdridge, Ross, and Merritt.

District Governor, Elmer Ragland (of 1CN) has ALS and is in Hospice. Pictured is ID Melvin Bray, DG Elmer Ragland and 2ndVDG for 1CN Ron Mueller.

This was one of the District 1CN Convention pictures.

PDG Al Gort and Lion Angie Foster at the District 1F Convention Banquet.

Genoa Park District Playground Spring Spruce-Up The group photo in the gazebo: (l. to r.) Lions Mike Ross, Jim Sanford, President Bob Becker, Paul Bafia, Jerry Helland, Dale Pelley, Bill Holdridge, Mike Dreska, and perhaps Emma Sklena in front. (not pictured Lion Merritt)

Today, Saturday April 30th, Paul Bafia, Executive Director of the Genoa Park District hosted the annual Park Volunteer Day. He invited the Genoa Lions and other community members to spruce-up the various playgrounds in Genoa. Of course, the Lions started at 8 a.m. with Lions Corner Park on the corner of Madison and Walnut, spreading brand new wood chips (ASTM, A.D.A. certified) under all of the playground equipment. The wood chips are there to absorb the impact from a fall and to keep mud and weeds away from the play area,

The group photo near the slide: (l. to r.) – Next Page: Lions Holdridge, Pelley, Merritt, Dreska, Bafia, Sanford, President Becker, Ross (not pictured Lion Helland) 10

Lion Dale Pelley raking wood chips at Lions Corner Park on Saturday May 30th.

Lion Paul Bafia (Exec. Director of Genoa Park District) wields a wheel barrow of chips beside Lion Jim Sanford, working with two replacement knees.

Lion Mike Dreska, our modern day Tom Sawyer, taking a short break hanging out on the equipment.

PECATONICA ELEMENTARY "UNLOCKS YOUR HEART" FOR LIONS OF ILLINOIS FOUNDATION How many keys do you have in your pocket or laying around that are no longer needed? That was 11

the question posed by the Lions of Illinois Foundation for their ongoing campaign "Unlock Your Heart", to collect and recycle old keys to benefit the Comprehensive Low Vision Programs for Youth. The Pecatonica Lions put out the challenge to the Pecatonica Elementary School and boy did they deliver. The students collected keys from 4/6 until 4/22, Earth Day, and collected an

Ecuador” on May 19, 2016 at the Lions Clubs International Headquarters, Oakbrook.

unbelievable number of 4909 keys! Each class was given their own Foundation "Unlock Your Heart" bucket to fill. The winning class was Mrs. Amanda Brandenburg's 4th grade class that collected 732.

They beat out the second place class by only 90 keys. The Pecatonica Lions will now be treating the winning class to an ice cream treat at 3rd Street Station.

PDG Austin D’Souza left from The Forest Lions and Lion Kristopher Kempski from Chicago Windy City Lions Club member who works at LCI Headquarters

Glenwood Lions Club celebrated their 50th Charter Nite a the Brookwood Junior High School auditorium. Far left is 1A DGE Ernie Lapid.

PDG Charlie Siefert, Governor of 1BK holding his final Cabinet Meeting.

The Forest Kala Sampath Lions Club donated more than $1,200 worth of Senior Citizens Diapers (8 Boxes,) toiletry, socks, etc., to Chicago Windy City Lions signature project, “Pack the Plane to

President Elect Melinda Plott from Glenwood Lions Club taking oath from PDG Austin D’Souza.

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Chicago FIL-USA Lions Club’s Governor’s night and Dancing with the Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind Fun raiser at the Northbrook Hilton. However, First Lady Sue Zarada danced with PDG Dave Hansen and shocked everyone.

Glenwood Mayor Lion Ron Gardiner was the emcee for Glenwood Lions 50th Anniversary Celebrations.

Region 3 in District 1A held their final Region Chicago Heights Lions Club celebrated their 68 th Charter Anniversary at the Chicago Heights Park District Golf Course Hall. PDG Austin was the keynote speaker who spoke on Centennial Celebration & Lions History with video presentation.

meeting at the Northbrook Hilton. Some Filipino Lions along with dignitaries posed for a picture.

District 1A Fourth Cabinet Meeting was held at the William Tell Hotel Hilton in Countryside.

Some lions thinking how to dance Hawaiian during

A loving moment was captured at the end of Fourth Cabinet Meeting of District 1A. Governor Ralph and First Lady Sue Zarada in action. How sweet it is!

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Scholarship forms to their area high schools.

Applications were received and the task of reviewing those applications was under taken by the Scholarship Committee members: PDG Karen Johnson, Lion Jama Wahl, PDG John “Pickles” Pajkos, Lion John Whalen, and myself. Two Scholarships were awarded for the 2016-2017 school term.

Eleanor Grace Tibbott from Morris Community High School and Kyler van Rossum-O’Connell from Joliet West High School were the students chosen to receive the Scholarships. President Judith Miller of the Morris Lions presented Eleanor with her check for $750 at the Honors Awards Program held Wednesday, May 11th at the high school. The Joliet Noon Lions will be presenting Kyler with his check at one of their luncheon meetings in June.

Kyler’s parents will also be in attendance at the Noon meeting.

Eleanor and Kyler join the other 6 students already in our program. Those 6 students have turned in their re-application forms which are currently being reviewed. To continue receiving the Scholarship for each of their four years in school, the students must show they are remaining in their field of study of 'special education' and must maintain a minimum of a 'B' average.

Again the committee thanks all the clubs in 1-BK who took the time to present the applications to their local high schools and to all the clubs who sent in a donation.

Students entering the field of special education share the values of Lionism; reaching out to those in need. We look forward to continue to help as many students as is possible.

TAMPICO LION CLUB MEMBERS HONOR PAST DECEASED MEMBERS: The Tampico Lions Club Members honor their past deceased by doing a Spring Clean-up around the Tampico Lions Club Gazebo in honor of all past deceased members.

Tampico Lions Club meets on the 2nd & 4th Monday at 7pm in the Old Town Pub and Grub Restaurant and all meal meetings are open to the public interested in Tampico Lions membership.

Your meal will be paid for by the club for your first visit in hoping you will consider membership.

Tampico Lions Club supports non-profit organizations, people in need of eye glasses and exams if the individual if not able to pay for this need. (Pictured L-R: Lion Larry Ebersohl, Lion Treasurer Duane Thompson, Lion Connie Mikles, Lion Al Wildman, and taking the picture is Lion Secretary Terry Gaskill) DISTRICT 1-BK SCHOLARSHIP NEWS The Scholarship committee wishes to thank all the clubs in 1-BK for taking the time to get the 14

Living up to our motto of ‘We Serve’ -John Joseph Honiotes, 1-BK Scholarship Chair

West Frankfort Lions Club President Chuck Kain with his wife Lion Gayla Kain. The Old King Coal Festival runs for 4 days every year. This year was from May 12 thru May 15. The Promoter of the Festival is also a Lion, Steve Sawalich.

PDG Bill Kelley (L) and Lion Scott Williams (R)

DISCTRICT 1CS CONVENTION PICTURES. 15

Carbondale Lions Club New Members: 1.Brian Bird 2. Cinnamon Wheeles Smith 3. Karl Maple Welcome to Lionism!

Carbondale Lions Clubs’ Trash Pick-up Day. Lions getting ready to pick up the trash to keep their environment clean.

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Leader Dogs for the Blind Trip Sponsored by the Leaf River Lions October 27 & 28, 2016 If you are interested in making this trip to Leader Dog YOU MUST respond by May 31 and let me know how many in your party. This is on a FIRST COME FIRST SERVED basis.

Cost for the 2 day trip: Single person -

-

-

-

-

-

-

$190.00

Couple-

-

-

-

-

-

-

$300.00

-

(Different groupings are possible you just need to ask) What is included in your cost: Thursday October 27: Transportation in 56 passenger Van Galder coach Continental Breakfast prior to boarding Buffet dinner at Quality Inn

Mail registration and payment to:

Lodging

Lion Paul Lindstrom

Friday October 28:

Post Office Box 189

Great Hot breakfast at Hotel

Leaf River, IL 61047

Lunch at Leader Dog Bus Driver Tip What is NOT Included: Thursday Lunch at Cracker Barrel on trip to Leader Dog Friday dinner at Bob Evans on return trip home Information required: Name(s): __________________________________________________

Contact Number: ____________________

Address: __________________________________________________

Room Request – double or queen

Address: __________________________________________________

Circle room selection above

Please call 815 738 2761 or email pandrew@lrnet1.com if you have questions and to get your name on the list by May 31. One half of trip cost due when signing up remainder due August 15. Checks made out to Leaf River Lions Club. Refunded if not enough interest and the trip is canceled.

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SHAWNEETOWN LIONS CLUB  On April 23 the Lions Club of Shawneetown held its first Centennial Service Challenge project for Protecting the Environment and Engaging Our Youth. The project was a great success.  The Lions members, PDG

town.  With everyone working as a team we were finished and on our way in under 2 hours.  The

Police and Fire departments volunteered as well, also helping to keep everyone safe by parking fire trucks and police cars, with lights flashing, at either end of town.  Thanks to the city-wide clean up that was going on that week the volunteers were able to discard the bags of trash in the large dumpsters on the main mall.  Bottled water was donated for the volunteers by Shawnee Hometown Hardware.  Plastic bags and gloves were also donated locally.  Volunteering your time not only helps those in needs, but also gives you a sense of pride and accomplishment that comes from deep within.

Randy Ferguson and local residents who volunteered, cleaned up trash and aluminum cans.

 There were approximately 25 people helping to support this service project. The Ohio Valley General Baptist Church Youth Director and members came to volunteer. Shawneetown Mayor David Barker and city council board member Lisa Smith arrived ready to pick up and clean up their

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The first place winner was Lauren Fox and the second place winner was Alayna Sheppard. The first place poster by Lauren Fox was judged, along with Posters from Lions Clubs from around Southern Illinois, at the Lions District Cabinet Meeting in New Athens, Illinois, in January.

Lauren’s Poster will now advance to the Lions of Illinois State Convention in Springfield, Illinois in May. The Thompsonville Lions Club hosted a Banquet and Awards Ceremony for the 1st and 2nd place winners and their families at the Thompsonville Village Hall. This is the 10th year that the Thompsonville Middle School has participated in the contest and has been invited to an Awards Ceremony and Banquet hosted by the Thompsonville Lions Club.

Pictured L>R Alayna Sheppard 2nd Place winner, Lauren Fox 1st place winner, past winners Kailee Fox and Allysa Fox with PDG Chip Farrington, Peace Poster contest Chairperson  The Thompsonville Lions Club would like to congratulate the young ladies of the Fox Family. This family has had three winners in the Thompsonville Lions Club Peace Poster Contest.  Past winner Allysa Fox is presently attending Rend Lake College on an Art Scholarship.  Past winner Kailee Fox is a Freshman at Thompsonville High school and is academically #1 in her class.  Present winner Lauren Fox is a Seventh Grader at the Thompsonville Middle School.  Mom, Tara Fox says she has only three daughters so it looks like the dynasty has ended although Lauren still has a chance next year. These talented young ladies are the daughters of Tara and Eric Fox of Thompsonville.  All three of these young ladies and their parents were recognized at our District Convention in April at the Rend Lake Resort.

On May 12th, Mr.Tom Lasley from the Center of Sight and Hearing in Rockford, IL, gave the Oregon Lions Club members a tour of the facility.

The Center has been helping individuals with vision and hearing loss lead independent lives since 1962.

Oregon Lions Club President Chris Martin and Oregon Lions Club Secretary Chuck McCourt presented Mr. Lasley with a check for $3,000 from the club. Pictured from left to right: Lion Chuck McCourt, Mr. Tom Lasley and Lion Chris Martin

(Pictured in Photo are: L>R Art Teacher Libby Garza, 2nd place winner Alayna Sheppard, 1st Place Winner Lauren Fox, and Lions Peace Poster Chairperson, Chip Ferguson. The Thompsonville Lions Club recently held their annual Lions Club International Peace Poster Contest. The Theme this year was “Share Peace”. This year there were 8 entrants from the Thompsonville Middle School.

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were guests of the Kirkland Lions, a club in the Northeast Region of District 1-D. Together, the clubs toured Kirkland Lion Dennis Rehn’s Farm Museum on Stone Quarry Road, a few miles south of Belvidere. Kirkland Lions, and Host Lion Dennis Rehn, prepared barbecued pork chops for dinner at the museum. Kirkland Lions explained how they handled and distributed hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash donations and gift cards that poured in after the tornado hit nearby community of Fairdale.

Pictured (Group): Oregon Lions Club Members at The Center for Sight and Hearing.

Naperville Noon Lions Club Foundation recently donated $10,000 to the Naperville Park District to complete its pledge of $35,000 in support of installing signage for low vision and hearingimpaired at Knoch Knolls Nature Center. Sue Ormanson, Director of Community Relations for the Park District, (c) was on hand to accept the final payment. On the left is Lion Donna Kearney, and at right is Club President Lion Bob Hull. Several community volunteers, who are blind or have low vision, provided ideas and feedback about the development. Visitors to Knoch Knolls Nature Center, will be able to find their way around the Center using the seven signs that were installed with the donation. Lion Bob Hull, Pres. Of the Naperville Noon Lions Club stated: “This was a great addition to the Knoch Knolls Nature Center and the club looks forward to working with the Park District in the future.”

The Oregon Lions Club wish to honor Roger Brunner for his service to the club. He has been a member since May 10th, 1956 (a total of 60 years.)

Roger was District Governor from 1972-1973, a Melvin Jones Award recipient and was also honored as a Foundation Fellow. He continues to attend meetings and is respected by all members of the Oregon Lions Club for his lengthy and unwavering service to Lionism.

Waterman Lions, in the Southwest Region of 1-J,

Napervile Noon Lions Club Foundation was recognized by Feed My Starving Children for being a five year sponsor of the Feed the Need project.

The Foundation has contributed over $25,000 to Feed the Need during this time period. In addition, 20

placed around town. Nine completely full vans of

the Club has also provided support with many volunteers to help pack meals during this period. (l to r) Les May, Project Coordinator for Feed the Need, Lion Maria Wilson, who coordinated the club’s involvement with Feed the Need event, Lion Bob Hull, President Naperville Noon Lions Club, and Bob Heubner, Project Coordinator for Feed the Need.

items were taken to Jesse Brown in Chicago and Transient Living Services in McHenry for the vets’ new residence living needs. The Veterans’ Auxiliary obtained a commitment from a local store to provide a double bed for each new residence and the SCH Lions Club is providing new sheets for these beds.

Lisle Lion Gary Morten gives an Arbor Day

Algonquin Lions Club held an Induction Ceremony for its newest Lion, Kevin Gardeck, at its April 11th General Meeting. (l to r) Sponsor Lion Adriaan Vrught (father-in-law), new Lion Kevin Gardeck, and Lion Bill Moore, who performed the Induction Ceremony.

presentation to Schiesher School students. This is the 4th year the club has participated in the 4th Grade Foresters Project. The children are each given a Norway Spruce seedling to take home and plant. The project originates in Nebraska where Arbor Day had its beginnings.

(l to r) Diane Ahrens of the Vets’ Auxilliary, Sun City-Huntley Lions Jim Harper and Helen White stand with some of the many donated items. Sun City Huntley Lion Helen White, Project Chair of the club’s Veterans’ Housing Starter Kit Program, continues to accept items from Lions and the community by arranging for donation boxes to be

West Chicago Lion John Klingberg was honored at the District 1-J Convention with a Jim & Joyce Davis Lifetime Service Award. He received his award at the Sunday Morning Breakfast in the company of his wife and son. Lion John was recognized for 52 years of service to his club and the community. (l to 21

r) Ken Klingberg, DG Lion Bob Fowler, West Chicago

Spring Raffle. There was standing room only and free sandwiches, too!

McHenry Lion Carol Perschke received the Jim and Joyce Davis Lifetime Service Award at the April District 1J Convention.

Lion John Klingberg, and Joanne Klingberg.

Southeast Region George Lazansky Winners were: Warrenville Lion Lynn Miller, Naperville Noon Lion Bob Hull and Darien Lion Frank Modelski, with plaques, accompanied by Zone Chairs Lion Jim Kiser and Lion Renee Reeder.

Bloomingdale and Glendale Heights Barangay Lions Clubs joined forces for the annual clean-up of a portion of the Prairie Path. Note the No Motor Vehicles sign and the wheel (complete with tire) obviously off of a motor vehicle!!

Hopeful ticket holders look to see if their numbers are still on the board at the Sandwich Lions Club’s Annual Lou Brady Memorial Scholarship Drawdown held in late April at the Fox Valley Community

Burlington Lionesses Jean Micklevitz, Deb Twenhafel, and Lynne Kuhn working at the club’s 22

Center. This event provides funding for two $2,000 scholarships to be awarded to graduating students from Sandwich Community High School.

Kardatzke, Jake McConnell, Sponsor Lion Rob Corson, Erik Padilla, Sponsor Lion Jim Kiser, and David Smetak, Sponsor Lion Tony Zeman.

So the World May Hear‌..

Many people struggle on a daily basis to participate in life around them. For many an inability to hear well makes life an ongoing challenge. For some, isolation, depression and loneliness are constant companions because they cannot hear. They wish for something different, but they do not know where to turn.

WatermanLions visit_Kirkland Lions -- for the Waterman Lions_Farm MuseumVisit.

The Starkey Hearing Foundation may be able to help you brighten many futures by providing hearing aids to those who need them but have no other way to acquire them.

Hear Now is the US program of the Starkey Hearing Foundation. As such, Hear Now serves low income individuals who permanently reside in the US who have no other resources to acquire hearing aids.

Anyone having any benefit for hearing aids, in part or total, through VA, an insurance plan, Medicaid, a state or any other program, will not qualify for Hear Now service.

Several Fox River Grove Lionesses had a fun night out at the Smiling Shamrock at the Art Studio Center.

As a financially based program Hear Now considers income and assets for all those in the household.

Darien Lions Club welcomed seven new members last month. (l to r) Brian Dahowski, Sponsor Lion Rob Surrusco; Bruce Danielson, Sponsor Lion Art

All interested parties are advised to call Hear Now to discuss eligibility before completing an application for assistance. Not everyone will

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qualify for the program’s assistance so making this phone call is highly recommended.

The Tampico Lion’s Club gives out four $500 scholarships each year and this year the club received four essays so each student was able to receive a scholarship that applied. The following students each received $500: Ashley Cooney, Alex Wold, Jackson Bauer, and Megan Wetzel.

Hear Now works with local hearing healthcare providers throughout the US who volunteer their time and service to test, fit and follow up on the patient and their adjustment to the hearing aids. The applicant is responsible for finding a provider in his/her area to provide the professional services through the process.

The Tampico American Legion Post 574 gave out two $660 scholarships this year thanks to the Tampico American Legion Post 574 Olson/Pierson/Thompson Fund. This year the Legion received seven applications for these two scholarships. Those receiving the 2016 Tampico American Legion Post 574 Olson/Pierson Scholarships were Jonah Green and Jackson Heflin.

These students were given instructions with their scholarship certificates on what institution they will be attending to further their education as scholarships are paid directly to the school from Tampico American Legion Post 574.

There is an application processing fee of $125 per hearing requested. When an application is approved, aids are given to the applicant at no additional cost.

The hearing aids provided are Behind the Ear models and are new. Custom hearing aids are not provided by Hear Now. Please feel free to share this information with fellow colleagues and other professionals in your network.

To learn more about the program, or request materials for the program, call Hear Now at 800-328-8602.

Special “Thank You” to Dan Eyrich of the Website Aroundptown.com for taking the pictures this year!

“Alone we can’t do much, but together we can change the world.” William F. Austin TAMPICO LIONS CLUB AND TAMPICO AMERICAN LEGION POST 574 PRESENT SCHOLARSHIPS The Tampico Lions Club asked the seniors of the Prophetstown/Lyndon/Tampico High School to write on the subject, “Why do you feel the Lions Club in your community is a benefit to the area?”

In order to be considered for one of the four $500 scholarships.

(Picture Tampico Lions Scholarship recipients L-R: Ashley Cooney, Alex Wold, Jackson Bauer, and Megan Wetzell with Tampico Lions Secretary Lion Terry Gaskill presenting the scholarships in place of Lion President Ron Church who is to be contacted for scholarship information by calling 815-438-3442

The Tampico American Legion Post 574 also offered scholarship opportunities asking the senior students to write on the theme, “Should the United States consider allowing immigrants from other countries to enter the U.S. without a thorough investigation into their background? Could allowing immigrants and refugees to enter our country be detrimental to our country’s security?”

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Jones Award - both presented by Lion Club President Vince Daniello.

Picture - Tampico American Legion Post 574 Olson/Pierson Scholarship recipients L-R: Jonah Green and Jackson Heflin presented by Tampico American Legion Post 574 Finance Officer Terry Gaskill) Algonquin Lions Club annual club Installation Dinner for the new board.

The club also held a hanging basket flower sale for Mother's Day on Saturday, May 7. The event net $300 in profit to be used for donation to a cause yet to be determined.

Edward Benyas, Music Director of the 2016 Southern Illinois Music Festival, spoke to the Carbondale Lions Club on May 20. He talked about the following highlights of the May 27 to June 13 event. He outlined a unique performance of Rossini's last opera set in 1776; three orchestral concerts with music from 1776; chamber music from the New Arts Jazztet; klassics for kids and jive with jazz. He urged Lions Club members to attend some or all of the events and to invite their friends and neighbors. Information can be found at: www.SIFest.com.

Lion Adriaan Vrught was given a Life Membership

Award and Lion Brett Sandblom was given a Melvin

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The Christopher Lions Club recently hosted its annual officers installation night. PDG Larry McGuire was privileged to install the club's new officers and induct new members, Mark Cavindar and Steve Collier sponsored by Lion Geoffrey Troutt, and Scott Thomas, sponsored by Lion Chris Thomas. Club President Jim Turner was recognized with a plaque as Lion of the Year. The members' spouses were invited guests and a great meal along with enjoyable evening was enjoyed by all.

-----------------------------------------------------------------The New Athens Lions Club had their annual Diabetes Awareness day on Friday May the 6th.

The club had members donate their time in order to raise funds for Diabetes Awareness. The funds that were raised through this event were donated to the American Diabetes Association to fund diabetes research, and the club sponsored a candidate for the New Athens Homecoming Queen Contest. This contest and homecoming is sponsored by the New Athens Fire Department.

The funds raised from this contest helps the fire department to purchase items for the fire house.

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On June 2 and June 3, weather permitting; members will be applying a clear wood preservative sealer on the Town Square Pavilion.

Signup sheets are circulating. Media notices and advertising signs calling attention to this project are being considered.

President Boehne read a letter from Kathy Renfro, Executive Director of the Carbondale Park District, thanking the Lions of Carbondale Foundation for their donation of tables to the new Splash Park scheduled to open on May 28 in the Superblock.

The Foundation donated over $5000 to the Splash Park for these tables.

A Certificate of Appreciation will be sent to Aarons Appliance for donating a flat screen TV for our use during the spring Pancake Days.

Jim Morris of the Service Committee said that all donations for the fiscal year have been made. The Committee will be researching the minimum operating budget of the club in order to help determine how much money will be available to donate for the next fiscal year.

District 1A Governor Ralph Zarada Installing Newly Chartered Lincolnwood Lions Club Officers at Holiday Inn Banquet Hall, Itasca.

An Orientation and Leadership Conference for Lion's officers and interested members will be held on June 4 starting at 9 am at the Dunn-Richmond Center in Carbondale.

This is the third New Club chartered this year in District 1A. Other two were – Chicago Ridge Lions Club and Broadview Lions Club. New Lincolnwood Lions Club chartered with 25 new members to serve Lincolnwood community. Lion Naveed Ahmad is the President of this club, veteran lion Syed Wahaj is the Secretary and Mohammed Aslam is the Treasurer. First Lady Sakina

Applications for the David Kenney Award must be in by June 10, the vote will be taken on June 17 and the award made on a date when all participants are available.

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Ahmed is very active in organizing activities for this newly chartered club as she did for the Charter Nite.

Some new members and officers posing for a group picture after induction and installation.

A young centennial charter member of Lincolnwood Lions Club signing the charter.

Raja Krishnamoorthi who is running for US Congress was one of the attendees for the event.

Lion Ron Schammert from Sponsoring River Grove Lions Club presenting gong to new Charter President Naveed Ahmed.

After dinner attendees enjoyed musical program by India’s renowned artiste Shobha who recited Gazal (Poetry) with classical music.

Installing Officer PID Dan O’Reilly introduced 2 Guiding Lions – PDG Austin D’Souza and PZC Lourdes Mon and gave them Guiding Lion Pins.

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Some District 1A Leaders at the MD1 State Convention – I VDGE Pat Duda, First Lady Sue and Governor Ralph Zarada, First Lady Gail and Council Chair Steve Anton, DGE Ernie Lapid, CS Brenda Block and PDG Austin D’Souza.

Council Chair Steve Anton holding his final Council of Governors Meeting at the MD1 State Convention on Friday morning.

WOW! LOOK AT CONVENTION PICTURES! SEE WHAY YOU MISSED!

Top: Thursday night Hospital Room - Very casual Lion Dianne Corlew and Chancellor Bob Corlew. Above: PID Bud Wahl, Gov Charlie Siefert, PDG Bob Block, Chancellor Bob Corlew & behind PDG Mario Gumino

Theme: CIRCUS!!!

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Council of Governors honors Council Chair with Lions of Illinois Foundation Fellow recognition for his service for MD1.

Illinois State Replica signed by several lions during MD1 convention which was given to Corlews.

10 DGE’s of MD1 who selected me as the Editor of State e-Magazine. Now you know whom to blame! Picture was taken immediately after my interview.

Lions of Illinois Foundation trifold display at the MD1 Convention.

Friday night at the First Plenary Session amongst the crowd is none other than Convention Guest Chancellor Bob Corlew LCI I VP

Council of Governors and Guests at their Luncheon after Council Meeting.

Lions of Illinois Foundation Elections Meeting

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Convention Clowns at their best!

Lions in Hospitality Room looking at new member induction by Chancellor Bob Corlew. Far left is Lion Dianne Corlew in above picture.

Friday night First Plenary Session participants Partial crowd at the Saturday Luncheon

Magic Master Council Chair Elect Mark Williams and his wife Lion Maggie Williams.

PDG Harold Burkette, 1A GLT Chair, IPDG Terry D’Souza and Governor Ralph Zarada received Highest Membership Award, Ted Watts Extension Award and Ilinois Extension Award for bringing new clubs in MD1.

New Member Casie Jockisch (Middle) was inducted

by LCI First Vice President Chancellor Robert E. Corlew to District 1M. Far left is Casie’s handsome husband, a future Lion.

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Chancellor Bob Corlew answering questions from the crowd during Saturday Breakfast with Corlews. Lion Dianne also took active part in this memorable event.

Auctioneer PID Bud Wahl, Convention Chair Sharon Peska and IPCC Fred Peska helping the auction.

HERE THEY ENTER THE BANQUET HALL‌..

Partial crowd of Lions at Saturday Breakfast with Corlews.

Lions waiting to bid for Auction Baskets prior to Saturday night MD1 State Banquet.

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on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Illinois-LionsLionesses-Leos-799771336739277/ Copy above link and paste on your browser to click and see all pictures and videos.

Some IPDG’s with IPCC Fred Peska and CCE Mark Williams and their spouses.

Chancellor Bob Corlew looking at one of the gifts from CC Steve – a book to read during travel.

First Lady Gail Anton thanking everyone for their support and cooperation in making this lionistic year a successful one.

Governors at the head table and Governor Elects at the lower head table at the State Banquet Dinner.

Council Chair held a Centennial Celebration Kick-off event at the MD1 Convention. All participants were holding a Lions100 placard and shouting ‘ROAR.’ It was a great fun to see the lions holding these placards and shouting with one voice – ROAR. PID Bud is holding number 1 and Corlews are holding two zeros making it to 100. You can see all these and other 1,300+ pictures

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PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS AT THE BANQUET:

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PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS AT THE BANQUET: 35

Chancellor Bob Corlew playing ringing the wine bottle in Hospitality Room.

LIONS OF ILLINOIS FOUNDATION ANNUAL BREAKFAST AT THE MD1 CONVENTION

PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS AT THE BANQUET: 36

with Lions of Illinois Eye Research Institute. He said that LIERI Lions Club will grow with new members and continue their mission with the help of Lions of Illinois.

Lions of Illinois Foundation Executive Director PDG Mario Gumino addressing LIF Annual Breakfast Meeting.

Lion Jim Kiser from Darien Lions Club receiving highest Candy Day Contribution Award from LIF. LIONS OF ILLINOIS FOUNDATION AWARDS:

International Vice President Chancellor Bob Corlew speaking to LIF Breakfast attendees.

Dr. Mark I. Rosenblatt, MD, PhD, MBA, Professor & Department Head, Department of Opthalmology & Visual Services, University of Illinois at Chicago pledged to renew old Lions of Illinois friendship 37

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Lions of Illinois Foundation Senior and Junior Trustees at the Dais for Annual Breakfast Meeting on Sunday.

Lion Jama & PID Bud Wahl

Lion Dianne Corlew and Lion Jama Below: PDG Austin D’Souza and PID Dan O’Reilly

Wahl

PID Russ and Sue Sarver. Below: Lion Sue Sarver and ZC Gail Anton.

MD1 State e-Magazine Edited & Published by PDG Austin D’Souza for 39 Address: ILStateEditor@gmail.com Lions, Lionesses and Leos of Illinois. e-Mail