State magazine full january, 2015

The Illinois Lion Lioness Leo MD1 e-Magazine

Vol. 2 - Issue 7

January 2015

Full Edition

f Edition f Edition

Chicago Filipino American Lions Club Inducted 13 New Members in December During their 10 th Charter Nite Celebrations Held at Chevy Chase Country Club in Wheeling on December 5, 2014

Council Chair Speaks: HAPPY

NEW

I anticipate the first half of 2015 to be the same, with the District Governors continuing “To Do The Right Thing’’ and I am proud to be a part of them!

YEAR!

Looking forward to the second half, CC Fred Peska diamondp@mchsi.com

Editorial:

Looking into the future of MD 1, I see great things happening. I see our leadership and membership increasingly getting stronger. With the Council of Governors approving funding for another RLLI, another leadership summit at the Jan. 31st Council meeting, and another MD 1 Forum, we will only improve.

Christmas Day came and gone.

All that preparation since September in business world of shopping disappeared. All those huge sales vanished as shoppers lost money from their wallets and filled business bank accounts. Now we are waiting for New Year’s Eve to celebrate another big day of savoring alcohol and watching fire crackers all over the world.

“Do The Right Thing” is not just their motto; it is what they are Doing!

The best thing Lions can invest in is our future leaders and providing the training that will make them the best possible leaders they can be. Good, trained, and informed leaders will attract more members.

With the Governor’s goal of having all the clubs in MD 1 complete the CEP, it will make our membership stronger and more involved in their club and district. Although we may not see the benefits of this right away in MD 1, I think we are already seeing some success in a few Districts. As time allows for the training to be realized by others we will see more and more success. The ground work is being laid for future Councils to build upon!

In a lionistic world we completed two quarters and we are at half time; two more quarters remaining to complete our year 2014-2015. Many governors exceeded their committed goals and looking forward to receive couple more Golden Thaws from International President Joe Preston. I wish nothing but best to these governors to shine in their districts by leaving a golden legacy for future lionistic work.

Now we are looking forward for our upcoming lionistic year – 2015-2016. State Secretary Lion Michelle already sent me notices to be published in this magazine to apply for Council Chair and rest of chairpersonships in MD1. If you are interested in serving MD1, look at this notice and place your name in the ring. If your club has any resolution to be presented at forthcoming MD1 State Convention, this is the time to do so.

The 2014/2015 Council has accomplished many things in the last half of 2014, in their own Districts and also for the Lions of Illinois. At their cabinet meetings they take care of business for their district. At the MD1 Council meetings each Governor makes decisions based on the good of all Lions in MD1.

I know most Lions are procrastinators – waiting for the last minute; however, come on forward and show your leadership to our State of Illinois Lions.

-Austin D’Souza, Ph.D., Editor, ILStateEditor@mail.com 2

Action: Motion Passed

COUNCIL OF GOVERNORS MEETINGS:

Motion: To accept the Minutes of the electronic vote of May 21-22, 2014 appointing Lion Jama Wahl as the 2014 MD-1 Forum Chairperson.

JULY 5, 2014

Action: Motion Passed

SHERATON HOTEL, TORONTO, CANADA:

Motion: To re-affirm the Athens State Bank as the 2014-2015 depository banks and to establish the signatories.

Motion: To allow 1st Vice District Governor Ralph Zarada (1-A) to represent District Governor Terry D’Souza (1-A) during the July 5, 2014 Council of Governors meeting.

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To table the matter of funding the Residual Fund until the August 16, 2014 Council meeting.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To re-affirm the 2014-2015 Council’s selections of State Standing Committee Chairpersons.

Motion: To approve reimbursement as per LCI’s Rules of Audit.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To re-affirm the 2014-2015 Council of Governors Executive Committee and selection of other Council Officers.

Motion: To adopt the Policy Manual as adopted by the 2012-2013 Council of Governors.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To re-affirm the 2014-2015 Council’s appointments of Liaison Governors to State Standing Committees.

Motion: To uphold the provisions of Article III, Section 1 of the MD-1 By-Laws and Section 3.7, subsection “Long Range Planning Committee” of the February 9, 2013 edition of the Policy Manual.

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To hold the February 2015 Council meeting on January 31, 2015 at the Parke Regency hotel in Bloomington, Illinois.

Motion: To retain Lion Steve Frankenstein, IPDG as head of the Building Sale Committee and to appoint Vice Council Chairperson Governor Chris Halsey (1-J) and Governor Steve Willett (1-F) to serve on the committee.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To hold the 2014 MD-1 Forum at the Parke Regency hotel in Bloomington, Illinois.

Motion: To table the matter of establishing an A/V Committee until the August 16, 2014 Council meeting.

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To hold the 2015 MD-1 State Convention at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Springfield, Illinois contingent upon the State Convention Committee succeeding in negotiating better pricing for the hospitality rooms.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

AUGUST 16, 2014

Motion: To adjourn the July 5, 2014 Council of Governors meeting.

Action: Motion Passed

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PARKE REGENCY HOTEL, BLOOMINGTON, ILLINOIS

Motion: To initially fund the Residual Fund in the amount of $30,000. Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To accept as presented the Minutes of 2013-2014 Fifth Council of Governors Meeting.

Motion: To direct the PR/Publicity Committee to pursue the ICE kit program. Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To accept as presented the Minutes of the 2014 State Convention First Plenary Session.

Motion: To accept as presented the 2014 Regional Lions Leadership Institute proposed agenda and budget.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To accept as presented the Minutes of the 2014 State Convention Closing Plenary Session.

Motion: To accept as presented the 2014 MD-1 Forum proposed agenda and budget.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To accept as presented the Minutes of the 2014-2015 First Council of Governors Meeting.

Motion: To approve a registration fee of $25 per person for the 2014 MD-1 Forum.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To accept as presented the Minutes of the July 27-30, 2014 Electronic Council of Governors Meeting allowing Governor Mark Williams (1-BK) to wear a black bowtie during all 2014-2015 Council meetings as part of his “official” uniform and allowing Governor Buzz Melton (1-H) to wear black dress shorts during all 2014-2015 Council meetings as part of his “official uniform.

Motion: To approve holding a live auction at the 2014 MD-1 Forum.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To accept as presented the 2013-2014 Draft Audit Report.

Motion: To re-affirm the 2015 State Convention dates of May 14-17, 2015.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To accept as presented the Financial Statements for the period ending July 31, 2014.

Motion: To approve the Bloomington-Normal Marriott as the site of the 2015 State Convention.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To re-affirm the establishment of the Residual Fund.

Motion: To accept as presented the 2015 State Convention registration fee structure of $10.00 per person for those who pre-register and purchase at least one meal, $15.00 per person for those who pre-register but do not purchase a meal, and $20.00 per person for those who do not preregister.

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To allow the 1st and 2nd Vice District Governors to have a voice during the August 16, 2014 Council meeting.

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To accept as presented the 2014-2015 Proposed Budget.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed 4

Motion: To accept as presented the 2015 State Convention proposed agenda and budget.

Motion: To accept as presented the 2015 State Convention book ad prices of $30 for a ½ page ad and $50 for a full page ad.

Motion: To re-allocate $5,000 from the 2015 International Convention Fund budget that would otherwise have been used to hold an MD-1 reception at the 2015 International Convention to the 2017 International Convention Fund to help the 2017 International Convention Fund reach its financial goal.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To authorize the State Office to invoice each Sub-District a pro rata share of the actual Dram Shop insurance cost for the 2015 State Convention.

Motion: To accept as presented all State Standing Committee Chairperson reports.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To authorize and direct Lion Steve Frankenstein, IPDG (Building Sale Committee Chairperson) to submit a counter-offer of $200,000 with no contingencies to the prospective buyer.

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To authorize Council Chairperson Fred Peska to contact International Director Karla Harris (WI) regarding her availability to be the guest speaker for the MD-1 2015 State Convention.

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To amend the Policy Manual to include the proposed Electronic Meeting section.

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To form an ad hoc committee to research and propose an MD-1 International Parade Uniform for Council years 2015 through 2017.

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To establish a virtual Lions of Illinois State Office on a trial basis.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To approve hot “safety” pink hats for the Sergeant-at-Arms uniforms for 2015 State Convention.

Council informally agreed to prepare and provide a list of A/V equipment to the State Office.

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To approve the President Abraham Lincoln hotel in Springfield, Illinois as the 2014-2015 Council’s first choice for the site of the 2016 and 2017 State Conventions.

Motion: To authorize the State Office to invoice each District $54.00 for the cost of the 2015 State Convention hospitality room rental fees.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To approve the Bloomington-Normal Marriott hotel in Normal, Illinois as the 2014-2015 Council’s second choice for the site of the 2016 and 2017 State Conventions.

Motion: To hold a “Leader Dog for the Blind” seminar at the 2015 State Convention.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To hold “What Is LCI Up To?” and “Lions Clubs Having Fun” seminars at the 2015 State Convention.

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To authorize Council Chairperson Fred Peska and State Secretary-Treasurer Michele Faires to negotiate contract terms with the President 5

Action: Motion Passed

Abraham Lincoln hotel and, if necessary, the Bloomington- Normal Marriott hotel for the 2016 and 2017 State Conventions.

Motion: To donate the August 16, 2014 Council of Governors meeting Tail Twisting fines to Leader Dog for the Blind.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To direct the Constitution and By-Laws Committee to review the Constitution and By-Laws and Policy Manual and propose revisions with respect to the State Convention site selection process and the State Secretary-Treasurer’s duties regarding State Convention.

Motion: To adjourn the August 16, 2014 Council of Governors meeting.

Action: Motion Passed AUGUST 18-28, 2014 Meeting

Action: Motion Passed

Via Electronic Mail:

Motion: To endorse Lion Naresh Aggarwal, PID (India) for the position of 2015 2nd International Vice

Motion: To authorize Council Chairperson Fred Peska and State Secretary-Treasurer Michele Faires to execute contracts with the President Abraham Lincoln hotel in Springfield, Illinois for the 2016 and 2017 State Conventions.

President.

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To endorse Lion Walter “Bud” Wahl, PID (MD-1) for the position of 2016 2nd International

Action: Motion Passed

Vice President.

Motion: To authorize 1st and 2nd Vice District Governors to be reimbursed mileage costs up to a maximum of $50 when they attend 2014-2015 Council of Governors meetings.

Action: Motion Passed Council Directives: MD-1 to work more as a unit instead of individual sub-districts; zone chairs to look for the red flags of weak clubs and/or leaders and act immediately when the flags are noted; State Standing Committee Chairpersons are to notify the Governors of any committee members who are not performing; and the Long Range Planning and Finance committees are to work together to prepare a plan for using the Residual Fund monies for education.

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To authorize the Lions of Illinois State Office to invoice the Sub-Districts $1.75 for each 2014-2015 State pin and $1.25 for each stick pin and charm ordered by the Sub-Districts and up to 25 complimentary State pins for the District Governors, and a pro-rata share of the cost to provide up to 25 complimentary State pins to the International Director and Past International Directors who wish to receive them.

Motion: To establish the State Secretary-Treasurer as the Lions of Illinois Registered Agent with the Illinois Secretary of State’s office.

Action: Motion Passe d

Action: Motion Passed

SUMMARY OF ACTIONS TAKEN 2014-2015 COUNCIL OF GOVERNORS

Motion: To direct the Constitution and By-Laws committee to draft a Resolution to remove the phrase “All regulatory reports shall also be performed by a third party accounting…” from the MD-1 Constitution Article IX, Section 6.

AUGUST 21 – September 7, 2014 Meeting Via Electronic Mail:

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Motion: To authorize Lions of Illinois, Inc. to pay the cost to purchase 200 vests for the 2017 International Convention Host Committee to sell and reimburse the Lions of Illinois, Inc. from the vest sale proceeds.

District Governors for their 1st Vice District Governors to hand out at the 2015 International Convention parade.

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To adjourn the October 26, 2014 Council of Governors teleconference meeting. Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

SUMMARY OF ACTIONS TAKEN 2014-2015 COUNCIL OF GOVERNORS: OCTOBER 12-14, 2014 Meeting

SUMMARY OF ACTIONS TAKEN 2014-2015 COUNCIL OF GOVERNORS

Via Electronic Mail

OCTOBER 28-30, 2014 Meeting:

Motion: To authorize and direct Lion Steve Frankenstein, IPDG (Building Sale Committee Chairperson) to submit a counter-offer with a purchase price of $185,000 for the Lions of Illinois real property and the terms of no inspections and for the closing to be held in 30 days.

Via Electronic Mail Motion: To hire a temporary assistant to help with filing and saving records at the Lions of Illinois State Office.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed OCTOBER 26, 2014 Meeting

2014-2015 COUNCIL OF GOVERNORS MEETING NOVEMBER 8, 2014:

Via Conference Call

PARKE REGENCY HOTEL, BLOOMINGTON, ILLINOIS

Motion: To sell the Lions of Illinois State Office’s furniture, tables, and chairs via a “garage sale.”

Motion: To rent a storage unit in Athens, Illinois for storage of the Lions of Illinois State Office items.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To auction the Lions of Illinois State Office’s decorative wall art and State Pin collections at the 2015 State Convention.

Motion: To re-affirm the 2014-2015 Council of Governors’ decision to hire a temporary assistant to help with filing and saving records at the Lions of Illinois State Office.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To return the paving bricks and other SubDistrict specific items to their respective Sub- Districts.

Motion: To establish a Building Sale Fund at Athens State Bank to deposit the proceeds from the sale of the Lions of Illinois State Office land and building.

Action: Motion Passed

Action: Motion Passed

Motion: To place into storage or destroy, as appropriate or necessary, the remainder of the items in the Lions of Illinois State Office.

Motion: To appoint Lion Lydia Ellis, IPCC to the position of MD-1 Midwest Breakfast Chairperson for the 2014-2015 Council year and to direct Lion Bud Wahl, PID, Constitution and By-Laws Committee Chairperson to develop the policy for the Midwest

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To divide the old State Pins in the Lions of Illinois State Office and give them to the 2014- 2015

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Breakfast Chairperson position to be incorporated into the Policy Manual.

hance the quality of training and overall effectiveness of Lions leadership development programs.

Action: Motion Passed

Qualified candidates are those Lions who have some experience as faculty members at Lions training events, have demonstrated basic instructional skills, and have a keen interest in further developing those skills. Lions with extensive experience as Lions faculty or as professional trainers are not recommended for this institute, but are welcome to apply.

SUMMARY OF ACTIONS TAKEN 2014-2015 COUNCIL OF GOVERNORS NOVEMBER 30, 2014 Meeting: Via Conference Call Motion: To request the Finance Committee to provide the 2014-2015 Council of Governors with the committee’s recommendations regarding the disposition of the Lions of Illinois State Office building sale proceeds by December 6, 2014.

Lions participating in this four-day course will be required to conduct a training event within 6 (six) months of the institute, in order to be considered a graduate of the FDI program.”

Action: Motion Passed

Applications will be made available in the near future on the LCI website. Lions Clubs International will provide meals and lodging according to the schedule of the institute. Please note that a nonrefundable participation fee of US$95.00 will be required to offset these costs for all institutes. Participants are also responsible to pay for their own transportation and related travel expenses to and from the institute site.”

Motion: To request the Constitution and By-Laws Committee to draft the 2014-2015 Council of Governors’ proposed resolution and present it to the Council with the Committee’s recommendation by the December 6, 2014 Council meeting.

Action: Motion Passed Motion: To adjourn the November 30, 2014 Council of Governors teleconference meeting.

Action: Motion Passed

Questions can be directed to the Leadership Division of LCI.

LEADERSHIP CORNER:

-Lion Jama Wahl, MD1 GLT Chairperson

Lions Clubs International has recently announced that a Faculty Development Institute has been approved by the International Board for Constitutional Areas 1 and 2, which includes the Unites States and Canada. The institute will take place in the Oak Brook area, May 31-June 3, 2015. There will be a total of forty Englishspeaking applicants accepted.

jamawahl@yahoo.com

MEMBERSHIP CORNER: Are You Thankful?

We have passed a number of milestones within the past few weeks: Thanksgiving Day, the pre-Black Friday shopping on Thanksgiving Day, Black Friday, Shop Small Saturday and Cyber Monday. Phew! I hope you all survived. That means that Christmas can’t be too far away. By the time you read this article, it may well have already come. After Christmas the stores will begin displaying the new

As noted on the LCI website, “The Faculty Development Institute is dedicated to the development and expansion of Lions faculty. The curriculum focuses on techniques and concepts that will en8

FROM MD1 ALERT CHAIR:

Spring Fashions, or at least we expect that kind of pre-seasonal “rush” by the stores.

Greetings Winter Readers, There is something that some people do this time of year: New Year’s Resolutions. Do you get involved in making such “promises” for yourself?

Some resolve to lose weight (after all of those Holiday Meals and treats), spend more time with aging parents, volunteer to do something good (Lions know about this), be a better person and many other options.

I hope you all have survived the many parties and activities that just occurred. I bet they were a success if you hosted them because you planned them well.

Even though we have not been hit with the big snow or some nasty cold yet, we are planning on it to come anyway. So what do we do about it? We dig our winter coats out, boots and so on. We are ready for when it comes. This all plays the same with Lions Alert. We know it may happen one day, when is the question. How many of us are prepared for it. If we do anything at all and that is put a good plan down on paper, we have started something.

Is your Club going to make any resolutions? It can.

Maybe it should. What could a Lions Club resolve to do in 2015? Here are a few suggestions: 1. Help at least one more person in 2015 than we did in 2014, even more if possible.

2. Raise at least one more dollar, through fundraisers, next year than we did this year.

3. Do a better job of publicizing what our Club does or is doing in our community.

My New Year’s challenge to you, get a plan on a piece of paper. You have started something and it will be more than what you had in 2014.

These all make sense. They are what we as Lions should be doing. But there is another resolution your Club could make: Get at least one new member so we finish the 2014-2015 year with a net gain in membership. Think about it. With one additional member it would be easier for your Club to help at least one more person in 2015 and raise at least one more dollar than last year. With those results you will want to do a better job on the publicity front. You will want your community to know what you are doing.

-Lion Jim Kiser, State Alert Chairman LIonJimKiser@gmail.com 630-660-7944 to change it, shovel, jumper cables and a bag of salt or kitty litter. This list is much longer and if you want to see the rest of it, go to the Lions of Illinois website http://www.illinoislionsmd1.org/ click on the round button “Bulletin Alerts” and then on the left click on the ALERT folder.

So when you are out shopping for Christmas gifts, don’t forget to pick up some new flashlights with fresh batteries. One last thought, do you have a carbon monoxide alarm in your place of residence.

If you don’t, consider getting a couple for different locations. If you do have them, check them out to see how old they are. They have a life expectancy just like milk.

Go ahead and make your personal resolutions.

While you’re at it, get your Club to make a few resolutions as well. You have a total of four suggestions above. Use them all. Be sure to include the fourth. It will really help your Club.

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

Have a great Christmas, Happy New Year and be safe traveling.

-Lion Jim Kiser, MD1 Alert Chair LionJimKiser@gmail.com 9

1. Re-establishing contact with those Lions that are on the current membership roster 2. Keeping the Lions of the State aware of the progress as well as inviting new members 3. Hopefully being able to schedule a General Membership Meeting sometime during the Lions of Illinois State Convention in 2015.

LIONS OF ILLINOIS PIN TRADERS: The Lions of Illinois Pin Traders’ Association will be starting the process of re-organization this coming Spring. Over the years, the association offered a media for the Lions that like to learn more about trading the friendship pins as well as meeting others that have a similar interest throughout the State and within our global association. For a number of reasons, the association has become inactive and now, work will begin with the current association’s officers and members in getting the association active once again.

The process will be slow, but the re-establishment of the association will offer another means for the Lions of the State to be an active member of this great Multiple District. If there is any interest in getting involved or learning more, please feel free to contact PDG Robert Block at gov8990@aol.com.

As the process begins, the following steps will be taken:

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If you would like to order a vest and have it sent to you. Please fill out this form and mail it along with your check to: Lion Robert Block, PDG

615 205th Place Dyer, IN 46311 Makes check payable to: 2017 Lions Host Committee Name __________________________________________ size __________ Mailing Address _______________________________________________ Number of Vest __________ each per vest $32.00 including shipping

IMPORTANT NOTICE Persons interested in the position of Chairperson of the Council of Goverthe 2015-2016 Lions year are being sought.

nors for

To be eligible, a candidate must be a Past District Governor, having served as an MD-1 Governor within the previous five Council years (2010-2011, 2011-2012, 2012-2013, 2013-2014, 2014-2015) or be a sitting Governor on the 2015-2016 Council. The Council Chairperson for 2015-2016 also must be from a District other than the current Chairperson’s District (District 1-D). More information regarding eligibility is available at www.LionsClubs.org.

The duties and responsibilities of the Council Chairperson are detailed in the Lions of Illinois Constitution and By-Laws and the Policy Manual, both of which are posted on the MD-1 website, www.illinoislionsMD1.org.

Candidates must send a letter of intent and a resume to the State Office to be received no later than March 31, 2015 in order to be considered for the position. The mailing and e-mail address for the State Office is listed below. Applicants will be advised by mail or e-mail of the time of their interview.

LIONS OF ILLINOIS, INC. POB 107 CANTRALL, IL 62625-0107 lionsofillinois@yahoo.com

Post Office Box 107

Cantrall, IL 62625-0107

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ph 217-632-7775

lionsofillinois@yahoo.com

IMPORTANT NOTICE Applications for State Committee Chairperson for the 2015-2016 Lions year are being accepted.

To be eligible, a candidate shall have served at least one year as a district appointee to the State Committee s/he seeks. This requirement may be waived by the District Governors Elect if no application is received with the appropriate requirements or if they are not in favor of any applicant.

Positions are for a one year term. A brief description of the duties and responsibilities of each State Committee Chairperson may be found in the Lions of Illinois Policy Manual, which is posted on the MD-1 website, www.illinoislionsMD1.org, along with a list of the current State Committee Chairpersons.

Candidates must send a letter of intent specifying the State Committee Chairperson position being sought and a resume to the State Office, which is to be received no later than March 31, 2015 in order to be considered for the position. The mailing and e-mail address for the State Office is listed below. Applicants will be advised by mail or e-mail of the time of their interview.

Applications are being accepted for the following State Committee Chairperson positions:

Alert

Lioness Campaign & Liaison

Lions Eye Health Program (LEHP)

Constitution & By-Laws

Midwest Breakfast

Information Technology

Publicity & Public Relations

International Convention

State Convention

Leo & Youth Activities/Quest State Magazine Applications also are being accepted for a Finance Committee member. Please submit letters of intent and resumes to:

LIONS OF ILLINOIS, INC. POB 107 CANTRALL, IL 62625-0107 lionsofillinois@yahoo.com

Post Office Box 107

Cantrall, IL 62625-0107

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ph 217-632-7775

lionsofillinois@yahoo.com

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Please make a year-end, tax-deductible donation to help train more Leader Dogs for people who are blind in 2015.

Dear Lion, Lioness & Leo, Leader Dogs for the Blind just launched ourHoliday Fund Drive. Now, we hope to raise $175,595 by December 31. And I’m counting onyour support.

There are hundreds of people hoping to receive their own Leader Dog in 2015.

Your gift will help ensure their dreams come true.

During 2014, we provided 180 Leader Dogs to people who are blind. But we didn’t charge a dime — not for the dog, the training, or any other part of our program (and we receive no government money either!). Instead, Leader Dogs are available to all people — regardless of their ability to pay — thanks to kindhearted friends like you.

Now I hope you’ll rise to the occasion again. Please help us reach our Holiday Fund Drive goal of $175,595. Make your generous gift now.

Gratefully,

Susan M. Daniels 15

President and CEO P.S.

When you support our Holiday Fund Drive, your name will be displayed on a Holiday Gift Tag in our Leader Dog lobby — right where our staff, volunteers and friends will see it. Thank you!

Holiday Fund Drive Support Leader Dog’s Holiday Fund Drive. Your name will be displayed on a Gift Tag in our lobby. And you will help make the dreams of someone who is blind come true.

Q: What are the greatest challenges of losing your vision?

A: “I’ve run into doors, tables, windows, trees and other things in my path. I have walked off curbs and fallen down stairs, and sustained a variety of injuries, including cuts and bruises to my legs and face, broken ankles and a dislocated shoulder . . . As my vision receded, so did my confidence, my outgoing spirit, my freedom and my independence.”

Q: How did your Leader Dog, Sophie, change your life?

A: “Sophie is amazing. I adore her, she adores me. She leads me, I follow her. I feed and brush her and she repays me with warm snuggles and wet kisses . . .

She’s given me back a sense of confidence, freedom and safety which I had gradually lost. Now I can walk with my head up and enjoy the surrounding environment. The world does not seem as dangerous.”

When you support Leader Dogs for the Blind, your support transforms lives.

Please support our Holiday Fund Drive today.

1039 S. Rochester Rd. | Rochester Hills, MI 48307 | leaderdog.org

Georgetown Lions Club Invites You To

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF SERVICE SATURDAY, JANUARY 24, 2015 6:00 P.M. 16

CHURCH OF CHRIST COMMUNITY BUILDING 503 NORTH MAIN STREET GEORGETOWN, IL

Prepaid reservations are requested. $18.00 for one or $35.00 for two.

Please send your reservations and check for the meals made payable to the Georgetown Lions Club

by January 5, 2015 To Lion Linda Hall, 201 West South 2nd Street, Georgetown, IL 61846 Dinner Buffet Includes: Swiss Steak, Grilled Chicken, Green Beans, Cheesy Potatoes, Layered Lettuce Salad, Roll and Butter; Ice Tea, Lemonade, Coffee and Cheese Cake for Dessert.

Come and join us to celebrate our Lions Clubs Founder Melvin Jones’ 136th Birthday on January 11, 2015 at the Four Points by Sheraton Chicago – Mannheim & Irving Park Road Program will start at 12 Noon and end at 4:00 p.m.

DJ’s Live Music, Dance, Live Singing and Entertainment by Folklore Latin Dancers!

Chicago’s Famous

There will be table wine for dinner (Soup, Salad and Beef & Chicken) 17

Bring your Melvin Jones Plaque for the Program for a Group Photograph Make your checks payable to: The Forest Kala Sampath Lions Club & Mail To: Lion Austin D’Souza, 906 Dunlop Avenue, Forest Park, IL 60130-2059 sored by the Loraine Lions Club the first Saturday of each month September through May at Unity High School in Mendon, Illinois. Lions Clubs are a service organization whose motto is "We Serve."

Chicago Jefferson Park Lions Hearing Aid Project: I have been in contact with the Senior Assistance Center in Norridge. The director reached out to me about a client needing new hearing aids, Peter Baker. He was unable to enjoy his old activities or converse over the phone because his old hearing aids no longer worked. I obtained a list of hearing services and after seeing that a pair of new hearing aids would cost $500, our club decided to reach out for help covering the cost.

The Monmouth Evening Lions Club recently donated $500 to the Christmas basket fund of the United High School Fellowship of Christian Athletes. The 80 plus members of the United FCA will be providing eleven local families with Christmas presents, clothing, and food baskets. The gift from the Lions is enabling the group to double their efforts to help those in the community during the Christmas season.

Since Mr. Baker lives in Norridge, we contacted the two nearest clubs, Mont Clare-Elmwood Park and River Grove. They were very generous-we received a $200 donation from each club. Our club paid the remainder and we sent in the hearing aid forms to the Foundation.

Presenting the check to the United FCA is Monmouth Evening Lions Club treasurer, Leon Martin (far right). FCA members are (L to R) Alexander Davis, Ashleigh Brown, Kelsie Lucas, Maddie Ballard, Emily Forget, Chase Charnes, and Gary Wynne.

Lion Johnny Anderson, Past District Governor and treasurer of the Loraine Lions Club presented a check to Betty Allen, director of the Community for Christ Assistance Center. The funds were raised through the Crossroad Country Opry Show spon-

Unfortunately I found out that Mr. Baker's Medicare would not cover the cost of his hearing exam and testing. I reached out to Millie Koller in Open Areas, and she gladly covered the remaining cost.

Mr. Baker is scheduled for an appointment at UIC in a couple weeks- all of his costs are completely covered. He relayed to the Senior Center that he is very happy and grateful to the Lions for our help.

The Senior Center director keeps me posted- I am hoping to hear that Mr. Baker will be back to playing cards with his friends again soon!

-Lion Candace

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build the park. The playground is constructed with all recyclable plastic.

The Oswego Lions Club would like to thank the Oswego community & friends from outside Oswego for supporting our 8th annual Ham Dinner on October 26. As usual, all proceeds will benefit vision and hearing services. The attached photo shows Lions Bob and Peg Schulte serving ham and Au Gratin potatoes to our guests.

Crete Lion PDG Bob Johnson presents check to Patricia Polzin, Crete Park district director for the newly built Lions Park in Crete.

Crete Park District's Masquerade Parade held on Saturday Oct 25th along their bike path. Crete Lions Club participated by passing out candy along the trail.

Pictured back row with vest Sandy Smigel, Peter Caldwell and his daughter Therese. Front row: (l-rt) Owen Klemp, Mikenna Burdick, Brooklynn Burdick,with brother Shelton, Jacob Klemp, and mom Jacylin Klemp* Lion Bob and Patricia Polzin are cutting the ribbon to Crete Lions Park.

The Crete Lions donated half of the $150,000 to

Hardscrabble Lions members pictured (from left to right) include: Chad, Dax and Nicole Irving, Patty and Mark Ferguson, Donna Mikolajczyk, Addy Irving, Beth Cravatta, Karen Ranger, Jama and Bud Wahl Olmsted)., and Karen Dzurison (not pictured Jim and Barb)

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ners offered to anyone who needs any one reason to enjoy it!

Waterloo

deliveries

72

Columbia

deliveries

5

Valmeyer

deliveries

21

Carry

outs

71

Those who ate in the cafeteria were around 125.

So we served a total of around 290 people FREE. The most we have ever served dinners to.

Our carry outs were the highest they’ve ever been.

We appreciate the help from all volunteers in the community, as well as our friends in the Valmeyer Lions Club & the Waterloo Lions Club.

We also would like to thank Jeff & Denise Vogt for baking our turkeys and other food items they donated.

Schnucks for monetary help and the St. Peter & Paul Catholic grade school for donations of pies and the use of their cafeteria. This is a wonderful service that is greatly appreciated by so many in our neighboring communities. This is another Lions “We Serve “event that we hope can continue for many more years.

Romeoville Lions shopped for and then delivered 13 Thanksgiving Dinners to families in need within town.

Our “Share the Feast” dinner at St Peter and Paul cafeteria on Thanksgiving Day was a success once again. Here are numbers for our Thanksgiving Day Share the Feast dinner. These are free turkey din21

The Waterloo Lions Club entered a tree, as a sponsor, at Oak Hill Nursing Home. It just so happened Lion Don Dietz (L) was dining while our Club's District Governor, Sandy Newsome helped decorate the tree. Notice the Beautiful Lion Ornaments made by Lions Ruth Ann Mueller and Sarah Karban

and the tree topper donated by Lion Deb Augustine. Our tree won third place (bragging rights only) but that is A-Okay. We got a lot of publicity out of it and sometimes that's all you need is to get yourself out there. We have a lot of new members, just by getting ourselves more public.

In addition to Spirk, honored for 30 years as a member, Halsey presented membership awards to Cal Thelin, Aurora, 55 years; Herb Steinmetz, Sugar Grove, 35 years; Bill Poss, Aurora, 25 years; Doug Needham, Plainfield, 20 years; and David Fitzgerald, Aurora, 15 years.

Additionally, the Aurora Noon club was awarded a patch for membership development. The Aurora Noon Lions Club meets on the first and third Mondays of the month at Luigi’s Pizza, 732 Prairie St. in Aurora.

Lauding Lion—Oswego's Jimmie Delgado, right, was awarded the Aurora Noon Lions Club’s 2014 Distinguished Service award Thursday, Nov. 20, at Two Brothers Brewing Co. in Aurora.

Left is Michelle Needham, Plainfield, co-president of Aurora Noon Lions, who presented Delgado's award. The presentation highlighted the club’s annual charter night dinner celebrating the club's 92nd anniversary.

Meeting Santa--Oswego's Jimmie Delgado, background, was among Aurora Noon Lions Club members who sponsored a sixth annual pizza party and gifts from a sign-language Santa for deaf and hearing-impaired kids Wednesday, Dec. 17. From left are Santa, Dan Basalone of Lisle, who used American Sign Language to talk to kids; Delgado; Kevyn Contreras, 1, Aurora; and Aaron Contreras, Aurora, Kevyn's dad. Accompanied by 50 teachers, parents and caregivers, about 50 students from East and West Aurora public school districts attended the party at Luigi's Pizza in Aurora.

Michelle Needham, Plainfield, co-president of Aurora Noon Lions, presented Delgado's award.

The presentation highlighted the club’s annual charter night dinner celebrating the club's 92nd anniversary. An Aurora Noon Lion since 2006, Delgado became club treasurer in 2007. He serves as controller for Fox Metro Water Reclamation District in Oswego. Delgado graduate from Aurora University in 2005 and Waubonsie Community College in 2003.

Needham praised Delgado for handling the club's finances. Sugar Grove resident Gerald Spirk was presented an appreciation award for serving as president from 2011 to 2014. Spirk, a Lion since 1984, was among six members recognized for service by special guest Chris Halsey, an Elburn Lion and Governor for Lions District 1-J. 22

Signing Santa--Santa, Don Basalone of Lisle, left, used American Sign Language to talk to deaf and hearing impaired pupils at Luigi's Pizza in Aurora Wednesday, Dec. 17. From left are Basalone, Kristina Neville, primary hearing impaired teacher, Schneider Elementary School, North Aurora; Angeles Valles, 11, Aurora; and Joel Valles, 6, Aurora. The Aurora Noon Lions Club sponsored the sixth annual pizza party and gift giveaway. Accompanied by 50 teachers, parents and caregivers, 50 students from East and West Aurora public school districts attended.

Members of the Chicago Philippine Lions Club which will be celebrating their 40 th anniversary on April 3rd and II VP Bob Corlew as their Chief Guest.

PDG Austin inducted 3 new members to their club.

District 1A Governor Terry D’Souza and her husband PDG Austin at Chicago Philippine Lions Clubs Christmas Party at Dr. Dinesh Jain’s residence in Orland Park.

Chicago Mexica Lions Celebrated their Christmas Party at Porretta’s Elegant Banquets in Chicago Lion Bob Duda entertained the crowd with his singing in English, Spanish and Italian.

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Some Lions celebrated Christmas with a Tequila shot!

Some Lions at Chicago Mayfair Lions Christmas Party at Georg-Judy Tofts residence.

Melvin Jones would have been 136 years old on January 13, 2015 if he was alive.

Chicago Mayfair Lions Clubs New Member FRANCESCA P. DIGIOVANNI displays her Membership Certificate with pride. Right PCC Georg Toft and far left 1A Gov Terry D’Souza.

The Forest Kala Sampath Lions Club members celebrated Christmas on Christmas Eve. Some of the members are in the picture.

Carl Sandburg High School Madrigal Singers. Directed

by Amanda Sirvatka at District 1A Christmas Party

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Nine Highland Lions (previous page and here below) gathered to sort Eyeglasses in late November.

At the end, 680 pairs of glasses, 14 ink cartridges, 29 cell phones, 5 lbs. of keys and 2 hearing aids were boxed and forwarded to The Lions of Illinois Foundation. Wayne Fenton and Rich Schrumpf and Jim Rehberger and David Payne helped out.

Everybody wanted to sing at District 1A Christmas Party held at Four Points Hotel Sheraton, O’Hare.

Marilyn McClain RC with raised hands (singing Alleluia?), I VDG Ralph Zarada, PDG Austin, Gov Terry – singing or yelling at II VDG Ernie Lapid and Lion Sue Zarada? All participants had lots of fun and frolic.

Special Events Chair ZC Gail Anton organized this event as one of the best memorable Christmas Parties in District 1A.

The Highland Lions donated $3000 to St Joseph hospital in Highland. The bulk of the money will purchase three loaner hearing aids to be used by clients when their own device is in for repair. Additionally lighted eye charts will also be purchased.

The Highland Lions will hold a Trivia Night in February to raise this money. Accepting the donation from President Larry Niggli, Treasurer Dennis Foehner and project coordinator Gene Redman was St Joseph Hospital Director of Philanthropy Amy Stephens.

Lion Flora Stralow and President Keith Hamstra are shown with many colorful and very warm caps, scarves, gloves and mittens donated by members to the Helping Hand Group. The club supports this group annually with a monetary donation and the much needed outdoor clothing items. The Helping Hand group distributes purchased clothing items and toys prior to Christmas to families in need.

Those families also select the donated items from Lions members. Our club is lucky to have members 25

and members' spouses with the talent to knit or crochet.

1-J District Governor Lion Chris Halsey (r) presents Lion Ernie Turcotte (l) with a 30-year pin.

Morrison Lions Club members enjoyed some fun by participating in the annual Christmas Walk Parade. Shown left to right are Bob Smith, Keith Hamstra, Jim Blakemore, Steve Wroble, Martha Kophamer, Our Lion - Tracy Muur, Nancy Countryman, and Aaron Johnson. Bob Countryman, club photographer, also was in the parade.

District Governor Lion Chris Halsey explains how the child eye-screening program works with the computerized specialized eye exam camera. His club, the Elburn Lions Club has purchased this camera and printer and Gov. Halsey has demonstrated it to many as he makes his club visits.

This year, Lombard Lions served approximately 35 members of the Senior Mens Club at the Lions’ Annual Christmas Party. Lunch and gifts were also provided for the men.

Oakbrook Terrace Lion Shelley Lear is the recipient of a Melvin Jones Fellow-ship Award presented by 26

OBT Club Pres. Pete Zubinski. Lion Shelly has spearheaded Someone Special for the District for a number of years.

have been delivered to families within the Sandwich School District. In addition, over 400 Christmas Cheer Boxes are taken to home and care facilities on Christmas Eve by teams of Lion “Santas” and their helpers. Beginning in mid-November, the Lions Club places its red bins in a number of local drop-off sites where donations may be placed.

Monetary donations are also accepted to offset the cost of the grocery gift cards that accompany each food box. Hundreds of home-made cookies & candies are needed to fill the 400 Cheer Boxes and those are contributed by members of the community. All donated goods are placed in the Sandwich Fire Barn until Lions and persons wanting to assist in a “hands on” way by packing the grocery boxes at the Sandwich Fire Station on December 18th can help. All are delivered by Sandwich Lion “Santas” and their helpers on December 20th. Sandwich Lion Gary Lemke disbursed the red tubs to local businesses & churches that had been stenciled by the Indian Valley Vocational Centers Graphic Arts Class. It really is a community effort!

Sixty years ago, the late Franklin “Red” Mall and his wife Peg began taking groceries for holiday dinners to folks who were “having a tough time of it.”

Frankie also dressed in a Santa suit made by Peg and they delivered baskets of home-made goodies

to senior citizens who were spending Christmas Eve alone. When Frankie’s health deteriorated, he asked the Sandwich Lions Club to take over the project and they agreed as long as they had the support of the entire community. In recent years, more than 200 food boxes plus grocery gift cards 27

Bloomingdale Lions Club worked with the Bloomingdale Park District to create this sign in front of the Bloomingdale Park District Museum. The ribbon cutting occurred on November 28th.

Eastern ZC Lion Susan Galvez (r) presented Melvin Jones Fellowships to Itasca Lions Tom Kyger (l) and Bob Olender (c) at the club’s 75th Anniversary celebration in November.

For Christmas Basket Day, Burlington Lionesses delivered 24 baskets of goodies to older folks who have a difficult time getting out. They love a visit, too. One lady crocheted Afghans for all the girls who visited with her! (l to r) Lionesses Deb Twenhafel, Jessica Lemon, Kathy Pawlak, Jean Micklevitz, Susan Koldan, Christine Gammeri, Lynn Kuhn, and Mary Lake. -----------------------------------

Members of the Sandwich Lions Club brought toys for the Marine Corps Reserve's Toys for Tots program to their December club meeting held at Fox Valley Community Center. Pictured is Lion Kyle Wallis presenting a new toy to the Toys for Tots representative, Bill Meyer. ----------------------------------------------------

Malta Lions served dinner to 80 senior citizens and delivered another 30 dinners to seniors who were shutin.

“We Serve!” said the Malta Lions.

--------------- On December 12, over 100 kids and parents welcomed Santa to the Malta Lions Park. Santa listened to requests and handed out goodies to all the kids. There was free hot chocolate, apple cider and cookies for all to enjoy. This is a new tradition 28

sponsored by the Malta Lions that they hope to continue.

Glendale Heights Barangay Lions Club Holiday Caroling at the Glen Hill Elementary School in Glendale Heights, IL, during the school's Holiday Dinner with Santa. The club also caroled two senior citizens groups in Arlington Heights and Hanover Park to bring the joy and good cheers of the holiday season. (Seniors photo attached is from Hanover Park).

1-J Governor Lion Chris Halsey (l) recently installed a 3rd generation Lion in Shabbona IL. (l to r) Sponsor, Grandfather Shabbona Lion Tom Melton, Grandson, new Lion Grant Fleetwood, and the new Lion’s father, Lion Wayne Fleetwood.

The club's annual holiday caroling raises funds singing carols at holiday parties and family gatherings for the club's eyeglass and hearing aid program for poor families and donations to Camp Lions. This year, the caroling group caroled 4 family gatherings, 2 business parties, a church group and a civic club meeting, raising more than $3,000 in funds. -------------------\\

Leo Club of the Year for Lion Year 2013-2014 in District 1-J is the SASED Leo Club with Advisors Addison Lions Tom & Kathi Reed (in yellow Lions’ vests.)

Congratulations, Leos!! ---------------------------------

On December 20th the Pekin Lions Club distributed 350 food baskets to needy families of the Pekin area. In the foreground are Snap Hornung of Barton29

ville Lions Club, Linda Carter of Manito, and Terry Goss of Pekin, both friends of the Pekin Lions Club, helping load a car with a food basket. This is the 67th year the Pekin Lions have provided food for the needy of the community.

Waverly Lions gave a gift of food to the Waverly Food pantry worth over $350.

Each year the Waverly Lions provide Christmas baskets to families in need. This past December 10 families in the Waverly area received Christmas baskets. Waverly Lions are celebrating their 75th Anniversary this year.

Shown are the lineup of cars waiting to receive their food basket.

MD1 Peace Poster Winner from District 1A’s Chicago Philippine Lions Club. This poster has been sent to Lions Clubs International to represent State of Illinois entry.

Student's name is Tina Li, St. Anastasia School Grade 7, age 12. Poster Quote - "Peace is not a one person's thing; so express in a way no one else can."

Lion Mary Ann Vaupel, her husband Dave, their son Jarod, Lion Mike Lutz's son, Shaun and friends of the Pekin Lions Club all packaging the perishable items the day of the distribution.

DG’s & VDG’s @ Council Meeting ‘;

MD1 Monthly e-Magazine. Edted & Published by PDG Austin D’Souza for Lions of Illinois. E-Mail: ILStateEditor@gmail.com

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