Lion Pride MagazineApril-May 2015Volume 43 – Issue 5

A PUBLICATION OF THE LIONS OF LOWER MICHIGAN - MD 11

Roar Like The 20’s At The 2015 MD-11 State ConventionThe Time is Now! Register Today! May 15-16, 2015, Doubletree Hotel, Holland

Grab your fedora and your flapper dress and meet us at the Speakeasy for an evening of fun and games, music and memories! Casino-style gaming, photo booth, live music and the opportunity to mix it up with PID Brian and Lori Sheehan. You won’t want to miss a minute of the Welcome Reception on Friday, May 15.

Learning never goes out of style and the MD 11 Convention Planning Committee has provided the following breakout sessions to keep you informed:

Lions Clubs International Foundation –PID Dennis Cobler Michigan Braille Transcribing Fund –Cindy Olmstead, Director Prison Puppy Raisers –Lion Julie Haase, District 11 E2

Celebrate Lions during the Awards Breakfast and Banquet on Saturday, May 16. The Business Session is your opportunity to hear of updates from our four State Projects: Bear Lake Camp, Eversight, Lions of MI Foundation and Leader Dogs for the Blind. Council Chair Jim Pettinato will also be on-hand to present the “State of the Lions” address.

PID Brian Sheehan exemplifies the heart of being a Lion. His passion and dedication to Lions is a story told through a unique and entertaining way, sure to leave you with a lasting impression and renewed commitment to our organization. You can hear PID Sheehan’s story at the Awards Banquet.

Cap off the weekend with the PDG Association Breakfast and Annual Meeting on Sunday morning, May 17.

Coming early to Holland? You are invited to attend the Pre - Convention Picnic Thursday, May 14 at 6:30, held at Kollen Park located on the shores of beautiful Lake Macatawa. The Holland Lions Club will provide a Lions-style picnic sure to satisfy! Cost - $10.00. Make your reservations today! lions@lionsofmi or 517-887-6640

MD 11 STATE CONVENTION SPEAKER, BRIAN E. SHEEHAN, PID

Brian E. Sheehan, from Bird Island, Minnesota, was elected to serve a two-year term as a director of Lions Clubs International at the association’s 94th International Convention, held in Seattle, Washington, in 2011.

Past Director Sheehan is the founder and CEO of Rural Computer Consultants, a software development company.

A member of the Bird Island Lions Club since 1991, he has held many offices within the association, including club president, zone chair,

Webmaster tech advisor, leadership chair, membership chair, retention chair, district convention chair, vice district governor, district governor, council chair, long range planning chair, membership chair, retention chair, women’s initiative chair and multiple district convention chair. He also served as GMT liaison and as a presenter at numerous Lions events, including the USA/Canada Forum.

In recognition of his service to the association, he has received numerous awards including Club Lion of the Year, the District 5M 4 Diabetes Awareness Award, the MD 5M Web Site Appreciation Award, the MD 5M Al Jensen Leadership Award, the Founders Membership Growth Award, three International President’s Certificates of Appreciation, an International President’s Leadership Award and an International President’s Medal. He is a Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow.

In addition to his Lions activities, Past Director Sheehan is active in numerous professional and community organizations. He has served as president of Bird Island Civic and Commerce, director of the Learning Funhouse and as a member of various school committees. He also received the 2011 U.S. Small Business Association Minnesota Small Business Person of the Year Award.

Past Director Sheehan and his wife, Lori, also a Lion, have two sons and two daughters.

Upcoming EventsApril 26- May 2, 2015White Cane Week

April 24-26District 11 A1 ConventionLivonia-Embassy Suites

District 11 B2 ConventionDouble Tree Hotel-Holland

Single District 10 ConventionSault Ste. Marie – LSSU

May 1-3District 11 E2 ConventionMackinaw City

May 14-16MD 11 Pre Convention PicnicMD 11 State ConventionDouble Tree Hotel-Holland

May 15Council of Governors & DG-Elect MeetingsDouble Tree Hotel-Holland

May 16-22World Wide Week of Service

June 1Helen Keller Day

For complete calendar of events, check our website:www.lionsofmi.com

Executive Director’s PrideExcitement is building around the state as Lions celebrate their

greatness at District Conventions with recognitions and awards bestowed upon Lions by their District Governor. Inspiring messages from International Guest speakers such as PID Dennis Tichenor, Oregon, are challenging us to spread our enthusiasm for Lionism like wildfire throughout the communities we serve.

With two more months left in the Lion’s calendar year, there is still work to be done and new members to be installed. As a whole, Lions have hit a milestone with a record-setting 1.4 million members! Michigan claims a portion of that number with 11,143 Lions in our state and we continue to add members to our roster.

We are fired-up about the MD 11 State Convention and hope you plan to join us in Holland as we as we celebrate together our past, our present and our future. Yours in Service,Lion Wendy Burns, Executive Director

YOUR TALENT IS NEEDED AT THE USA/CANADA FORUM! USA/Canada Grand Forum opening night celebration on Thursday,

September 17. Take advantage of this opportunity to show off your special talents! The committee is in search of jugglers, balloon artists, magicians, clowns and entertainers. If your club has access to carnival games, such as ring toss, bean bag toss, fishing game, etc., there is a need for this, as well. Think local neighborhood street fair – Lion’s style!

Please contact the State Office at 517-887-6640 to volunteer and for more information.

Strengthening The Pride In District 11-A1District Governor Lion Martin Malone recently wrote an editorial about

how the newly created NEWS Committee was in the process of making the District 11-A1 community more aware of the many activities and services that Lions provide.

With overwhelming support from each Club in the District, support came from the following partners in service to make the NEWS Committee’s vision a reality: OutFront Media Tamaco Graphics, and the Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind.

Billboards are can be seen around the District, and 11 A-1 Clubs have placed similar promotional posters in area businesses.

Why should other Districts follow suit? To help Increase Membership, Increase Donations, and Increase Service Opportunities to Those in Need.

DG Martin thanks the NEWS Committee, consisting of Lions Rick DeClaire, Chair; Willie Faison; Jim Zioncheck; PDG Ron Coleman and at large member, Lion Deborah Jameen-Love for accepting the challenge and making this dream become reality!

SAVE THE DATE!The Lions Leadership Institute is a unique opportunity for individuals

to learn and develop lifelong leadership skills, which can be applied to their job, their Lions Club, and their life.

Training equips Lions with the motivation, knowledge and skills to ensure that a high level of service is provided. It develops more leaders, and more leaders translate into greater service. Training makes Lions more effective.

Attending the Leadership Institute gives participants the tools and confidence to become more effective leaders. The skills learned can be applied to their job, their Lions Club and their everyday lives.

Participants learn key components of team building. By sharing ideas, success stories and humanitarian endeavors, Lions learn how to influence membership and become more open-minded and receptive to change.

How will the institute improve Michigan Lionism? The Leadership Institute provides each district with a pool of trained

leaders. Lionism is also improved by creating more responsive and dynamic Lions Clubs throughout Michigan.

Become Your Best – Train with the Best!Lions of Michigan Leadership/Graduate InstituteNovember 13-15

STAYING POSITIVE (+) AND MOVING FORWARD in 11-B2There is a reason that the symbol for POSITIVE is a plus and the

symbol for NEGATIVE is a minus. Staying positive keeps us moving forward with the attitude that we can accomplish what we put our minds to. Being negative can only set us back. Positives cause sparks and sparks are what we need at this point in our Lions Year. We need to take a positive approach as to how the clubs are being run. We need to take a positive approach to the way we are recruiting new members. We need to have a positive outlook on our own involvement in what is the GREATEST of service organizations in the world. If we stay positive we will see better clubs, more members, happier members, and all that makes for retention of old members.

With all that being said, it’s hard to believe that my year as Governor is 2/3rd’s over. It has just been wonderful visiting all the GREAT CLUBS in district 11B2, whether large or small, all are mighty. Really associating with each club at meetings and projects, inducting new members, having 2 new Leo Clubs charted, seeing young people out in their communities in service, has been great. Clubs are busy electing new officers and mentoring them, reporting this to International (PU101’s), as well monthly membership reports and activities reports. Another important

thing for each of us to do is to register to attend our “District Conventions”. As governor I will be doing my best to attend each District Convention in the State. Hope to see you there.

Coming up in May, don’t forget to register for the State Convention on the 14th, 15th, & 16th. On Thursday evening the 14th, the Lions of Holland will be putting on a BBQ for us. A great time of socialization with Lions of Michigan. Also remember to put together a service project during May 16th to the 22nd in your community. This is “Worldwide Week of Service” for our commitment to our Centennial Celebration with the suggestion to serve our “Children” of our communities. Then report this to Lions100.org to earn your Centennial Banner Patch. As always “The Lions of Michigan” are on the MOVE in their communities, the state and around the world. See you all somewhere soon!

Governor Marsha Brown, District 11 B2“MORE HANDS MORE SERVICE”

Membership RibbonsThe Council of Governors and Global Membership Team continue to support

the use of Purple and Gold membership awareness ribbons as a way to talk about membership without always having to talk about membership.

Whenever you spot a ribbon – think Membership! Wear your purple ribbon until you bring in your first new member for the year. When inducted, pass on your purple ribbon to the new Lion and begin wearing your yellow ribbon which will be presented to you.

The ribbons will also make for some good conversation. Available through District Governors and Club Presidents. Wear your Membership Ribbon to your District and State Convention!

THE GRAND FORUM - DeVos Place Grand Rapids, MI September 17-19, 2015Spring is upon us, at least on the calendar. Spring is a new beginning.

Spring is the beginning of the sprint to the 40th USA Canada Lions Leadership Forum in Grand Rapids. Most Lions who have ever attended a USA Canada Forum describe it as the best learning experience in Lions. We will have over 60 learning sessions over 3 full days.

Check out the details at the Grand Rapids Host Committee Facebook page, www.facebook.com/GrandForumHostCommittee, or the Host Committee website, https://sites.google.com/site/2015usacanadalionsforum/ Each can link you to the Forum registration page that you can directly access at http://lionsforum.org/ or you can access all of them through links on the Lions of Michigan website under the Calendar of Events.

New this year are a Lions Festival of Fun on Thursday night featuring carnival acts and the Buckets & Boards comedy percussion show; The Lions Club Handbook, an old school paper bound book jammed with the who, what, where, when and whys of almost anything a club might run across; Lions University, an online learning experience for all levels of Lions, free year round to forum attendees; a mobile app for the forum probably available by the end of April; speakers, including LCI First Vice President Dr. Yamada,

Lisa Whelchel from “Facts of Life,” and Wayne Brock, Boy Scouts CEO; and a special surprise for Saturday night.

We are currently a long way from our registration and volunteer goals. Please stop by our table at your district convention if you have not registered online and register. The registration fee goes up after May 31. The Forum will never be closer or more economical to attend than 2015.

You can also complete the volunteer registration form at our convention table or online at the Lions of Michigan website. I hear a lot of Lions saying they will register and volunteer. Please do it now. I have literally heard it over 100 times, yet we have only about 30 completed volunteer forms submitted to PCC Shepard. The earlier you register for the Forum and as a volunteer, the more likely you are to get your hotel of choice (4 of 6 hotels are connected or within a block or 2 of the convention center). When you volunteer you can choose your day(s) and activity. The earlier you complete and return the volunteer form, the more likely you are to get your preferred date and activity on our master schedule. Not all volunteer opportunities are inside the convention center. We also need people in hotel lobbies, at Welcome Centers, the airport, and to help with set up before the Forum begins. For the Lions of Michigan to show the Lions of the rest of the country and Canada the Grand Forum, we need another 300 volunteers. We expect to provide a rebate on the registration fee to attendees who volunteer at least 8 hours of service to the Forum as certified by the Host Committee to the International Planning Committee, which would send the rebate after the Forum. The amount of rebate is under discussion.

REGISTER NOW TO JOIN US IN GRAND RAPIDS.

PCC John Johnson, Host Committee Chairperson

Leader Dogs Accepting Summer Camp ApplicationsLeader Dogs for the Blind is Accepting Applications for their 2015 Summer Experience Camp Do you know any teenagers who could use a week of fun, outdoor activity and friendship this summer? Do you think they would enjoy kayaking, rock wall climbing and tandem biking? How about the challenge of developing new travel skills and stretching their independence? If so, the Leader Dogs for the Blind Summer Experience Camp was designed with them in mind. The program combines outdoor activities with things exclusively Leader Dog—audible pedestrian GPS training and the opportunity to spend time with Leader Dogs in training and guide dog mobility instructors. The combination will help them increase the skills they need to live independently! Summer Experience Camp is for boys and girls ages 16 and 17 who are legally blind. The program is completely free including airfare to Michigan—and everyone receives a free HumanWare Trekker audible pedestrian GPS device to keep. Summer Experience Camp is scheduled for June 26—July 3, 2015. Applications are due by April 1, 2015. For more information and to download an application, go to www.leaderdog.org/clients/programs/summer-experience-camp or call the Leader Dogs for the Blind client services department at 888-777-5332.

NATHAN VINSON FOR 2ND DISTRICT GOVERNORNate Vinson has been a Lion for over 20 years, holding the position of

former President of Northwest Detroit Lions Club and President of Detroit Motown Lions Club; Zone and Region Chair and Guiding Lion. He attended Lion Leadership and Faculty Training Institute and has served as President/Chairman of several non-profit organizations. When elected, he will work with the District Governor to bring more unity in the clubs and the district. Vinson is known as a “mover shaker” and received one of the Men of Excellence Awards from the Michigan Chronicle.

Eversight’s “2nd Annual Bowling For Brighter Tomorrow” FundraiserOn March 14, 2015, Eversight Michigan (formerly known as the Michigan

Eye-Bank) held its 2nd Annual Bowling for Brighter Tomorrows Fundraiser. At this event, we were able to raise more than $1,800 in support of our Gift of Sight program, which covers the cost of sight restoration for the uninsured. Eversight Michigan would like to extend a huge thank you to the Lions Clubs who were able to support us in making that day successful by joining us for some afternoon fun, donating items to our raffle auction and/or sponsoring lanes:

Ann Arbor Host Lions Club Clinton Lions Club Dexter Lions Club Dexter Leos Club Napoleon Lions Club WISD Leos Club

Mark your calendars! Eversight Michigan will be hosting our 3rd annual Bowling for Brighter Tomorrows fundraiser on Saturday, March 12, 2016 at Bel-Mark Lanes in Ann Arbor! We hope to see you there!

Updates From Lions Clubs International

Lions Worldwide Week of Service - Will Your Club Host A Project?The Lions Worldwide Week of Service in May is a special Centennial

Service Challenge event designed to strengthen our communities and help us reach our Centennial goal of serving 100 million people.

This year, International President Joe Preston has made serving children in need one of our international service goals, so consider hosting a project to help children in your community. No matter how you choose to serve, be sure to join us for this special international event!

MICHIGAN LIONS AT THE LCI Convention – HawaiiHOSPITALITY ROOMThe International Committee will host a Hospitality Room at the Waikiki Beach Marriott. Take a break to sit and relax, grab a snack and connect with fellow Lions.

INTERNATIONAL PARADE - Saturday, June 27The parade uniform consists of the MI Lions parade shirt (red, white, blue with stars on the sleeve), navy slacks, skirt or capris, black shoes. Please note - shorts are not allowed as parade attire. Need a parade shirt? Order form is included in the Lion Pride, or contact the state office.

MICHIGAN NIGHT - Sunday, June 28 – Michigan Night at Germaine’sA visit to Hawaii is not complete without the experience of a Luau, and Germaine’s is the place to go for a traditional Hawaiian Luau. Transportation from both the Governor’s and Michigan delegates designated hotels, tax, tip, and three adult beverages are included in the $80.00 price. Reserve your spot today!

INTERNATIONAL CAUCUS - Monday, June 29, 2015This event is from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. at the convention center. All convention attendees are encouraged to listen to the speeches, as this will give you a first-hand look at the candidates you may wish to invite to your District conventions. Michigan has a candidate in MD 11: PCC Paul Hemeryck, State Treasurer, and PCC Jenny Ware from SD 10.

Hawaiian Shirt ChallengePut on your favorite Hawaiian attire and Join International President Joe Preston in taking on the challenge. Take a picture or post a video and let us know if you’re coming to this year’s convention in Honolulu, Hawaii - See more at: http://www.lionsclubs.org

Full schedule of events is can be viewed on LCI’s website.

Club Happenings

> district 11 A1

www.metrodetroitlions.org

DG Martin Malone

Monroe • Wayne

Upcoming EventsWyandotte Lions Club: Annual Flea Market and Antique sale was held Saturday and Sunday, April 11 & 12, 2015

Rochester Hills Lions Club: Are working on the 38th Annual Leader Dog Spring Carnival which takes place from April 30th through May 10th

Seedlings “Bowling For Braille”Livonia High-Nooners Lions Club had a ball at the “Seedlings”

Bowling for Braille Event. Seedlings started in Debra Bonde’s basement in 1985 where 250

braille books were manufactured. In 2014 Seedlings manufactured 25000 braille books and donated almost 10000 of these books for use by blind and visually impaired children. Every $10 raised means another children’s braille book is manufactured and distributed. This is definitely an organization worthy of support by all Lions Clubs

This year, as a Club and with the help of our friends and family who we shared our lanes with; we helped raise $5,000 for Seedlings!!!

Bedford Lions At Local Annual Trade FairThe Bedford Lions Club wishes to thank the two LHC staff members

and 5 Wayne State University medical student volunteers that came to the Bedford Business Association Annual Trade Fair. They screened 62 people; 54 adults and 8 children. All the children passed the screening. However 30 adults were referred for follow up testing. Their staff gave consultation to a number of individuals inquiring about hearing aids, cost and what to expect. The Club had a booth in the Gym and gave our information regarding which room the test was available. We hope to work the Lions Hearing Center in the future.

Garden City Lions Serve Up PancakesThe Garden City Lions Club served up another successful pancake

breakfast at the Garden City Moose Lodge. Hank Cable, immediate past president, believes close to 200 people came through during the almost four-hour time span. “We did well,” Cable said. “It was a good event.” He explained that the annual breakfast, which features guest cooks from the Garden City Fire Department, is an informational event about the work of the Lions Club. The club’s main focus is supporting Leader Dogs for the Blind, which helps blind and visually impaired people. The service organization also supports the Penrickton Center for the Blind. Every October, the club and firefighters also join with each other to host the Garden City Fire Open House.

Happy 100th Birthday to PDG F. Phillip SaverinoHappy 100th Birthday and congratulations on an incredible 67 years

of service! Your compassion and commitment makes you an outstanding example of what it means to be a Lion to your fellow Lions, family, friends and community.

> district 11 A2

www.lionsdistrict11a2.org

DG Tom Hill

Macomb • Oakland

District Editor: James Leach, Sr.855 Miller Rd., Lake Orion, Ml 48362 • lion1961@ymail.com

Upcoming EventsCenter Line Lions Club: 58th Annual Pancake Breakfast

Macomb Township Lioness Club: Pancakes & More Breakfast

Clarkston Area Lions Club: Project Kidsight Free Vision Screening for All Children

Sterling Heights Lions Club: Rock & Roll Forever Evening with the Stars

Macomb Township Lioness Club: Euchre Tournament

Rochester Lions Club: 3rd Annual Spring Wine Tasting

Fraser Lions Club: Euchre Tournament

“A Night At The Races” With The Lake Orion LionsA Night at the Races with the Lake Orion Lions Club Racing Lions was a

first time event. Stealing the idea from a local Optimist club gave us a bit of a head start, but we still had our hands full. Basically starting from scratch, we had to come up with templates for cutting our Lions. After acquiring our template, it was a good Saturday afternoon project to cut them all out. Local merchants decorated and displayed the Lions in their stores, helping us to sell tickets.

Race day came quick. We served a great meal and the hall was all decked out in a safari theme. Doors opened and people just kept flowing in, packing the house with a high energy crowd. When the DJ blew the bugle, the race began. Each toss of the dice advanced each Lion until we had a winner.

The event was a great success and we are proud to say our proceeds were to benefit Lions Bear Lake Blind Camp.

Michigan Supreme Court Justice Richard Bernstein Inspires Berkley LionsRichard Bernstein had just finished his impassioned speech about

overcoming challenges when he stopped and called for his new friend, Brianna Costigan, to join him at the front of the room. The two had met for the first time just prior to the Monday night event put on by the Berkley Lions Club, but they shared a common bond as both have been blind since birth. So there was the Michigan Supreme Court Justice and the bubbly 16-year-old standing next to each other, fielding questions from an awestruck crowd and embracing who they are. Costigan exemplified her comfort level with her life when she told the crowd she is fine with not

having the ability to ever see. “If I were given the ability to see I would probably say no because I’ve lived this way my whole life,” she said. “I’ve never been able to see before so why would you want to adjust again to a new way of living when you have already learned to live your life the way you have now. “Why would you want to change that?” The teen, who spoke with poise beyond her years, continued by saying “whatever happens in life happens,” and the key is how you react to it. “You can try to change it, but something is going to happen either way so that’s how I look at it,” she said. Costigan’s message was similar to that of Bernstein’s, who talked about how “an easy life doesn’t always correspond to a good one.” “The one great power we have is how do we react to the lives we’ve been given,” he said.

> district 11B1

www.11b1lions.org

DG Vicki Lautzenheiser

Branch • Calhoun • Hillsdale • Jackson • Lenawee • Washtenaw

District Editor: Steve Britten19114th Street, Jackson, Ml 49203 • steve@protechcomputers.biz

Hanover Horton Leo Club Read to Elementary StudentsIn commemoration of the month of March being designated as reading

month, the Hanover Horton Leo Club spent their afternoon reading to the Hanover Horton Elementary students.

District 11 B1 Lions Receive Awards At ConventionJust a few of the Awards presented at the District Convention this

month. Hillsdale Lions Club Region 3 Lions of the Year - Jack and Bonnie Reamer. Jackson Eyeopeners Lions Club members Margie Horsch received the District Lion of the Year award, and Carole Briggs received a Melvin Jones Fellowship for her volunteer work in and out of Lions.

Manchester Lions Honored With Centennial Banner PatchThe Manchester Lions earned their first Centennial banner patch for

completing service projects in all four campaigns of engaging our youth, sharing the vision, relieving hunger, and protecting the environment.

> district 11B2

www.e-district.org/sites/11b2

DG Marsha Brown

Berrien • Cass • Kalamazoo • St. Joseph • Van Buren

District Editor: Donna Romanak31177 County Rd 681, Bangor, Ml 49013 liondonnaromanak@comcast.net

Upcoming EventsComstock Lions Club: Bingo at Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground Portage Lions Club is holding a free electronics recycling event at the Portage Tractor Supply Store

Vicksburg Lions Club: Held its 4th annual Vicksburg Lions Club Bowling Fundraiser

Watervliet Lions Club: Has launched a drive to raise $6,000 for the Dan Stack Memorial Fund. Stack, a 15-year member of the club who died Dec. 26, was principal of Coloma Elementary School. Dave Pudell, president of the Watervliet Lions Club, said funds raised will be used to build a shelter near the playground area of the elementary school. Remaining funds will be used to erect a sign off West Street directing visitors and parents to the school building. “We’d like to raise the needed funds before spring so work could begin on both of the projects this April,” Pudell said. “Dan was a hard worker and a devoted club member. At the time of his death he was the club’s vice president.” The drive will start with $2,000 in memorials made after Stack’s death, said Pudell. Stack had been principal of the elementary school since 1980 and had always wanted to see a sign placed along West Street. Currently, only a small sign hangs from a steel post at the driveway entrance.

Edwardsburg Lions Tanda Stiffler Profiled In Cassopolis Vigilant News Tanda Stiffler is a longtime volunteer and current president of the

Edwardsburg Lions Club, which meets at 7 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of the month in the Edwardsburg American Legion building. The organization provides various services for the community, including Project KidSight, which performs vision screenings for children.What do you do for the Edwardsburg Lions Club?

I have been the president for the past two years, so I organize and get most of our fundraisers going. I also do all of the publicity. I want to get the word out to the community to show that we are committed to the community. I am also the co-coordinator for the whole district for the project KidSight. We do vision screenings for kids from 1 year olds to 17 year olds. At our pancake breakfast we did 41 kids and of those 41 kids, three children we found need to be seen by a professional eye doctor. If the kids are in school and having trouble, we help them.When and how did you become involved with the club?

My husband (Dave) and I both joined the Lions in November of 2007. My husband’s father was a Lion for many years, Herb Stiffler. We joined right away. We went to a district forum and I listened to a

couple gentlemen talk about Project KidSight. I was so impressed that I came back and said I want to do a pancake breakfast and offer Project KidSight in our community. We’ve been doing that every year since we joined.

Any of the schools or festivals or churches — anytime there is an event in Cass County — we take our camera and we screen children all throughout the district in Cass County. We go wherever there is a need to make sure kids can see well and do well in school and have a better chance at life.What do you enjoy about volunteering there?

Helping people, watching their faces and knowing that we are making a difference in their lives.

Three Rivers Lions Club Honor Al HeivilinThe Three Rivers Lions club is honored to have selected Al Heivilin as

the 2015 Bruce C. Snook Citizen of the Year. Al is, as one of our members described him, a “quiet giver.” He was a member of the Marine Corps Reserves for over 25 years, including a tour of active duty during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2002. One of his assignments in the Corps was to coordinate the Toys for Tots program in the St. Joseph County area. During this time he worked closely with the Family Independence Agency to expand collections, to coordinate toy distribution, and to ultimately serve many more children in our local area. Al had also been involved with youth athletics almost continually since his own distinguished high school years. He has served as an MSHAA-certified official at basketball, baseball, and softball games for over 30 years. Al will be honored at a banquet on April 28 at Belle Epoch in Three Rivers.

> district 11C1

http://e-district.org/sites/11c1

DG Diane Wehby

Allegan • Barry • Ionia • Kent • Muskegon • Ottawa

District Editor: Sue Ferris

Upcoming EventsMuskegon Host Lions Club: Muskegon Host is working on their annual summer camp for the blind. The dates are August 21st through 23rd with applications and camp information being sent out in June. Volunteers are always needed so if you would like to volunteer, need an application or require camp information kindly contact Jack Brewer at jdbrewer1@frontier.com.

Casnovia/Kent City Lions Club: The Casnovia/Kent City Lions enjoyed working and hosting a breakfast on December 6 for the annual Christmas Bazaar at the Old School in downtown Casnovia. There was a great turnout as profits exceeded the $1,000 mark for the second year in a row.

Grand Rapids Lions Club: An article entitled, “Lions make a Grand Return to West Michigan in the April issue of LCI’s Lion Magazine provides great publicity on GR as a city, West Michigan too and the upcoming USA/Canada Forum to be held here September 17 to 19.

Thornapple Valley Lions Keep Children Fed During Spring BreakThornapple Valley Lions Club was busy in April making sure that children

who depend on school menus would be well fed during spring break.The local service club, which is based in Ada, provided food for 77 children from Grand Rapids Public Schools, who normally receive free breakfast and lunch while school is in session.

“The money raised throughout the year helps us fund projects like this to allow our club to meet pressing needs in our community, including vision screening, literacy projects, and various shelters in the area,” said Bob Ballard, club president. “The Lions are grateful for the members of the community who donated money, provided boxes, and assisted with shopping.” He said St. Matthew Lutheran Church provided space to pack boxes, and the partners at Grand Rapids Public Schools helped identified the children and distributed the boxes.

The Thornapple Valley Lions Club has 25 members and meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Any one -- male or female aged 18 or older -- is welcome to join the organization or help in any of their projects. For more information contact Governor Diane Wehby: dianewmsn@ameritech.net

Muskegon Northside Lions ClubAccurate reporting of Muskegon Northside’s past year of service in the

four areas of engaging youth, vision relieving hunger and protecting the environment resulted in a new Centennial Service patch for their banner mid March.

Rockford Lions Club

On March 21 Rockford Lions had a booth at the Rockford Chamber Expo where they sold honey baked hams for Easter which concluded April 4th at the Community Cabin. Lion Kathy Bender trained and was excited to screen young children with the Kidsight program also at the Expo.

> district 11C2

www.district11c2.org

DG Billy White

Clinton • Eaton • Gratiot • Ingham • Livingston • Shiawassee

District Editor: Noreen Boes2065 Woven Heart, Holt Ml 48842 lionsdavnor@gmail.com

Upcoming EventsOvid Lions Club: Will be doing the Spring road-side pick-up, Relay for Life in St. Johns. The Lions Wagon will be there serving food.

Dewitt Breakfast Lions Club: Texas Hold-em June 7 – 10Lugnuts Lions night - June 17

Eaton Rapids Lions Club: White Cane Drive, Eaton Rapids and Dimondale Golf Outing, Eaton Rapids Lions Annual Corn Roast

Lansing Host Lions Club: Bowling for Sight

Lansing St. Stephen’s Lions Club: Bowling for Vision

Congratulate MSU Campus Lions On Their First Service Event!MSU Campus Lions participated in their first service event! They spent

their evening volunteering at the Lansing Ronald McDonald House. They had a great time serving in the community, and are so grateful for the opportunity to do so!

Over 19,000 Recycled Eyeglasses Picked Up During Great Eyeglass Challenge! Pictured are Grand Rapids Lions Club - Eyeglass Recyclers (Jim Baird and

Brent Spoelstra) and Noreen and Dave Boes (chairs of the event). They picked up over 19,000 glasses from the Lions and Lioness of District 11-C2 + Glasses from other districts in 2 vehicles at the turn-in at the State Office on March 7, 2015. Total # of glasses turned in for the past 2 years over 35,000 pairs. WAY TO GO LIONS!

Congratulations winners: Brighton Lions - Bucket Award, Lansing St. Stephens Community Lions - 1st place, Lansing Delta Lions - 2nd Place, Owosso-Corruna Lions - 3rd place and DeWitt Lioness - special award. Holt Lions Club Donate To HOPE Scholarship Fund

Dr. Johnnie Scott, Superintendent of the Holt Public Schools accepted a check for $1,500 from the Holt Lions to the H.O.P.E. Scholarship Fund. In the picture on the left is Lion President Maury Mahieu, center, Dr. Scott and left Lion Stuart Goodrich.

Maple Valley Lions Honor Student Of The MonthMaple Valley Lions Club honored Jared Akin as the Student of the

month for February with dinner and a gift certificate. Jared was chosen by Fulton Elementary for the second grade.

Bretton Woods Lions Offer Support To Eaton County SheriffsThe Eaton County Sheriff’s Office is in the process of purchasing

body cameras to be worn by officers in the field. After evaluation over several months to see whether the body cameras were worth the cost, a generous donation is make the effort possible. Sheriff Tom Reich was contacted by the Bretton Woods Lions Club of Delta Twp. To ask if they would accept a donation toward the purchase of the body cameras; the donation will help purchase three body cameras for the Eaton County Sheriff’s Office.

> district 11D1

www.e-district.org/sites/11d1

DG Dennis Poirier

Bay • Genesee • Saginaw • Tuscola

District Editor: Shari Johnson8334 Rich Rd., Mayville, Ml 48744 sharijoh@tds.net

Upcoming EventsLinden Lions Club: Golf Outing will take place at the Coyote Preserve in Fenton on Saturday, August 29th, 2015

Maryville Lions Club: Purchased 5 pairs of binoculars for the science program at the elementary school.

Saginaw West, Buena Vista, Carrollton, Freeland & St. Charles Lions Clubs: Packaged 2400 boxes of groceries for area communities through the Community Action Center

Saginaw West Lions Club: Is holding its 14th Annual golf outing June 14th, 2015

Swartz Creek Lions Club: Is excited to announe that July 8, 2015, it is planning a spaghetti dinner/fundraiser for our new Bill Morgan Scholarship Fund

Buena Vista Lions Club: Free Senior Citizen Pancake Breakfast

Clio Lions Sponsor Easter Egg HuntGenesee County kids got in their Easter egg hunting with the Clio

Lions Club’s annual Easter Egg Hunt at Clio City Park. About 200 kids came out to the park on Sunday for the event, according to organizers. Former Lions Club president Meghan Cherry said the club stuffed and

prepared at least 1,500 eggs to hide around the park. The kids excitedly scoured the area, finding them all minutes after the hunt’s 10 a.m. start time. The kids, split into four different age groups, won about 260 prizes and took home jellybeans, Tootsie Rolls, and other types of candy. The hunt has gone on for at least 40 years, according to Lions Club organizers. They raise money for the hunt by selling chocolate bunnies and mints, and through a white cane fundraiser.

Lion Laura Hunt Presented With AwardGovernor Dennis Poirier and Past International Director Steven Glass,

on behalf of Lions International President Joe Preston, presenting Laura Hunt,11D1 Cabinet Secretary, with her second Lions International President’s Certificate of Appreciation.

Frankenmuth Lions Keeping The Roads CleanFrankenmuth Lions Road cleanup. It’s really disgusting the things

people throw out along the road! Thank you dedicated Lions!!

Freeland Lions Easter Egg HuntThe Freeland Lions thanks THE Freeland Boy Scouts for their efforts and

help today and the many years past. We had well over 250 little ones enjoy the hunt and the lucky few found the egg with the dollar coin and won an Easter basket.

> district 11D2

www.11-d2lions.org

DG Whitey Simon

Huron • Lapeer • Sanilac • St. Clair

District Editor: DG Whitey Simon

Upcoming EventsEmmett Lions Club: Held a blood drive at Our Lady of Mt Carmel Parish and 36 pints of blood were donated

Hadley Lions Club: Held their famous once a month Spaghetti dinner at the Old Town Hall

Carsonville Lions Club: Held their Pancake Breakfast which included omelet station, pancakes, eggs, sausage, potatoes, biscuits and gravy, coffee & juice

Sandusky Lions Club: Is holding a Meet “Elsa and Anna” luncheon

Memphis Lions Hosts Autism Awareness PresentationMemphis Lions hosted an Autism awareness presentation on Tuesday the

14th of April at the Memphis Lions hall. There were four different presentations given by representatives from different Autism organizations. State representative Andrea LaFontaine was there to answer questions about how the state is involved with this condition. Lions district officers were there to answer questions about “Lions Bear Lake Camp” how they are involved. Teresa Gabalis of Macomb/St. Clair chapter of Autism of America Society also covered the subject of Bear Lake Camp.

Jeddo Lions Wine Tasting FundraiserThe Jeddo Lions Club recently held a Wine Tasting-Fundraiser at their

club. The recipients were Oakland University, who are providing space and guidance to young adults with Autism to start a small laundry business. This business will be handled as a regular business model to start a laundry service; the employees will be paid a salary, just like regular workers. O. U. will provide actual business advisors to guide these employees. Oakland University is working with Autism Alliance of Michigan.

Algonac Lions Crossing The International BorderRecently Lion’s Sam, Joel, Paul, Bill, and Tom had the honor of being

the guest of the Wyoming (Canada) Lions Club for their annual Rabbit Dinner. For some of us it was our first trip to our Canadian friends and enjoying a fine delicacy of Rabbit. The Wyoming Lions were great host and served a great meal, and we look forward to visiting them again.

> district 11 E1

www.milions11e1.org

DG Peter Conarty

Benzie • Clare • Grand Traverse • Isabella • Lake • Leelanau • Manistee • Mason • Mecosta • Midland • Missaukee • Montcalm • Newaygo • Oceana • Osceola • Wexford

District Editor: DG Pete Conarty

Upcoming EventsLuther Lions Club: Held a Baked Potato Dinner with lot of toppings, homemade pies and cakes

Mt Pleasant Lions Club: Annual Chicken BBQ is coming up First Sunday in May

Evart Lions Club: Are busy adding an addition to their food stand at the Fairgrounds. The addition will provide room for freezer equipment. Most of the clubs fundraisers are selling food at events at the Fairgrounds. The club will be giving two $1,000 scholarships to two graduating seniors.

Mesick Lions Club: Are a sponsor for 56TH Mushroom festival May 8 – 10, in Mesick. There is a parade on May 9, and the Mesick Lions are looking for Lions Clubs, who might be interested in participating. The weekend is filled with family activities: an opportunity to hunt mushrooms, a Blessing of the Jeeps, food booths, concerts, and interesting markets.

Midland Lions - How Vision Screening Helped MikeyThe Midland Lions Club teamed up with local child care centers in the

area to offer free vision screening for children. On one of the screening dates, 19-month-old Mikey Wood was screened at the Kids First Child Development Center. Mikey’s parents, Tom and Heather Wood, were surprised to learn that the screening results showed that Mikey may have astigmatism. The Woods took Mikey to Dr. Paul Kimball for a complete eye exam and he confirmed the screening results. Kimball prescribed glasses for Mikey, who is now the youngest of his patients to get glasses. The Woods reported that Mikey was not interested in watching TV and that he would sometimes run in to things. Upon learning of the screening results, they realized that Mikey’s vision was interfering with his activities. The vision screening by the Lions Club and the prompt follow up by Mikey’s parents have resulted in improved vision which will have a big impact on Mikey’s early learning experiences and success in school.

Crossroads Lions Chili Cook OffCrossroads Lions Club hosted their Chili Cook Off on Saturday, March

14. Eagle Village won the title for the Best Chili. The club also had a bake sale and a 50/50 raffle. Admission to the Chili Cook Off was $5.00 or a pair of glasses. The club collected 40 pairs of glasses and made about $700. In the picture above PDG Bill Simpson receives his taste of chili from one of the vendors.

Coleman Lions Adopt A Highway Clean UpColeman Lions Club had perfect weather for the STAR Leos & Lions Adopt

A Highway clean up! 19 of us gathered 35 bags of trash on U.S. 10. The whole job was complete in about 2 hours, after which we all enjoyed a pizza party at the Lions Hall.

Cedar-Maple City Lions ClubCedar-Maple City Lions Club held their first annual Pancake Breakfast

with help from the Proclites 4-H club with great response.

> district 11E2

www.milions11e2.org

DG Barb Durflinger

Alcona • Alpena • Antrim • Arenac • Charlevoix • Cheboygan • Crawford • Emmet • Gladwin • Iosco • Kalkaska • Montmorency • Ogemaw • Oscoda • Otsego • Presque Isle • Roscommon

District Editor:Mitch Smith20933 Palmateer Rd,Hillman, Ml 49746 mitchs048@hughes.net

Upcoming EventsBellaire Lions Club: Made a donation to the new Central Lake Leo Club

Hale Lions Club: Delivered meals to the needy in the community and provided transportations for a recent amputee to physical therapy and doctor appointments

Central Lake Leo Club Charter Night1st Vice President Jim Flis and the Central Lake Lions hosted a

charter night celebration on March 26th to welcome the Central Lake Leo Club! DG Barb and spouse, Duane were guests along with other District Lions. DG Barb later inducted the Leos.

Prescott/Skidway Lake Lions ClubRC Brian Chase presents President Brenda Eymer with LCI’s Centennial

Service Challenge Patch.

Beaverton Lions ClubWorked with the Beaverton Lions unloading food trucks, preparing

the boxes and distributing them to families. This is the fifth month the Leo Club members have donated their labor on various projects.

Petoskey Lions ClubPetoskey Lions recent Pancake Dinner fundraiser, despite frigid

temperatures 60 individuals attended the dinner, netting $234. Residents from two half-way houses were also served.

Gaylord Lions ClubThe Gaylord Lions Club repaired a vision magnifier on loan from the

Lions of Michigan Foundation, and then gave it to an individual in need of it.

USA/CANADA GRAND FORUM - SEPTEMBER 17-19, GRAND RAPIDS, MIStrides WalkRegistration for the strides walk on Thursday, September 17 is now open. Forum attendees will have the opportunity to support Lions’ fight against diabetes by participating in a fundraiser for the American Diabetes Association and the Canadian Diabetes Association. The strides walk will take place from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM on that day. Participants

will receive a sack lunch and a T-Shirt. The 1.5 mile easy walking track will be along the beautiful Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids. The cost of the event is $25 per person. All proceeds will go directly to diabetes prevention activities in the US and Canada.

Leo DaySaturday of the forum will be a special day for Leo’s to attend the forum at a reduced cost. Special training related to Leo club operations and successes take place throughout Saturday. Leos will participate in a special Leo only lunch that day. Leos must pre¬register. The cost for Leo registration, including lunch is $15.

Young Lions ForumAs part of this year’s Forum, younger Lions will find themselves at home. On Friday, September 18, the young Lions will conduct a series of training sessions geared toward young Lion involvement and campus clubs. Special social events are scheduled for young lions throughout the Forum. The young Lions will give back through the computer workshops discussed below. If your club has young Lions or sponsors a campus club, please encourage them to attend this year’s Forum. All Lions under 30 years of age can register up until August 1 at the preregistration rate. Help us spread the word!