Lions history made during World Sight Week meeting

During a visit to Arizona for World Sight Week in October, history was made when Lion International President Albert Brandel met with Dr. Joseph Shirley, President of the Navajo Nation. This was the first time that a Lions International President has entered the Navajo Nation. President Brandel had the opportunity to visit with President Shirley at his office. Presidents Brandel and Shirley discussed many issues pertaining to the Native American population in this country. President Shirley has agreed to meet with President Brandel and former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who is a Lion, in Washington, D. C. At that time President Shirley will present to Lions Clubs International a flag from the Navajo Nation, which will become the newest flag in the Lions Flags of Nations display. A number of future actions may come out of this historic meeting as President Shirley and several teachers are very interested in introducing Lions Quest to the reservation schools. President Brandel expressed his wish to make sure that United States Lions understand that a portion of the funds collected for SightFirst II stays within the U.S. Holding an eye screening in Window Rock for World Sight Week is one example of Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) using SightFirst II money within this country. Eye mobiles from Arizona and New Mexico were in Window Rock, where over 400 children and adults were screened over a two-day period. Equipment featuring video games from the Amblyopia Foundation of America was used for a portion of the children’s eye screenings. Those needing glasses will receive them, courtesy of LCIF. Starting Wednesday of World Sight Week, President Brandel and his wife, Dr. Maureen Murphy, had their first opportunity to meet Arizona Lions by attending breakfast at the Mesa Thunderbird Lions Club. From there they went to the Arizona Lions Vision Center to take part in a diabetes screening and tour the facility. Lunch was with the Phoenix North Phoenix Lions Club. That evening the Brandels had the opportunity to meet the leadership of MD-21 before attending a poolside reception for Lions from all over the state. Friday morning President Brandel and Dr. Murphy started their day by having breakfast hosted by the Surprise Grand and Surprise Sun Village Lions Clubs, where most westside Lions Clubs were represented. The President had expressed a desire to meet as many Lions as possible because they are the ones who make miracles happen. From there the President’s party attended a glaucoma screening held in El Mirage at the Community Center. A skilled team of doctors and students from the University Physicians Healthcare, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Arizona, performed the testing. Everyone who had the opportunity to hear International President Brandel speak were highly moved by the experiences he shared with his audience. Whether it was visiting the make-shift school the Chinese Lions assembled for the children whose school was crushed by the earthquake or seeing the Lion-supported orphanage where babies were taken in Africa, President Brandel made each of those present realize the value of belonging to Lions Clubs International.

Camp Tatiyee Donations Now Qualify For AZ State Tax Credit

Bob Roth, Treasurer Camp Tatiyee is now designated by the State of Arizona as a Qualifying Charity for which contributions qualify as a tax credit. Individuals making cash donations to the Camp may now reduce the amount of state tax due, dollar-for-dollar and within certain limits, by claiming the contribution as a tax credit on Arizona State tax returns. This means you can opt to support your camp with funds you might otherwise pay in taxes. A “Contribution Form” will be provided to contributors using this option. The potential income from this source is huge. It is our hope that all Lions of Arizona will use this program, and encourage all their friends to use this program, to provide an additional source of funds for the camp so that it may continue and expand its services to children and adults with special needs. Simply stated, the maximum credit for married taxpayers filing joint returns is $400. Married taxpayers filing separately may each claim one-half the credit. The maximum credit if filing an individual tax return is $200. If there is no tax due in a tax year the unused credit may be carried forward for up to the next five years. This credit is only for individuals – corporations may not claim this credit. For full details about the program, talk with your tax preparer or visit www.azdor.gov.

High School Teachers Endow First Chair in Ophthalmology

As high school teachers in Phoenix, the late Murray and Clara Walker devoted their lives to the service of others. With no children of their own, the couple’s students were their family. It is no surprise that two teachers so passionate about education would want to leave a lasting legacy. The Walkers invested more than $2.5 million of their life savings in research at The University of Arizona College of Medicine. Their estate gift to the UA Foundation created endowed chairs in ophthalmology and respiratory sciences.

The Murray and Clara Walker Memorial Endowed Chair in Ophthalmology is a permanent fund that will produce an annual payout to be expended in support of ophthalmology research. Joseph Miller, MD, MPH, professor of ophthalmology and head of the Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, said that the Walker gift “…shows me that people who work in education value the university and trust the faculty to see that their goals are met, even when they are gone. It will be an honor to help the Walkers achieve this dream.”

The Walkers shared a home on Missouri Avenue in central Phoenix and lived a very simple life that was enriched through their lives as educators. “She loved the University and had a big heart for education,” said Ida White, Clara’s caretaker until her passing in September 2006. Mrs. Walker was born in Willcox, Ariz., and graduated with her bachelor’s degree in education from The University of Arizona. She taught history, government and economics at West Phoenix High School until her retirement in 1969. Many former students have very fond memories of her curly brown hair, broad smile and ever-present string of pearls.

Murray Walker was born in Willow City, Texas, and was a World War II Air Corps veteran. Following his years in the service he served as a firefighter before attending Arizona State University to study secondary education. He taught biology at Carl Hayden High School. Always well-dressed in jacket and tie with a fresh crew cut, he was both respected and beloved by his students.

“As teachers, I think the Walkers understood the connection between new knowledge and the betterment of human life,” said Daniel Stamer, PhD, professor of ophthalmology and vision science at the College of Medicine. “Here at the University of Arizona we have a talented group of vision scientists studying the major causes of blindness in both children and adults. This gift will help make their lives brighter.”

Tatiyee Wish List 2008-2009

Lions Clubs of Arizona: Pam Swanson, Camp Director, needs “stuff” to help make Camp Tatiyee the most fun, most creative, and most educational experience of the summer for our campers! IF you have access to any of these items through your business, family, church, other clubs or associations, and would like a tax donation for the cost of the items; HERE IS YOUR CHANCE!
THEATER NEEDS
Costumes
Wigs
Props
Portable strobe light
Lighting board
Sound board
I tune gift cards for camp ipod
ART
Gallon size bottles of tempera paint all colors
Gallon size bottles of white glue (need 3)
Tye-dye kit (Dharma Trade)
White t-shirts in all sizes
Crayola markers (assorted colors)
8 rolls of paper all colors 36 inch
RECREATION
‘Soft’ balls non-latex (4 inch)
Golf donations
Flashlight lanterns (12)
4 tetherballs
FISHING
Awning
DINING HALL
2 large area rugs
DVD’s for staff
ADMIN
Commercial walkie-talkies (24)****
(Call Pam and get the exact specifications for the walkie-talkies- she needs a certain kind for the camp counselors and staff).
Copy machine that collates/staples
MAINTENANCE
Paint spray guns (4)
Questions? Contact Pam Swanson, Executive Director, P.O. Box 6910, Mesa, AZ 85216 (Office) 480-380-4254 or e mail arizonalionscamp@cox.net ..
Camp Tatiyee is located off Highway 260, approximately 7 ½ miles southeast of Show Low, in Lakeside, Arizona. We are a non-profit organization, run by the Lions Clubs of Arizona. Camp Tatiyee is fully accredited by the American Camp Association, and has served Arizona campers with disabilities for fifty years, at no cost to the camper or their families. All donations are tax deductible; refer your tax advisor to 501-C-3, Tax #86-6052371.

New Board President for Camp Tatiyee
By Pearl Nancarrow

On September 27th at the Camp Tatiyee board meeting, Lion Richard Savage (Prescott Noon Lions) was sworn to office as the new Board President. Doing the honors was PDG Robert Strodel (Fountain Hills Lions).
The board was then sworn to duty for Camp Tatiyee. We look forward to an exciting and productive year, and to work hard at the Tatiyee Land Campaign (TLC). We want to see Lions Camp Tatiyee truly become a Lions property.

TRIPLE T CAN HELP SOLVE MEMBERSHIP WOES
By PID Mick Barrus, Wyoming

Lions Clubs are researching ways to effectively recruit, involve and retain members. It has become increasingly evident when time and financial commitments are expected volunteers are reluctant to become members of service clubs.
Research by several well known sociologists has suggested service clubs can be successful in recruiting, involving and retaining members if new approaches that compliment the needs and life styles of current generations are met. A program recently developed by a group of Lion leaders has used this research to develop an interactive, multi-media presentation that has received very positive reviews.
Transfusion, Transition, Transformation (also referred to as Triple T or TTT) has been presented in 19 states and 4 Canadian provinces using qualified trainers. This new approach allows involvement by the participants as well as visual (DVD) examples of the nine modules presented.
PDG Jim Jaggers of Oregon offers testimony as to the success of TTT which also reflects comments form many other evaluations received. "The work PDG Steve Thomson has done with the Triple T program in District 36-O has turned the corner. We just need to keep the momentum. For the first time since 2002, District 36-O has a positive net gain ... and the establishment of two new clubs. More importantly, the Lions who have participated in TTT have helped move the District forward with a 'can do' attitude. DG Sharon Elder is committed to continue the work with TTT and it is incorporated in the Multiple District 5 year plan."
Details about the Triple T program, thumb-nail sketches of the nine modules, how to schedule a training and additional evaluation comments can be gleaned from the website www.lionsttt.com. Information can also be obtained by contacting: PID Mick Barrus, 1536 16th St. #2, Cody, WY 82414; Phone (307) 527-4954; Email: lionmick@bresnan.net.
(SIDE NOTE - by PID Joe Preston) PID Mick Barrus is a good friend of the Lions of Arizona. He has been into Arizona on numerous occasions to help us develop and strengthen our membership. PID Mick and PDG Ralph Williamson have held several successful TTT training sessions here in Arizona. The program works and can easily be implemented at the club, zone or district level. I encourage you to get more information.

Ever thought it would be fun to travel the back roads of the Navajo Reservation?

Some Arizona Lions had the opportunity to do just that during the last couple of months after the Arizona Lions Vision Center received a grant to provide eye exams to all the Head Start children on the Navajo Reservation.
If you think that’s not so bad, be aware that the reservation covers most of northeastern Arizona and part of northwestern New Mexico, stretching from Monument Valley to Farmington, to just north of Gallup and Winslow. There are approximately 2,600 Head Start students in that area.
To make it more manageable, the children were bussed to the various Chapter Houses for the exams, but they are still all over the reservation. Many Arizona Lions volunteered to help with the gigantic task, under the direction of ALVC Executive Director Jeannette Russell.

LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION
Memorial Tree

What a wonderful way to memorialize those family and friends we wish to remember in a special way. Our colorful Memorial Tree is visible to everyone who visits our Optical Department. For a donation of only $100.00 a bronze leaf will be added and we will notify the family of your gift. A gold leaf is $500.00, a platinum leaf is $1,000.00 or more.
******
At Thanksgiving we are mindful of our great partnerships with many of our providers. They make it possible for us to continue giving the miracle of sight and hearing to so many people. In the photo below Gary Mackman, M.D., receives a plaque from the LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION for over 20 years of service to those in need. Dr. Mackman specializes in cornea transplants and cataract surgery. Of course, the Foundation continues to obtain cornea tissue FREE from Donor Network of Arizona. Another great partnership we count on so often. We owe a huge debt of thanks to ALL our providers.
Pictured L/R: Donna Rowe-Ruggeri/Executive Director, Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation and Gary Mackman, M.D., Phoenix Ophthalmologists.

INTERVIEWS FOR 2009-10 COUNCIL CHAIRMAN ANNOUNCED

The three 2008-09 MD-21 Vice District Governors wish to interview past Arizona District Governors for the position of 2009-10 MD-21 Council Chairman. If you are interested in interviewing for this position, please e-mail your resume to your respective Vice District Governor (LionAnnR@aol.com, sulink@earthlink.net, kk7bj@mindspring.com).
Interviews will take place the afternoon of Saturday, November 15th at the Multiple District 21 Mid-Year Conference in Prescott. Your Vice District Governors look forward to receiving your resumes and scheduling a time for your interview.

12TH LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT FORUM & Mid Year Conference

The Lions, Lioness, Leos & Guests will assemble at the Prescott Resort, Prescott, AZ, November 14th, 15th, & 16th, 2008 for the 12th Annual Leadership Development Forum & Mid Year Conference. District Governor Bill Menard and the Lions of District 21C will be your host for this exciting weekend of LEARNING and FUN. The Leadership Forum, under the guidance of PDG Ralph Williamson, MD21 Leadership Chairman, begins at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, and he has many new and exciting programs planned for your education and enjoyment, including a special program from Maggie Hunt, “It’s A Sweet Life.” Our International guest for the weekend is ID Maurice Kahawaii and his wife, Lani, of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, USA. Director Kahawaii brings an exciting spirit of the Islands to the world of Lionism, and will be presenting a dynamic program on “Retention.” In an attempt to “shake up” the schedule a little and bring some exciting new ideas to the Mid-Year Conference, the Host Committee is hosting a BLACKJACK Tournament on Friday Evening in conjunction with Bucky’s Casino, with over 70% of the entry fees coming back as prizes. Sign up now as we will only have opening for 90 players. ID Kahawaii will be the featured speaker at the International LUNCHEON hosted by Prescott Noon Lioness Club and you don’t want to miss ID Kahawaii’s unique presentation style. You are in for a real treat….and some other surprises from your host committee. And instead of a formal, sit-down dinner with speaker Saturday night, the Host Committee and the Council of Governors will be hosting a ‘1920’s Speakeasy’ GALA complete with dinner, dancing, and FUN…….Put on your thinking cap….come dressed in the style of the 20’s and 30’s – those double breasted suits and wide ties you’ve had in the closet….put on your dancing shoes….and just plan on a fantastic evening of fun, fellowship and friendship with the Lions, Lions, Leos and Guests of Multiple District 21. Of course, the business of the Multiple District as well as the individual Districts will take place on Sunday morning with Cabinet meetings and the MD Closing Session. AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, we will be voting this weekend for our next International Director Candidate. Currently there are two candidates running, so it will be vitally important for as many delegates as possible attend and take part in this process. MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS NOW!!!!! PCC N. Alan Lundgren, MD Conference Chairman

Special Convention and Elections

As many of you know, Multiple District 21 has the opportunity to put forth a candidate for the office of International Director. It is the hope of the Multiple District to get this candidate on the ballot at the 2009 International Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota. At the MD21 Council meeting on Friday, August 2, 2008, the Council passed a resolution to call a special Convention to be held at the November Mid-year Conference in Prescott so the necessary votes may be taken. There will be three votes taken at the Mid-year Conference in Prescott. The first vote will be taken on Friday, November 14th, to fully authorize the “Special Convention.” The second vote will affect only those districts who have endorsed candidates. As of this writing that is only District 21C. They will vote on Saturday, November 15th, to endorse a candidate. The third vote will be on Sunday, November 16th, wherein ALL three Districts, A, B and C, will vote to endorse a Multiple District candidate to run in Minneapolis. We will need you to send delegates from your clubs to be present for these important votes. Make plans now. It is also important that at the time of endorsement District 21C’s membership is above 1250 members. It currently stands at 1235 members. So, we URGE you not to drop any members until after the November election. You have already paid their dues to International and the District and Multiple District. So, please wait. Your second half dues is based on the November M Report so you will have plenty of time after the election to drop any members, if necessary. And why not add at least one new member to your club before this crucial vote, and help your District’s extension team put together one or two new clubs this fall. Submitted by PCC N. Alan Lundgren

HEAR YE HEAR YE HEAR YE

Submitted by PDG Norm Harbinson Lions Clubs International Convention is Coming July 6 thru 10, 2009 in Minneapolis, Minnesota MD 21 is to be in the Raddison University Hotel (shuttle buses will be available). Make out your registration and reserve your room at the delegated Hotel ($150.00) deposit The rooms will be held until December 31, 2008, after that the rooms will not be blocked and any Lion will be allowed to book a room at our Delegated Hotel. Please get your registration in early , we MD21 participated a big turn out, we will be having a delegate for International Director (PDG Dick Sawyer) and I am sure we will be in abundance to support our delegate. We will be having a breakfast and a caucus and meet the delegates. Watch for more inside scoop to be broadcast to MD21 Lions.

LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION
Update On Patient Who Had Pepsi Can Explode
By Executive Director Donna Rowe-Ruggeri

The lady you read about last month has had her second successful surgery to repair her retina. It’s amazing because she still has light perception and can read large letters written with a permanent marker felt pen. She is in the process of healing from this surgery and will require a cornea transplant as well. Without our help she would have lost her eye. Everyone please BE CAREFUL opening pop cans. Thank You Letter To LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION Received Today 9/15/08 Dear Lions, I would like to thank your agency for providing a hearing aid for my mother, Viola. She had struggled with hearing loss for a number of years but could not afford to purchase a hearing aid. Her case worker gave me your information and she was immediately approved. In no time we had an appointment with Miracle Ear in Tucson for a fitting. The entire process was very easy. Everyone we encountered was very professional and kind. Again, thank you for providing this service and allowing my mother a better quality-of-life. Sincerely, Marilyn NOTES: It’s time to think about obtaining your annual Arizona Charitable Tax Credit. An individual may obtain an Arizona Tax Credit by donating $200.00 to LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION, $400.00 for a family. This helps the working poor stay off welfare rolls. By giving YOU save. For more information call Donna at (602) 954-1723. ****If you attend the MD-21 Mid-Year Forum please stop by the LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION Hospitality Room. We hope you will attend an informative session on Friday, November 14th,TOPICS--- HOW INSURANCE COMPANIES GET OUT OT PAYING CLAIMS/WHAT CAN YOU DO? WHEN TO REFER PEOPLE TO LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION. SLIDE PRESENTATION FROM DR. GARY MACKMAN.

Lions Foundation of Arizona, Inc.
Submitted by: Lion George F. Hill, Exec.

Dir. Mother Nature Passes through LFA Campus August 28, 2008 Mother Nature passed though our campus leaving quite a mess. Tree branches were left scattered all over the campus grounds. The rain did cause some leaks in Building A and Building C. LFA has, for many years, put other projects in front of its own maintenance schedules. We are now faced with a project that cuts to the core of our finances. We need to repair and or replace roofing at our facility. We have had various bids and the cost involves patching some of the roof areas to completely rebuilding some of the roof areas with a new foam roofing system. Bid prices range from $ 15K to $ 50K. In this economic environment, the $50K bids appear to be quite a stretch. Lions Club of MD 21, we need your help! Along with vacancies and TLC expenses we are not able to cover all of the expenses. As long as the sun shines we are alright, but that won’t last indefinitely. At your next board of directors meeting please put our plight on your agenda. Any amount that you can designate to this project is appreciated.

MAURICE M. KAHAWAIl INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR

Maurice M. Kahawaii from Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, USA, was elected to serve a two-year term as a director of The International Association of Lions Clubs at the association’s 90th International Convention, held in Chicago, Illinois, USA, July 2-6, 2007. Director Kahawaii is a retired neighbor island terminal manager for Chevron USA. A member of the Kona Lions Club and a Lion since 1986, Director Kahawaii has held many offices within the association, including club president, zone chairperson, region chairperson and district governor. He has also served as district chairperson of MERL, Extension and LCIF. In recognition of his service to the association, Director Kahawaii has received numerous awards, including the District 50 Outstanding President Award, a Best Zone Award and several International President’s Certificates of Appreciation. He is also a Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow. In addition to his Lions activities, Director Kahawaii is active in numerous professional and community organizations. He is an officer in the Kona Hawaiian Civic Club and the AHA Hawaii ‘Oiwi, the Native Hawaiian Convention. He is also a member of the Royal Order of Kamehameha I, the Kona Toastmasters and the West Hawaiian Men’s Golf Club. In the past, he served on the board of directors for the Hilo Red Cross and the Hilo Boys and Girls Club, was president of the Big Island Fleet Safety Organization, was involved with the Aiea Jaycees, and served on the chambers of commerce for Kauai, Maui and Hawaii. Director Kahawaii and his wife, Lani, have a blended family of six children and six grandchildren.

EXTRA COPY OF THE LIONS MAGAZINE??

Are you a Lion with 1 or more family members who are also Lions in your club living at the same residence and only want to receive one copy of The Lion Magazine and the Canyon State Lion? Here are some solutions: Lions International suggests that you drop off the extra copy at your local public or school library, mail it to a local government leader, or place it in a waiting room at your place of business or any other suitable location. This way, non-Lions can access information about the association and its programs. Have your Secretary update your membership to a Family Unit*. Instructions for your Secretary can be found at the following web site: www3.lionsclubs.org/docs/family_unit_instructions_EN.pdf *Family Unit applies to existing or new Lions in and/or joining the same club and living in the same household related by birth, marriage and other legal means - such as parents, children, spouses, aunts/uncles, cousins, grandparents and in-laws of spouses.

Rental Space Available

LFA Complex, Phoenix Lions Foundation of Arizona has11,000 sq. ft. of below market rate rental space available. Lions Foundation of Arizona rents to non-profit agencies benefiting the disabled and under privileged. The spaces have a pool and many offices. It can reconfigured to suit your needs. Please contact Lion George F. Hill, Executive Director, 602-244-9758.

International President Al Brandel Wants to Meet You

International President Al Brandel and his wife Dr. Maureen Murphy
ed to fly directly from Africa to Arizona the middle of October for the last leg of their World Sight Tour. We are privileged to have them in Arizona since this will be the only United States stop for this tour.

This becomes a joint Arizona-New Mexico project since they have selected Window Rock as a place they wish to visit. The Window Rock Club is part of District 40-N, New Mexico. Through a joint effort, the President's party will have the opportunity to participate in some hands-on work as they assist people when the Arizona and New Mexico eye mobiles are in Window Rock on October 16th. They will also meet with the Navajo Nation's President Dr. Joe Shirley and various other Tribal representatives for lunch. If you would like to be in Window Rock that Thursday, please email Ann Roberts (LionAnnR@aol.com) so we can have jobs for you. (It is possible we may have to limit the number of Lions in attendance.) President Brandel and his party will have additional hands-on experiences as they work at the Arizona Lions Vision Center and in a separate event helping with diabetes screening for people with low incomes.

The best part is President Brandel wants to meet you! There will be a special poolside reception at the Cottonwoods Resort (6160 North Scottsdale Road) on Wednesday, October 15th between 7: and 9:PM. Appetizers and a cash bar will be available. You must contact PDG Fred Garmeson by October 10th to make a reservation (garmesonfaz@aol.com or 480/895-9363). Sports clothes will be appropriate and don't forget to wear your Lions pin!

The Lions Quest Program Committee is still in existence! Our most recent Grant from LCIF has ended, but with the generous donations from we still have funds to provide three more trainings while a grant proposal for additional funding is being written.

The donations received from MD 21Lions Clubs are a needed source of funds. With the help of all clubs it is possible to make the Lions Quest Program self-supporting with only minor assistance from grants.

At this time we need more than donations. We need Lions volunteers. If you are a teacher, or a Lion who would like to be involved in the development of the Grant proposal or the promotion of Lions Quest Programs, you are needed! Contact me, Lion Pat Tejada or your District Governor. The school children of Arizona need your help!

This is a letter from a 39 year-old woman describing her unfortunate accident. We are performing a second surgery on her now and she will need a third surgery (cornea transplant) after she heals from this one.

Dear Lions,
On July 9th, in the early evening I opened up a diet Pepsi can and before I could even pull the tab all the way - the can exploded with a sound like a shot gun.
I was so shaken, at first I was stunned. I turned around to my boyfriend who was standing about 14 feet behind me, I called out, “I need you help, then I fell to the ground.” I laid there kicking and crying as he ran in the house to get a cool compress. I was so scared and kept asking him where the pop can tab was. He looked on the ground, on the can, he couldn't find it. Then I realized, O NO it's STILL in my eye. My boyfriend rushed me to the emergency room and then I was air evacuated to Scottsdale/Osborn Trauma Center (where they removed the tab). Then I went to a retina specialist who said it was very deep and then put my eye back together putting 29 stitches across my eye to hold it together.
I needed a vitrectomy within two weeks or there would be more permanent damage. I'm now blind in that eye. I can only see lights and very bold letters made with a large magic marker. I'm so scared that I won't be able to have this surgery because, without it, I will permanently loose my eye. I have no insurance and no way to pay for this. Right now I'm sitting here on very borrowed time.
NOTE: The LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION has scheduled her vitrectomy and will also do her cornea transplant later on. We wish to advise everyone to please LOOK AWAY FROM A CAN OF POP WHEN YOU PULL THE TAB and DO wear eye protection when doing work that could send obstacles or chemicals into your eyes.

Bangkok Convention

The Lions of the World gathered in Bangkok, Thailand, June 24^th to June 27^th, 2008, to celebrate the 91^st International Convention of Lions Clubs International, and from the moment we stepped off the plane at Bangkok International Airport to the moment we left thru a special departure gate thru customs just for Lions, the Lions of Thailand showed the world how wonderful they are as hosts.  Of all the International Conventions I have been to, this was by far the finest when it came to Hospitality and feeling so welcome by not only the Lions of Thailand but by the people of Thailand.  Thailand is the “land of SMILES,” and it was certainly visible EVERYWHERE we went.  We truly felt at home.

Arizona was well represented as one of the larger delegations from the United States with 21 registered Lions, 2 Leos and 1 spouse.  It was also great to have PCC Vic and Lion Winnie join us from Manila as part of our delegation.  The convention kicked off with the evening Parade on Tuesday…this time we marched in the middle, 88^th out of 158 units.  Even had our usual 10 minutes of rain while we waited.

Wednesday morning saw the Opening Plenary Session, the out-going President’s address, and the FABULOUS Parade of Nations of Lionism.  In the afternoon we that the “Sawasdee” pre International Bazaar prior to the “Sawasdee” International Show that featured music and cultures of Thailand.  Wow, what an experience.

Thursday at the Second Plenary Session we had the Memorial Service, the Keynote Address, LCIF & SightFirst II, Nominations for 2^nd Vice President and for Int’l Directors.

Friday, of course, starting with the delegates voting for the Executive officers and the International Directors as well as the amendments to the By-laws and/or Constitution.  All ballot measures passed.  The most note-worthy of the amendments was the passage of a Resolution to establish the offices of FIRST and SECOND Vice District Governors.  The other three items were basically housekeeping matters.  All passed.

With that the 91^st International Convention ended to be convened next year in Minneapolis, MN, USA.

N. Alan Lundgren, Int’l Convention Chairman.

Board Member Visits Camp Tatiyee

By Pearl Nancarrow

One of the very best things about being a board member for Camp T. is the privilege to visit the camp while the campers are present.  Every year I look forward to seeing the kids having fun among their peers and talking with them.  I am in total admiration of the counselors; those “Average, ordinary, everyday superheroes” that are there for the campers day after day all summer long, dispensing hugs, smiles, gentle discipline, patience, and encouragement.

Visiting the girls’ cabins, I saw the bright new curtains sewn by Lion Steve Ellis’s 80 year old mom. What a difference those curtains make!  Conversation with the campers, even though they were deaf, wasn’t difficult.  Many read lips, or have partial hearing.  I was given a quickie lesson in sign language by the teen girls, and learned signs for “thank you, you’re welcome, OK, pretty, colorful, and swim”.  Otherwise, a “thumbs up” and a big smile worked well.

It was “Water Fun Day”.  Groups were formed, and I tagged along with the one headed to the Moore Sports Court.  The counselors had prepared several activities, all involving water. The equipment consisted of wet sponges, huge water guns, hoses, water filled balloons, large buckets and water based paint.  This was the first day of camp, and two little boys didn’t want to participate.  They were gently urged to join in, but when they refused, were told it was OK to sit and watch. One was reluctant because he had some stitches from a recent mishap and had been told to be careful. The other was shy.  Eventually, both joined in and had fun. The counselors were wonderful, taking all this in stride.

Next, we went to the ball field for a game of “Kick Ball Slip and Slide”.  It is classic kick ball, only the last ten feet before each base had a thick plastic pad made slick with the addition of water and “tearless” baby shampoo.  The technique is to run fast, then slide on one’s tummy up to the base.  What fun!  What excitement!

Throughout the morning, counselors made sure campers stayed hydrated.  Every twenty minutes, a water break was called, play stopped, and a line formed by the big Igloo cooler.  Everyone was handed a cup, and told to drink up, seconds were encouraged.

Kids forget to drink enough water, especially while playing in it. Counselors watched the kids closely, and would often ask campers “Are you OK?  Do you need to rest?” or “Do you need a drink?”  All the counselors use sign language, and also speak to the children face to face.  This is important, because many of them lip read to some extent.

Soon it was lunch time.  Campers eat meals “family style” with two or three counselors at each table.  I asked one small girl what was the best thing, so far, about camp.  “The food”, was her reply!

I would urge every Camp Tatiyee board member to try to visit the camp at least once during the season.  It is a real joy to see what we Lions have brought to the lives of Arizona’s “differently-abled” citizens.

Anyone can take part by sponsoring a camper!  Lions and non-lions can do this. Camp Tatiyee is a non profit organization supported by the Lions Clubs of Arizona. Campers range in age from 7 to adult, and are physically or mentally challenged, deaf or blind or multiply handicapped.  Individuals or groups: to sponsor a camper or donate to the camp (a 501-C 3 tax deductible opportunity), please make checks payable to Lions Camp Tatiyee, Inc. PO Box 6910 Mesa, AZ 85216.  For more information go to: www.Arizonalionscamp.org (The kids will love you for it!)

Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation Executive Director Honored

On the evening of July 12th, friends gathered for dinner to celebrate Donna’s 20 years of service to LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION.  Many wonderful memories were shared by those in attendance. We are looking forward to many more years of her service and continued growth of the Foundation.

Masters of Ceremony were PID Joe Preston and PCC Bob Lee. President Jackie Acorn started off the evening and thanked everyone for their participation and help. Lots of people contributed.  It was held at the Clubhouse of Longhaven West Mobile Home Park, thanks to former Board Member Lion Al Coir. Invocation was by PDG and former Board Member Les Daviet ll, the Pledge was led by DG Thomas Spering.  Many contributed memories and thoughts that were shared one-by-one.  Actually, Donna wanted a “roast” but it didn’t turn out that way.

Again, a sincere THANKS to all who did so much to make the evening a wonderful memory.

Lions Raise More Than US$200 Million to Save Sight

Submitted by PID John Walker

Bangkok, Thailand, June 26, 2008—Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) and Lions around the world have exceeded their campaign challenge goal of US$200 million for their flagship, global blindness-prevention program, SightFirst. Funds raised during Campaign SightFirst II (CSFII), a three-year worldwide campaign operated by the international charitable foundation, will save or restore the vision of more than 37 million people around the world.

Led by 7,000 CSFII Lion volunteers, Lions surpassed their initial US$150 million goal in February, four months in advance of CSFII’s conclusion. During the final month of the campaign alone, Lions raised more than US$20 million to surpass the US$200 million challenge goal.

“The efforts of Lions worldwide over the last three years make me incredibly proud to be a Lion,” says Dr. Tae-Sup Lee, Lions past international president and CSFII chairperson. “Through CSFII, our role as ‘Knights of the Blind’ will continue for years to come because of the dedication of our volunteers and all of our donors. Most importantly, LCIF and Lions will be able to continue to deliver the excellent services of the SightFirst program and thereby ensure that millions of individuals around the world are able to live with the gift of sight.”

At least US$100 million of CSFII funds will be granted through LCIF’s SightFirst program to contain and eliminate the leading causes of avoidable blindness, including cataract, the leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide.

Another US$50 million will be used to combat new and emerging threats to sight, including diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and low vision. The funds raised beyond the US$150 million initial goal will make it possible for Lions to fund research and rehabilitation initiatives in developed countries. Lions’ goal is to provide “Vision for All.”

SightFirst was launched by Lions in 1989 to battle preventable and reversible blindness. Lions estimate US$6 is the average cost to save or restore a person’s sight through SightFirst. Lions have already restored sight to more than 27 million people by funding cataract surgeries, vision screenings and treatment, and improved eye-care services for hundreds of millions of people in underserved areas in 91 countries around the world. Lions have also built eye hospitals in developing countries and trained eye health care workers where there were previously none.

CSFII officially concluded during the 91st Annual Lions Clubs International Convention in Bangkok, Thailand on Thursday, June 26 when the final dollar amount raised was announced. More than 18,000 Lions clubs members, including international media, from around the world were present for this historic announcement for LCIF.

This year the Internal Revenue Service has instituted new tax filing requirements for tax exempt organizations (this includes all clubs which are 501(c)(4) tax exempt and foundations which are 501(c)(3) tax exempt.
In the past, if a club had gross receipts of $25,000 or less, it was exempt from filing a tax return. This year, if a club still falls in this range, it must file the new 990-N tax return. If the club's gross receipts are over the $25,000 threshold, it needs to file the 990-EZ or 990 tax form as it has in the past.
All funds collected by a club are included in the gross receipts calculation. This includes dues collected by the club and then sent to LCI, the MD and District. Other funds that must be included the gross receipts are those funds collected by Club Branches and Lioness and Leo Clubs sponsored by the main Club. According to IRS policy they are all part of your CLUB's gross receipts.
The 990-N tax form is only available electronically (there is no paper form). It can be found at www.epostcard.form990.org. The club will need its organization's Employer Identification Number (EIN) in order to log on to the web site to file. The club will only be able to access the 990-N form after the close of your tax year.
If the club did not previously submit its EIN to the IRS, the site may tell you that your EIN is invalid. Each October, LCI sends a form to each Lions Club asking that this information be sent to the IRS. If the club is told that its EIN is invalid, call Customer Account Services at 1-877-829-5500. Ask them to set up your organization to allow filing of the e-postcard.
Once you are admitted to the website, you will be asked for the following:
Organization's legal name
Mailing address
Website address if you have one
EIN
Name and address of a principal officer
Organization's annual tax year (usually July 1 - June 30)
Confirmation that organization's gross receipts are normally $25,000 or less
The club will have until the 15th day of the 5th month after the close of its tax year to file. It is best to get it done as soon as possible before you forget. If the club fails to file for 3 consecutive years, it will lose its tax-exempt status.
Remember that both 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(3) organizations are tax-exempt, but only donations to 501(c)(3) organizations can possibly be taken as a deduction on individual or business tax returns.

Expectations met reality! That was the conclusion drawn from the 2nd Faculty Development Institute held at the Grace Inn in Ahwatukee the weekend of May 30, 31 and June 1, 2008. Eighteen Arizona Lions were asked the first day what they expected to gain from their participation in the institute. They expected to show improvement in their presentation skills, make better presentations, be better equipped, gain confidence, speak well no matter what size audience, and be a better Lion. At the conclusion of the institute the participants made written evaluations. They indicated they gained from the institute what they had expected. Many said this was the best Lion leadership program they had participated in their Lionistic careers. Wow!
The institute was organized by PDG Richard Sawyer along with PID John Walker. Lion Sawyer along with PDG John Hart, and DG Cathy Comeaux of MD 8, Louisiana were the faculty who guided and provided instruction to the eighteen enthusiastic MD 21 Lions. PID Walker handled the video equipment used in recording all the presentations and providing copies to the participants. The participants freely gave their time and interest for the institute. District 21-A was represented by Lions Richard Hopkins and Mike Shine. The Lions from District 21-B were Tom Spering, Su-Lin Trepanitis, Priscilla White, Pearl Nancarrow, Mimi Wittenborn, Carl Johannesen, Mac Davey, Chip Kline, Moe Sinsley, Christian Bautista, and Shawn Dunn. District 21 C was represented by Lions Phil and Sandy Phillips, Bill Schafer, Mike Kenny and Allen Fogel.
The participants brought eagerness, enthusiasm, and energy. The Leadership division of Lions Clubs International developed the institute's curriculum. All the participants benefited from the experience which culminated on Sunday with individual, fifteen minute presentations that incorporated the presentation elements the faculty brought to them. The specific areas of instruction included presentation skills, visual aids, the characteristics of adult learners, guiding interactive learning, lesson design, and managing training sessions. The changes in the students from their initial Friday presentation to their Sunday project was very apparent and demonstrated they did apply what they had learned.
Many thanks go to MD 21 and Lions Clubs International for their funding this institute which made this event possible. The faculty is to be congratulated for a job well done in their presentations. The participants are to be congratulated for their interest, giving their time, and their sharing in the experience. MD 21 now has more trained Lions who can do presentations for their clubs, zones, regions, and multiple district activities. A win-win situation for all.

As of June 9, 2008 Campaign SightFirst II raised $180,769,667.01. Our Multiple (21A, 21B & 21C) contributed (cash & pledges) $508,926.70. Our Sector (MD21, MD40, &D50) raised $924,325.11. PID Joe Preston, with five Sector Coordinators working under him is now ranked number ONE out of forty-six in the world.
It is still not too late for clubs or individuals to make a contribution or a pledge to CSFII. Remember, on a worldwide average, $6 can save a person's sight. Should you need a form with which to make the contribution or pledge, please call Lion Robin Daviet at 602-739-4547, Lion VDGE Su-Lin Trepanitis at 520-661-4909, Lion Dave Webster at 480-827-0398, or PCC Bob Jones at 505-286-6267?

Saturday, June 21, Camp Tatiyee was buzzing with activity, preparing for Open House the next day. Barbara Daily and Barbara Shine headed up the team of Lions and a parent volunteer in assembling and cataloging over 100 goody baskets and prize envelopes for a silent auction and items for the raffle drawings.
Food and supplies were purchased and picked up; Barbara Russell was heading up a golf tournament to benefit the camp that morning; and a Board of Trustees meeting was held. Camp Tatiyee counselors were preparing for the onrush of the next set of campers coming in on Sunday. Everyone was working hard and hoping for good weather and good attendance the following day.
Early Sunday morning, the Lions working under Council Chairman Ron Brown, who was in charge of the food for the event, went into overdrive. There were cakes to cut, slaw and potato salad to be mixed, beans to be heated and shredded beef to be prepared.
Out at the pavilion, tables had to be washed, serving tables arranged and covered, heavy duty electric cords and pigtails to be put in place to keep the hot foods hot, and large ice bowls prepared to keep the cold salads cold. All the paper goods, buns, beverage coolers and plastic ware were taken out and readied.
Another group was setting out speakers, more electric cords, microphones and a Karaoke system. Several camp counselors were in charge of the “limos”, the large electric carts that were pressed into service to take visitors on tours of the camp. Ambassador Leader dogs and puppies in training with their handlers came to visit and show their abilities.
Sunday at 11 a.m. everyone and everything was in place as the food service began, tickets were being sold, campers were arriving and the festivities were underway.
Entertainment was a decade by decade retrospective of music, beginning in the '50s and up to the present. The combination Karaoke/talent show brought out some acts that were very polished and some very funny, with others being a bit strange. Past International Director Joe Preston even got into the act with “Potion No. 9”.
The entertainment culminated with the incoming campers performing the “Camp Tatiyee Song” sung to the tune of “Yellow Submarine” and done in sign language for the new campers, who are deaf youngsters.
The weather was wonderful, attendance was good, the barbeque was tasty, the prize drawings and auction made money and after a couple hours of clean-up, the Open House was deemed a great success.
To the Lions who worked so hard to make this all come about - we couldn't have done it without you!

Camp Tatiyee has had some wonderful success stories throughout the past fifty years. Adding up the successes is difficult, and I am certain I am falling short on the organizations and people involved. Literally, thousands of lives have been touched by Lions Camp Tatiyee. Thousands of Arizona's mentally and physically disabled have been, and are being served by attending Lions camp.
But they are not the only ones. This story is about the many more thousands of people in the fifty years who have served FOR the camp. Lions Serve. Lions and non-lions, those who have worked for pay and those who did not, have all been touched these fifty years by contributing to the success story of Lions Camp Tatiyee.
Fifty years of contractors, employees of the camp, donors of materials and money, and volunteers have left their legacy. The Camp Tatiyee success stories must specifically include the founders, contributors, and the wise leadership of the board directors and members over the years.
We cannot forget the sponsors, grant writers, carolers, and the visiting public at Christmas Lights and those who contribute to, and have attended Open Houses every year. The success story includes volunteers; every member of all the Lions clubs in Arizona, and many, many Boy and Girl Scout troupes, Leos, Lionesses, church youth groups and more; not only now but from 1958 onward. Our story must include fire fighters from the whole state of Arizona, the Arizona Forest Service, Fish and Game, and the Family Fun Park next door. We will not forget the work of seamstresses who made curtains and embroidered names on shirts; those who came to clean, paint, repair, assemble furniture, move rocks, rake, and willingly pitched in on the humblest duties during work weekends that have been held every year.
What a success story! What a wonderful place the Lions have made here! What a huge, sustained group effort this has been! As with any good story, we all want a happy ending, a “forever after” continuation.
Lions Camp Tatiyee deserves this continuation. In order to ensure the “forever after”, we need our biggest push, our best efforts this year. It is absolutely crucial, with the hearings for the land campaign coming up that we all stand by to aid our camp. We must promote and financially back Lions Camp Tatiyee. The camp was faced with a crisis this year, a funding shortfall. We would not have been able to stay open as long or serve as many campers. Thanks to our Lions clubs, this was averted. If each Lions club in Arizona could do their usual contributions for Camp Tatiyee, and just a little more - perhaps to the tune of one campership more - we could avert this kind of crisis. One way is to go outside your club, and ask others in the community to donate. It could be as simple as to put out cans in supermarkets, etc. to send a person to camp. If you belong to another club or group, arrange for a speaker from Camp Tatiyee to speak to that group.
Camp Tatiyee is a non-profit organization supported by the Lions Clubs of Arizona. All donations and donation fees are used for the improvement of the camp and for the benefit of the campers (who are not charged fees to attend) from June through the first week in August. Campers range in age from 7 to adult, and are physically or mentally challenged, deaf, blind or multiply handicapped. The cost of sponsoring a camper for one week is $650.00. Individuals or groups choosing to donate to the camp (a 501-C 3 tax deductible opportunity) may make checks payable to Lions Camp Tatiyee, Inc.; PO Box 6910; Mesa, AZ 85216. For more information on donations and camperships, call the camp at 480-380-4254, or go to our website www.Arizonalionscamp.org.

Boy Scouts from Gold Canyon Troop 219 gathered at Lions Camp Tatiyee nears Lakeside, AZ last Saturday to help member Vijesh Tanna carry out his Eagle Scout project by lifting, digging, fitting and leveling rock.
Several tons of flag stone needed to be laid out evenly in a court area around the flag pole, to make it wheelchair accessible. Eight young men aged 11 to 17 and three adults arrived at the camp to begin work at 6 am on Saturday, April 26. Except for breakfast and lunch breaks, the boys worked hard until 3 pm.
Eagle Scout candidate Tanna heard about Camp Tatiyee through participation in “Best Buddies” at his school. His mother gathered more information, and he contacted Pam Swanson, Camp Director to see what direction his project would take.
Best Buddies is a nation-wide school program that matches students with intellectual disabilities with other students, creating one-to-one friendships. When people with disabilities are unable to attain or maintain a job, it is most often due to an absence of social skills rather than an inability to perform the work required. Best Buddies introduces socialization opportunities and job coaching, providing necessary tools for people with intellectual disabilities to become more independent and, consequently, more included in the community.
Camp Tatiyee is a non profit organization supported by the Lions Clubs of Arizona. Campers range in age from 7 to adult, and are physically or mentally challenged, deaf or blind or multiply handicapped. Individuals or groups: to sponsor a camper or donate to the camp (a 501-C 3 tax deductible opportunity), please make checks payable to Lions Camp Tatiyee, Inc. PO Box 6910 Mesa, AZ 85216. For more information go to: www.Arizonalionscamp.org
Pearl Nancarow, Camp Tatiyee board member, Publicity committee
Photo caption #1 L-R Andy Tanna (father), Vijesh Tanna, Josh Ryerse, Austin McCormick, Brandon Mc Cormick, Michael Orr, Jason Hefter, Josh Hefter and Jon Bodlovich standing in front of stacks of flag stones.
Photo caption # 2 Boy Scout Troup hard at work, laying flag stones for Camp Tatiyee

WOW…there has been a lot of training since January. I want to thank all the presenters; PCC Jerry Allen, PDG John Hart, PDG Dick Sawyer, PDG Phil Castrovinci, PID John Walker, PID Dave Roberts, PDG Larry Colbert CC Ron Brown and PCC Joan Williamson for all their efforts and help with the Zone Chair training, Officers Training and the DG school training. The mentioned Lions did a great job with their presentations and we all appreciated their time and effort.

In January we had over 50 at our Zone and MERL training. On April 5, 2008 the 19 Zone chairs were trained. We had officers training for all clubs on April 5, 2008 in Peoria, AZ, April 12, 2008 in Tucson, AZ and April 26, 2008. All together we trained 53 Presidents, 35 Vice Presidents, 35 Secretaries, 21 Treasurer's, 1 Secretary/Treasurer and 1 Lioness Liaison.

To all the club officers that were unable to attend any training please contact your District Leadership Chair to arrange whatever training you may need.

Please all club secretaries for the year 08-09 put the following dates on your club calendar so there will be no conflicts with your activities and the new officer will be able to attend. April 4, 2009 in Peoria, April 18, 2009 in Tucson, April 25, 2009 in Flagstaff. The District Vice Governors along with the Cabinet Secretaries and Treasurers will be May 7, 8 and 9th 2009.

I personally want to thank all the Lions that took time out from their busy schedules to attend the Officers and Zone Training. To those who attended, please urge next year's officers to attend their training.

The Multiple District can and should be proud of our District and Vice District Governors for this next Lionistic year 2008-2009, they are really prepared and are working as teams.
I also want to once again thank my wife PCC Joan for all her help in keeping the registration books for the officers training.

I have several items to report:

o I have a new job
o International has hinted that M.D. 21 can very possibly elect a Director to the International Board, should we select the right candidate.
o My candidacy for Second Vice President of Lions Club International is temporarily on hold, but I am still seeking the opportunity to serve our Association as its president.
o Two of my International Committee jobs are coming to successful ends.

Let me begin with “I have a new job”.

I recently accepted a position with Sanderson Ford in Glendale. I will be doing virtually the same thing that I have done with my previous employer. I feel privileged to have joined the Fleet Team at Sanderson Ford. They believe I can take Fleet Sales to the next level and I am confident that I can do this also. Sanderson Ford is the largest Ford Agency in Arizona.

I was with my former employer for 17 years and it was a very thought out move to leave them, but the decision was made and we are still friends. I view this move as a great opportunity monetarily and this move fits into the overall strategy of our campaign for Vice President.

When International suggested that M.D. 21 could very possibly elect a Director to the International Board within the next couple of years, Joni and I made the decision to support this opportunity for the Multiple and put our campaign on a temporary hold for the next three or so years. This allows us to finish my current jobs for International.

I will finish my responsibilities with my Campaign Sightfirst II this year as well as my Chairmanship of the U.S. Steering Committee for Lions Quest. With these two responsibilities completed I will have more time to work on the campaign.

I will be supporting the Candidate for Director in an active capacity and this process will fit into our strategy of the campaign for Vice President. Traveling and speaking in support of our candidate will provide great visibility for our campaign.

The move to Sanderson Ford and the opportunity to earn more money also fits into our plans. Sanderson is a family owned Agency and they pay their employees well if they perform well and that is the goal. It will take substantial money to sustain ourselves once we are elected Second Vice President.

Currently, I am commuting between Dewey and Glendale. We are looking at other options and possibly could buy a second home in the valley.

We feel very comfortable with this new opportunity because it fits so well into our overall strategy to someday soon become President of Lions Clubs International.

I hope this report answers any questions that any of you might have about this new opportunity. We want all of our friends in Arizona to be fully aware of our plans and strategy. We want to serve as President of L.C.I. but recognize that we need the support of all of our Lions friends here in Arizona.

My office at Sanderson Ford is located at 6400 North 51st Avenue in Glendale. My direct telephone number is 623-930-5910, or you can reach me toll free at 800-729-2593. Come visit me and “test drive a new Ford”.

This year the Internal Revenue Service has instituted new tax filing requirements for tax exempt organizations (this includes all clubs which are 501(c)(4) tax exempt and foundations which are 501(c)(3) tax exempt.
In the past, if a club had gross receipts of $25,000 or less, it was exempt from filing a tax return. This year, if a club still falls in this range, it must file the new 990-N tax return. If the club's gross receipts are over the $25,000 threshold, it needs to file the 990-EZ or 990 tax form as it has in the past.
All funds collected by a club are included in the gross receipts calculation. This includes dues collected by the club and then sent to LCI, the MD and District. Other funds that must be included the gross receipts are those funds collected by Club Branches and Lioness and Leo Clubs sponsored by the main Club. According to IRS policy they are all part of your CLUB's gross receipts.
The 990-N tax form is only available electronically (there is no paper form). It can be found at www.epostcard.form990.org. The club will need its organization's Employer Identification Number (EIN) in order to log on to the web site to file. The club will only be able to access the 990-N form after the close of your tax year.
If the club did not previously submit its EIN to the IRS, the site may tell you that your EIN is invalid. Each October, LCI sends a form to each Lions Club asking that this information be sent to the IRS. If the club is told that its EIN is invalid, call Customer Account Services at 1-877-829-5500. Ask them to set up your organization to allow filing of the e-postcard.
Once you are admitted to the website, you will be asked for the following:
Organization's legal name
Mailing address
Website address if you have one
EIN
Name and address of a principal officer
Organization's annual tax year (usually July 1 - June 30)
Confirmation that organization's gross receipts are normally $25,000 or less
The club will have until the 15th day of the 5th month after the close of its tax year to file. It is best to get it done as soon as possible before you forget. If the club fails to file for 3 consecutive years, it will lose its tax-exempt status.
Remember that both 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(3) organizations are tax-exempt, but only donations to 501(c)(3) organizations can possibly be taken as a deduction on individual or business tax returns.

The Lions of Arizona turned out once again and did what they do best “WE SERVE” and you did for the Special Olympians on Saturday May 3rd. The event was once again held at the Wells Fargo Arena in Tempe and you worked with approximately 200 special needs people, this is the closest figure we have. A big, big thank you goes to Lion Barbara Shine for stepping up to the plate and doing my job since I couldn't be there this year. Thank you to the five Leos who volunteered and to the families of Lions who gave of their time to serve. There were a total of 56 Lions and Guests plus the 5 Leos for a total of 61 volunteers. Thank you Chandler Lions and their Leo; Mesa Citrus Gardens, Mesa East, Tempe Sun Devil; Glendale Bellair, Glendale Evening/Longhaven, Peoria Pioneer, Peoria Sunset, Phoenix Metro, Sun City West Pioneer, Surprise Grand and their Leos. We also had a young man from Accent Eye Care volunteer with us. Again, thank you once again.

This summer Camp Tatiyee (Tah tee yea) will celebrate the 50th session of camping for
challenged kids and adults in the beautiful pines of Pinetop-Lakeside. Throughout the summer there will be week-long sessions for youngsters and adults with different problems and a chance for them to learn that they too can enjoy living in a log cabin, swimming in an indoor pool, participating in sports, fishing, drama productions and costume parties! Campers come from all over our state, and many have returned for several years.

For the most part, counselors are college students learning the skills of helping physically and mentally challenged individuals. Many of them return for two or three years, developing fast friendships with the campers.

This summer on June 22 there will be great barbeque where-in visitors
can meet campers and counselors, tour the camp, and enjoy a great meal
with raffles and entertainment. For details, phone George Spears at 928 474-

The three 2008-2009 District Governor Elects announce their selection for Council Chair
for next year. Immediate Past District Governor Phil Castrovinci was selected after an interview
process with all interested candidates. IPDG Phil brings a wealth of experience and knowledge
to this challenging position.

Imagine pedaling a mountain bike 2668 miles from Mexico to Canada through the Rocky Mountains along the Continental Divide - the ridge dividing the eastern part of the U.S. from the West. Imagine spending 68 days straight on that bike, travelling around 40 miles per day - at elevations up to 12,000 feet. And imagine that you will be pulling a trailer carrying your tent and food and water weighing 70 pounds with you - no supply caravan on this trip. Most of us get tired just thinking about it - but Tucson Rincon Lions Club president Naran Patel is game to go - to raise funds for Campaign Sight First II. Patel aims to raise $15,000 - enough to save the sight of 2500 people or one person for each mile he rides. A 67 year old retired international banker from Chicago, Patel has run marathons and biked cross country but never tried mountain biking before. He will leave Antelope Wells, New Mexico on the Mexican border May 23 - and plans to arrive in Banff, Canada on July 30, 2008. He will be riding the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) through New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming and Montana and another 165 miles into Canada. The GDMBR is the longest mountain bike dirt route in the world and crosses the Continental Divide 29 times. About 80% of the ride is on dirt roads through the Rocky Mountains. Elevations for the ride range from 2500 feet in Montana to 11,480 feet in Colorado. Temperatures will range from 100 degrees at the start of the ride in the Chihuahuan Desert in southern New Mexico to 30 degrees at night in the Rockies of Colorado. Patel will make the trip with three other men ranging in age from 55 to 65. The group includes a teacher from New Mexico and two riders from Phoenix and Philadelphia. Patel is the only Lion in the group and has dedicated his ride to raising money for Campaign Sight First II. Clubs or individuals interested in helping to save the sight of one person for each mile of the ride may send checks to Tucson Rincon Lion Sally Moffett at 8987 Tanqe Verde #309-310, Tucson, Arizona 85749. Additional information is available from Sally at 520-760-0152 or scmoffett@yahoo.com

Lions plan to help at the Spring Opening Eyes Special Olympics by volunteering in Tempe on Saturday May 3rd.

We will need 60 to 70 volunteers again this year so start notifying me as soon as possible if you can work that day. I don’t have all the particulars yet but we usually volunteer from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and we usually do split shifts but I’ll get back to you with more information as I get it.

Please contact PCC Joan Williamson either by phone at 623-934-9579 or by e-mail at: jwlion@ctcaz.com no later than April 25th with your name, phone number, if you can work the entire shift or if you can work the first or second shift and we thank you for your support of this project.

It’s that time again.  It’s spring cleaning time!  Yes, it’s time to make the old camp sparkle and shine for the campers and for our 50th Anniversary and annual Open House.  The dates are: April 25 – 26 – 27, May 2 – 3 – 4, and May 9 – 10 – 11.  These dates are Fridays through noon on Sundays.

Lions, it is more fun if you can arrange to go with your Club members as a group, or take your family.  Yes- bring the kids, they can work too.  (It’s good Lions training. Get the spirit of volunteerism started early!)  Come up Friday evening, so you are ready for Saturday morning. 

Honestly, I feel like a kid again when I go to these work weekends!  I pack my sleeping bag, pillow and jammies, hat, work gloves, and an extra set of clothes.  I get to sleep in the cabins, and eat three meals on Saturday, and two on Sunday that I don’t have to cook! It’s a kick to be up in the cool, clean pine-scented air of Lakeside.  The camp has all the tools, rags, cleaning supplies and other stuff needed, or they’ll get it.

If you have any special talents- carpentry, electrical or plumbing expertise YOU are a MVV!  (Most Valued Volunteer).  Let the contact person know you can do these special chores.   Actually, most of the jobs are pretty easy, like painting hand rails and the bleachers, or raking, or laying ten tons of flagstone.  (Well, that last one probably isn’t so easy).  Chose a weekend (or two if you can), round up some fellow Lions, family members or friends.  Call Dick or Linda first because they have to know how many people will be eating, and maybe I will see you up there.

Contact for reservations, Dick and Linda Bragg:  928-537-2421, or e mail rmdickbragg@frontiernet.net

As of March 6, 2008 we, the Lions of the World, have raised $146,828,097 in cash and pledges.  Our Worldwide Report day on February 20 showed cash and pledges (some which has not be submitted officially) at $157 million.

 Multiple District 21, has raised $459,142.37 in cash and pledges, and paid in $389,523.62.  These funds have been raised by one Lioness Club, and eighty-eight  (63%) of 140 Lions Clubs in MD21. A big thank you the clubs and Lions who have participated so far.  How about the remaining fifty-two clubs helping out?  Even small amounts will help. 

 Clubs can still make pledges that go three or five years out, and so can individual Lion members.  Non-Lions and Lion Members can also make tax-deductible contributions to CSFII.  Remember, six dollars on average, will save the sight of one person through SightFirst II.  Members and clubs, we need your help as we go for the $200 million challenge goal. Need information, please call your CSFII District Coordinator: Lion Robin Daviet - 602-827-0398, Lion Su-Lin Trepanitis – 520-661-4909, Lion Dave Webster – 480-827-0398.  Need other CSFII information, please call Lion Bob Jones at 505-286-6267

Arizona Lions Clubs have a good record of serving others, in our communities, our state and with our neighbors in Mexico – but the Phoenix Phil-Am Lions Club of District 21-C reaches around the world to give the gift of sight.  The Phil-Am Lions just completed their fifth Medical Mission to the Philippine Islands – one of the most rewarding experiences any Lion could have.

Dr. Rey Vito started the program in the late 1990s, getting his club to take a medical mission to the Philippines, where cataract surgeries were performed in one of the remote areas of the islands.  Since then, the club has sent a medical team a total of five times, with surgeons to perform eye surgery and an optician to perform eye exams and present glasses to those who have impaired vision.

Those who worked the latest mission returned in late February after being able to tally a total of 174 surgeries, over 1900 eye exams and giving out 4264 pair of glasses to those who needed them.

This is somewhat of a miracle considering the tremendous cost of the mission, plus forming a team of 36, all volunteers,  to make this happen.  The planning is intense since the site the team uses for the surgeries, in most cases, is not up to the standards of hospitals in the U.S., and with the fact that all equipment and medical supplies to be used must be shipped or taken with the team when they make the trip.

As if in competition with themselves, each mission sets a goal on how many surgeries can be done, and on each mission the team tries to better their last record. 

Key to making this happen is Dr. Conrad Ballecer, who was the overall chairperson this year, with Phil-Am Club President Ethel Luzario being in charge of the administration part of the project.  The team included three surgeons, many nurses and medical personnel, plus Optician Jeannette Russell of the Arizona Lions Vision Center, and a team of volunteers.  Financing comes from a matching grant from Lions Clubs International Foundation, plus help from Alcon Laboratories in providing medical supplies, and the Feed My People International organization, which provided help with shipping the surgical equipment needed.   Added to this,  the club itself has a huge responsibility in financing and bringing the project together.

The glasses were provided by the Arizona Lions Eyeglass Recycling Terminal, a District 21-B project.  A total of 6,000 pair of recycled glasses were clean, “read”  and tagged with the prescription for the mission by  ALERT members Lions Bill and Sally Manley, Su-Lin Trepanitis, Barbara Daily and Barbara Wisbrock

Advance work includes finding a Lions club or multiple clubs that want to help sponsor the mission in the host country.  In this case, the mission was in Bacolod, a city on one of the southern islands, where there were 16 clubs in the area who all participated in the event, first in the planning and then in the actual volunteer work. These clubs made arrangements for the hospital and a site for the eyeglasses screening, booked rooms for the team and provided some evening banquets and box lunches each day.  This gracious group of Lions were outstanding.

Nurse Beth Hurley is the key person who takes care of details, letting Alcon Laboratories know exactly what supplies and equipment are needed, down to the smallest q-tip.  She is also the one who does a protocol manual outlining exactly what the schedule will be, exactly who does what when we arrive, and supervises the arrival of all supplies – some shipped and some that are carried on the plane as part of team members’ luggage.

Three eye surgeons are the key to the hospital operation, with enough medical personnel to run three operating rooms at one time with others doing all the prep work, the doctor operating and then others finishing up.  This is the way these specialists could complete 174 surgeries in four days.  Everyone pitches in during the first two days there to get the operating theatre cleaned and ready, while the rest are sorting glasses and arranging the eyeglass program.

Prior to arrival of the team, ophthalmologists in the Philippines who helped arrange the trip, worked with Lions Club members there to pre-screen those who they would recommend for cataract surgery.  The entire event was also publicized there so the people would know where to go to get the help needed.

Each day, when the team arrived by bus at the hospital and eyeglass building, there would be lines of hundreds of people filling the hospital waiting rooms and more hundreds lined up outside and inside the large building where the eye exams and glasses would be processed.  They would greet the team members with smiles and “good morning”.

The surgeons, Dr. Robert Rivera, Dr. Dharmendria Patel, both from the Valley, and Dr. J. J. Jarstad of Seattle, Wash., performed 171 cataract surgeries, corrected sight for two children with crossed eyes and one child with a serious growth on his eye.  One of the cataract surgeries was on a 12-year-old girl who was so happy after the doctor performed the surgery, she sang a song for him.

Although there were some new people on the mission, everyone was so well briefed that the work ran smoothly throughout.  After arriving on Saturday and unloading everything in the appropriate places at the hospital, the team went back in Sunday to prepare for the week’s work.

Monday through Thursday, the surgeries and the eye exams and presenting glasses ran from before 8 a.m. to sometimes late in the afternoon or early evening.  Friday was finish-up and packing day for the team, with post-op exams by the doctors.

Saturday, the team was taken by bus to a mountain resort a few hours away for a day and a half of rest and relaxation, after which, everyone left for Manila for another day of rest and then the trip to the U. S.

To add to the many, many stories and heart-warming events of these missions, the Phil-Am Lions have also done some shorter four-day mission of this type in Mexico. 

This is a club that is truly dedicated to the work of bringing sight to those in need around the world.

We recently lost one of our long time members, Past District Governor Orville Gauthier. Orville was a great Lion, and a very interesting self made man. Back in 1957 he was one of five Lions who came together to incorporate the Arizona Lions Eye Bank, to meet a growing need in Arizona, to procure, store and supply eye tissue so that corneas could be transplanted.

When people die, who are willing organ donors, their eyes are removed and processed. This eye tissue can then be transplanted to visually impaired patients, often times giving them the gift of sight. If the eye tissue does not meet strict standards, it is either sent to third world countries for transplantation or used for eye research.

Orville was a decorated war hero having been awarded the Purple Heart for being wounded in a battle, and a Bronze Star for valor. He received both of these during the time he was serving as a field medic in Europe during World War II. Orville also was involved in Boy Scouts of America, where he served for over 75 years, receiving their highest awards.

Orville not only helped to establish the Arizona Eye Bank, he served on the board, later becoming the Secretary/Treasurer. In 1974, Orville became a full time employee of the eye bank and served as their Executive Director. Later, the eye bank became one of our officially recognized Multiple District 21 (Arizona) projects.

In 1961 the Eye Bank Association of America was formed and Orville was invited to serve on their board. After serving on this board for over 10 years, he was elected President in 1974.

Orville Gauthier retired from the Arizona Eye Bank and was given an Honorary Life Membership on the board, for his over 25 years of service. The Arizona Eye Bank had its name changed officially to the Arizona Lions Eye Bank.

In 1983, Jeff Penta was hired as the Executive Director of the Arizona Lions Eye Bank. Jeff left in 1993 to take a similar position with the San Diego Lions Eye Bank. During his ten years of service, Jeff helped grow the Arizona Lions Eye Bank to one of the top three eye banks in the world as far as the amount of corneas that it processed.

The Arizona Lions Eye Bank went out of business sometime during the 1994/1995 Lions year. This broke Orville's heart. Orville indicated that it went out of business for several reasons:

First, the Arizona Lions Eye Bank moved from their location at the Prentice Eye Institute, where they had free rent, to a larger facility.

Secondly, the reason they needed a larger facility was because the Arizona Lions Eye Bank got away from it's central mission of harvesting eye tissue and expanded into transplanting other tissue, primarily bone marrow. This put the Arizona Lions Eye Bank in direct competition with powerful entities dealing with transplantations of other organs. The Arizona Lions Eye Bank lost its niche in the market.

Thirdly, the new location that the Arizona Lions Eye Bank moved to came with a high rent factor. It was in a nice medical complex. Unfortunately, one of the clinics in the complex was performing human abortions. There was often media attention due to the protests outside of the complex. This made it impossible to sub-lease the complex, or get out of the lease early.

The Arizona Lions Eye Bank now found itself in the position of losing major amounts of money every month, with no signs of relief in the future. Thus, the board of directors voted to close the doors and sell off the assets. In fact, they sold off some of the key pieces of equipment needed for eye banking before the closing of the eye bank was known to most of the Lions of Arizona.

Orville could understand the closing of the Arizona Lions Eye Bank, from a business standpoint, but he was disappointed that the Lions of our multiple district were not given a chance to come up with alternatives, before the key equipment was liquidated.

Donor Network of AZ purchased much of the equipment and took over most of the staff of the Arizona Lions Eye Bank. One of our other state projects, the Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation of Arizona, formed a partnership with Donor Network of AZ. When the Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation of Arizona has a case where eye tissue is needed to restore sight, they go to Donor Network, who provides this to them. In return our foundation keeps the records as dictated by law.

Although our eye bank is gone, we as Lions still give the gift of sight through corneal transplantation, because of the generosity and cooperation of Donors Network of AZ. Much of this is because of the professional way the Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation of Arizona conducts its business, and the positive relationships that it has with our medical professionals. Part of it is due to the legacy of the Arizona Lions Eye Bank, and key people like Past District Governor Orville Gauthier.

Orville was recently laid to rest. He had a full mass conducted by his nephew, who is an ordained Catholic Priest. Past District Governor Bob Lee gave a fitting eulogy. At graveside, Orville was given full military honors. A proper send off to a war hero, a youth advocate and one of the pioneers of the Arizona Lions Eye Bank.

The story need not end here. You can carry on the tradition by signing up to be an organ donor and encouraging others to do so. It is also critical that other family members are made aware of this decision, so at death, the proper decisions can be made. Please give the gift of sight!

We will be hosting the dinner on Friday night at the state convention. As part of our presentation we will be having a power point slide show of all the clubs and Lions who have spent time working at the camp. We don’t want to leave anyone out, so we are asking clubs to send us any photos and identifying information to the camp to be included. We promise to return them in the same condition once they are scanned into our program. Send Your photos to Pam at PO BOX 6910, Mesa, AZ 85216

Thank you!!!!

I had the most wonderful experience recently and had to share it. We are filming a marketing DVD for the camp and had families come out to be interviewed. It was a long day of positioning people, adjusting lighting and re-shooting for sound purposes, starting at 8 am and ending well past 7 that night, but none of that mattered. Several of our staff came to be interviewed or to work with the families they love so much. Our families shared how much they love being able to do this for the camp because financially they can’t do much, but this they can. They were overjoyed to feel like they could help.  How touching it was to see whole families come and share how camp impacts their lives, moms, dads, brothers, sisters and our beloved campers.

We never get the opportunity to sit and listen to what we do for others and it was both humbling and empowering. Humbling because of the little things that they mentioned about having a chance while their child was at camp to reconnect with each other, to have a chance to hold hands, sleep in and not get up in the middle of the night to time a seizure or change a diaper, and yet they would immediately feel guilty for saying that. The siblings talked about getting to have someone to listen to them. The strength and connection in these families is to be envied, how in tune they are with each other, how attentive. To hear the campers talk about their joy of being on their own and watch the pride in mom and dad’s eyes was amazing. One of our mom’s thanked us for giving her kids a place where people weren’t afraid of her children, a place where people love them and care for them like they do at home, she thanked us for stepping up to the challenge in a world that doesn’t always care. WOW. It was empowering because it made all of the staff involved just want to do more. We walked out of there wanting to drive back to camp now. I know I don’t need to tell you how wonderful camp is, because you know, that’s why you have supported it for the last 50 years. But I will tell you again how blessed we are to be a part of something so beautiful. It reminds you in this crazy world that it is still all about the love. Thank you again for all you do.

I’m sorry for those that were unable to attend this great meeting that was presented by your MD-21 MERL Team. There were 8 Zone Chairs from 21-A, 5 Zone Chairs and 3 Region Chairs from 21-B and 9 Zone Chairs and 4 Region Chairs from 21-C.  We also had all three DG, VDG, CST & CS. Extension chairs, Orientation Chairs, Women’s Membership Chair, VDG Candidates; PID’s, PDG’s totaling 51 Lions.

We had great round table discussions in the a.m. and MERL team reports after lunch.

The purpose of this meeting was to re-affirm the duties of the R & Z chairs for the next 6 months.  The main topic was how we can increase our membership and the development of new clubs.

By the time you receive this article in March we will still have March, April, May and June to increase our membership with new members, new clubs and retention.

“Lets all work for a positive net membership growth program by June 30, 2008”

All MD-21 Lions participating in the LCI Zone Training and MERL workshop

Camp Tatiyee is going to be fifty years old!  On June 22nd, 2008, a BIG celebration is planned to coincide with Open House this year, and everyone is invited!  Barbecue beef and the trimmings will be on the menu for lunch, there will be entertainment, a raffle and silent auction and tours of the camp via electric golf cars, or a self-guided walking tour if you prefer.

Lions, we need your help!  Did you help build the camp?  Have you ever worked at the camp in any capacity?  If you have old photos, anecdotes or special memories of Camp Tatiyee from the “early days” when the camp was built, or anything from the past fifty years, we’d love to get them.  Please make copies of those precious photos for us. This can be done inexpensively at any Kinko’s, Walgreens or Wal-Mart stores.  Write it out and e mail to: Pam Swanson at lionscampt@cox.net ; or to Pearl Nancarrow pnancarrow@cableone.net .  If you don’t have computer access, mail it to me at: 305 S. Devereaux St. Globe, AZ 85501, and I will see that the right person gets it.

We need donations of items for the raffle and for the silent auction.  Clubs and individuals may donate, and you can ask local businesses and the movers ’n shakers in your community if they would like the opportunity to come up with a gift or prize for this worthy cause. (It is tax deductible).

We will need people to work at the Open House in the areas of food prep, serving, cleanup, help with raffle and auction organization.  If you (or your whole club) want to take on some part of this as a project, please contact Rick Savage at risavage52@hotmail.com , or Barbara brssll@frontiernet.net .

Arizona Lions can take pride in the fifty years of service that Camp Tatiyee has dedicated to Arizona’s citizens with disabilities.  Let’s show our pride by attending this special anniversary, and working toward making it the biggest and best one ever!

In addition to the move in January to begin positioning PID Joe Preston for a campaign to become Lions Clubs International 2nd Vice President in about three years, it seems Arizona may have the opportunity to have another International Director candidate.

PID Joe Preston received a call from Lions Clubs International recently asking if MD 21  might have a “good candidate” for an International Director position, indicating that the Arizona Lions might have an opportunity to present another candidate for the two-year  position on the LCI Board of Directors.

This matter was also discussed at the recent meeting of the “Committee to Elect PID Joe Preston as 2nd V.P” with many Lions from all areas of the state attending.  The pros and cons of having an election for an International Director to be presented as a candidate at the 2009 International Convention was discussed at that time and it was generally felt that it would be possible to invite potential candidates to run and still have the campaign for PID Joe Preston move forward.  Timing for the campaigns would need to be worked together carefully, but it was felt it is possible, with each campaign being run by separate committees, coordinating with one another.