ARIZONA HOSTS SPECIAL CONFERENCE

I recently attended the 20th Annual North American Conference of Lions Foundations. It was hosted by the Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation of Arizona. . Donna Rowe-Ruggeri along with Lions Priscilla White, Jackie Acorn, PDG Bill Morrison, Santos Alvarez and myself, served as the Host Committee.
This conference was attended by members from all over the USA, all coming together to conduct their yearly business, network, exchange ideas, attend seminars and more. The theme was “How to Survive in a Down Economy.” In addition to this there were seminars on Capital Campaigns and Major Donors, Legal Compliance for Foundations, Burnout, Challenges Non Profits Face, and Writing Grants.
My favorite seminar was given by Dr. Tsui from the University of Arizona on Glaucoma. Many of us have heard of the tremendous research that they are doing, but they are also on the leading edge of providing new solutions to this major cause of blindness. This would be a great program to bring to one of our multiple district events. As Arizona Lions we should all be proud of the partnership we have with the University of Arizona.
The Legal Compliance seminar was fascinating. They discussed many challenges. One that caught my attention was that there have been many lawsuits being brought against service clubs or foundations that provide scholarships. Losers have been suing, charging discrimination. Apparently it is hard for clubs and/or foundations to prove that there was no illegal discrimination. They suggested that you give your scholarship criteria to the schools and let them make the selections. In short, you fund the scholarships and let the schools make the selection based on your criteria.
This conference was 2 _ days of non-stop action. It was fun, rewarding, inspirational and educational. Next year the conference moves to Charleston, South Carolina.
Congratulations to Donna Rowe-Ruggeri and her committee for doing Arizona proud!

ID Footsteps
Lion Dick Sawyer

February started the long haul of weekends to be spent making visits to various conventions. The next weekend that we have free will be Easter.
We first went to Louisiana 8-I and after a clear weekend up in Minnesota we hit snow. Yes, snow in Louisiana., it has been a weird winter. They were still plowing runways in Dallas when we dropped down to change planes. We had a chance to tour the Louisiana Lions Camp while there. Great facility and they do many things the same way that we do. The big difference is that they own their land.
When we went to Michigan MD11 for their Forum in the middle of February we again hit cold but fair weather. MD11 holds their forum on one day so our time was really packed. They do not combine a council meeting or cabinet meetings with their forum as we do, but I did have a chance to sit down with their council to discuss the state of the MD. They have two candidates from southern Michigan (MD11) and one candidate from northern Michigan (SD10) seeking endorsement for the position of International Director in Sydney. That could turn out to be a spirited race.

The North American Conference of Lions Foundations held its annual meeting in Phoenix this month. Lion Donna Rowe and the Arizona Lions Foundation had the honor of hosting the event. We should have had a representative from each of our state foundations since the meeting was so close. There was a lot to learn.
The last week of February found us in Grand Junction, Colorado, at the Orchard Mesa Lions Club 50th Anniversary. They had a great celebration as will two of our MD21 Lions Clubs. Both the Pinetop-Lakeside Lions Club and the Phoenix Valley of the Sun Lions Club turn 50 this year. Come on out and help them celebrate.
When you get to read this in April, we will most likely be sitting through committee meetings of the International Board in Hamburg Germany. Hopefully, we will be able to see some of the sites while there, but they do have our schedule packed.
Now, I am going to get up on my soapbox and use a little space to remind ALL clubs that they need to file a tax return each year. This has been the law since 2007. If you have not filed in 2007 and 2008 and now fail to file your 2009 tax return, you stand to lose your 501(c)4 tax-exempt status. The 3 year period is up this year. It ends on November 15, 2010. That is the 15th day of the 5th month after the close of your tax year which in most cases is June 30th. Please get this taken care of.

DOES YOUR CLUB NEED A NEW FUNDRAISER????

If the answer is “YES,” the Lions Foundation of Arizona has the answer for you. The LFA has teamed up with FunDAZ (www.fundaz.NET) to provide the Lions of Arizona with its OWN Branded SAVINGS CARD. Remember the “Entertainment Books”? Well, this is the 21st Century version of that savings program, with the best feature being that the CARD doesn't become active until it is sold and registered. Then you get a FULL YEAR of use.
FunDAZ is a national fundraising company with over 75 Managing Partners covering over 1000 cities. They help to serve as a funding catalyst in partnership with over 3500 merchants across the U.S for schools, charities and other programs. They look to provide resources beyond state funding, so that we can achieve our greatest potential.
LFA chose FunDAZ because they use the latest in technology and is the easiest program available today. They charge no up front fees and have no minimums making for a great cash flow opportunity for your club. Most of all, their program has VALUE. Parents, supporters and your members will love what they are getting for their money and can recoup their donation 100 times over.
Visit their website today to find out what charities like Susan G. Komen, Make-A-Wish, M.A.D.D, YMCA, 100's of Schools, Churches and Sports programs already know. FunDAZ is the ultimate fundraising company.
How does it work for your CLUB? The card is sold to the public for $25 AND YOUR CLUB gets to keep $10 of that. That's right, 40% of the cost comes back to your club. Sell 100 cards and make $1,000. Sell 1000 cards and make $10,000. If your club has 20 members, and each member sells 5 cards, there's your 100 cards and $1,000 in new funds for your club. History also tells us that somewhere between 65% and 75% of people AUTOMATICALLY renew their cards each year and your club will benefit again from those automatic renewals.
We will be introducing the card at the upcoming Mid-Year Conference, so stop by LFA's table to meet representatives from FunDAZ who will be working with LFA to get your club started. If you have more questions, contact Lion Alan Lundgren at LionsAZcard@aol.com.

Lions Camp Tatiyee Preparing for Campers!
By Pearl Nancarrow

It is that time of year, when Lions, other service clubs, organizations, families and individuals join together for the annual Camp Cleanup! What a good way to put in some volunteer hours.
The dates are a bit early this year- none of them fall on the Mother's Day weekend. Mark your calendars for April 16 -18, April 23 -25- and April 30-May 1.
You may attend one or all weekends. You are welcome, even if you can only spend one day out of the weekend. Arrive Friday afternoon or evening, work hard all day Saturday, finish up on Sunday morning or by noon Sunday.
There is plenty to do, from grounds keeping (raking, mowing, moving rocks) to spring cleaning the cabins, running floor washers, waxers and polishers, carpentry, welding and plumbing for those qualified to do so, general repair work and painting.
It is very rewarding work, and a good time to network and brainstorm with people from all over the state.
The most fun is that you can stay right at the camp, if you choose. Just bring a sleeping bag, pillow and your own towels and soap. Otherwise, there are area motels that will give you a discount if you tell them you are working at Camp Tatiyee.
The food is good and they really feed you well! Call the Camp caretakers, Linda or Dick Bragg at (928) 537-2421, or e mail them at rmdickbragg@frontier.net. Telling them which weekend or weekends you would like to come, and how many in your party. If you have a special skill (heating-cooling, plumbing, roofing etc.), be sure to mention it! Dick and Linda need to know so that cabins can be warmed and meals planned for.
If you are keeping track of volunteer hours, I am sure you can request a copy of the sign-in sheet for your club or organization, if you need it. Many clubs from Boy Scouts to Garden clubs volunteer time every Spring to help get our camp ready for campers.

What is one of the best kept secrets in Lions?

The Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial. Even here in Arizona many Lions are not aware of the Memorial or the reason it exists. The Memorial, located in Ft Thomas AZ, exists as a tribute to and a lasting reminder of our founder, Melvin Jones. Yes, Melvin Jones, a Chicago businessman, founded Lions Clubs International in Chicago, and our international headquarters is located in the Chicago suburb of Oakbrook, but Melvin Jones was born right here in Arizona on January 17, 1879. His roots are here.
Not only do Lions worldwide not realize that the only connection between the Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial and the Melvin Jones Fellowship program is the name “Melvin Jones”, they assume that the donations made to fund Melvin Jones Fellowships go to the Memorial. Nothing could be further from the truth. The only funding for the Memorial comes from club donations, memorial brick sales, and pin sales. Those donations and sales are the only source of income to maintain and promote the Memorial, worldwide.
Melvin Jones, himself, a humble man who never even served as International President, had the vision to preserve his birthplace as a focal point for Lions to focus on the true meaning of “We Serve”. He participated in the plans to erect a spire in Ft Thomas, AZ to inspire Lions to rethink their reason for becoming Lions and their goal to help the people of the world. The museum, located next to the spire, is dedicated to preserving the history of the man and the institution.
All of this requires funding to maintain the monument, the museum and the grounds. In addition, funds are needed to continue the education of Lions regarding the roots of the organization and its meaning to millions of people around the world whose lives are improved through our sight and hearing programs, our dedication to diabetes research and our ability to help people and nations in need through disaster relief. The maintenance of the facility, mainly provided by the Safford Lions Club and other dedicated Lions, costs real money. Not outrageous funds, but enough to repair the roof on the museum, pay the electric and water bills, and preserve the exhibits donated from Lions throughout the United States and the world.
Our needs are simple, our budget sparse. As we approach the end of the current Lions Year, it is time for your Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial Board of Directors to ask each and every club in the multiple district to remember the Memorial when deciding where to direct their donations. Each club has it's own reasons and commitments behind the donations they make to charities, organizations, and state projects. Please try to remember the needs of the Memorial - and the reasons that it exists - when making those donation decisions. The Memorial is yours - please help us keep it that way.
Individual Lions can help forge the future of the Memorial by becoming members of 1000 Vanguards, a group of Lions who have a vision of the future and a goal of making the Memorial known worldwide by Lions and others.
Invite a Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial Board Member or Advisor to one of your meetings. We would be happy to share the history, the goals and the promise for the future with your club. And - remember us when making your state project donations.
Submitted by Lion Sally Hanson, Secretary/Treasurer, MJLIM

LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION
ls-hf.org
Submitted by; Donna Rowe/Executive Director

The 20th Annual NORTH AMERICAN CONFERENCE OF LIONS FOUNDATIONS (NACLF) was a huge success for the second time in Arizona. We hosted our first one in 1997 and the second one on February 26 and 27, 2010. The theme of this year's conference was “How To Survive In A Down Economy.” We had some of the best professionals come together to present and discuss possible solutions. Next year's conference will be held in South Carolina.
LS&HF RAFFLE-The date for the drawing on these items will be Saturday evening, May 22, 2010. Tickets may be purchased from President Ed Middlesworth (480) 984-5081, the Foundation (602) 954-1723, or any director. Tickets are six for $5.00. We have several raffle prizes; the Handicapped Kachina (over two foot high) pictured below and appraised at $800.00, a George Forman Grill, a Craftsman 204 piece mechanics tool set, a ring, a watch, large Western Companions beautifully framed watercolor picture.
PLEASE DON'T WAIT UNTIL THE END OF THE YEAR -- Think about the AZ TAX CREDIT FOR THE WORKING POOR tax credit for donations to LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION. You may donate $200.00 for a single person or $400.00 for a family AGAIN IN 2010. After your Federal deductions - you should get $$$$$ back. PLUS you help someone see again. Just make your check payable to LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION, dated before December 31, 2010, and mail to us at 3427 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85018.
***WALK-4-SIGHT AZ event was held on March 27, 2010, more on this in the next issue. “We Walk In The Dark So They Won't Have To.” Please call Donna (602) 954-1723 for more information.

I will be addressing several subjects in this article that I think we need to be as leaders.

Have you ever thought that the people in your community would like to join your club because your Lions Club has great Leadership? Does your club show your community you're Leadership? I do not mean Leadership by having a pancake breakfast, white cane days, carnivals etc., all of these projects are necessary to help those in our community. I mean how many of you sit on other community committee's, your Church, neighborhood watch, neighborhood zoning, school board, PTA, H.O.A., Chamber of Commerce and so on? If you are involved…I applaud you.

By being focused as a Lion Leader and a great citizen of your community the mixture of the two are compatible with each other. As a Lion you can show the community that you are a leader and as a Community Leader you can serve both entities with pride.

One of the best ways to be a good leader is to follow protocol and have your members follow protocol. Too many times I hear…I do not like that person and will not work for them, that is not the sign of a good leader, “Lets honor and respect the office” who ever is holding the office, when the District Governor or any invited guest attends your meeting unless they request different, they should be the last one to speak and not covered up with a lot of club business after they talk.
Protocol is: GOOD MANNERS, BEING COURTEOUS, TREATING SOMEONE SPECIAL AS YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE TREATED, SALUTING “THE UNIFORM”, REMOVING HATS WHEN UNDER ROOF, HONORING THE POSITION, ADDING SOME “CLASS & STYLE” TO A SPECIAL OCCASION and above all “COMMON SENSE”.

When we go to Zone Meetings, District Meetings, Workshops remember, it is very discourteous to walk out after we eat and not stay for the full program. Many of us leave after the luncheon and do not stay for the complete workshop. It needs to be considered that whoever is in charge of the workshop put a lot of energy arranging all the events and getting the presenters and speakers. The presenters and speakers also spend a lot of time putting their program together for you and the least you can do is stay and listen to them. I will guarantee you will learn something if you listen to the presenters and speakers even if you are not fully interested in the programs. Try to be quiet and attentive during the presentations, too many times we have conversations around the room that makes it very disturbing for the presenter. Today is the world of electronics but above all “TURN OFF YOUR CELL PHONE”, if you do not know how to put the phone on vibrate.

All clubs are now in the progress of nominating their club officers for next year, evaluate the individuals, don't try to talk them into the office, make sure they understand the duties of the office and will be able to fulfill the duties of the office.

Looking back on a lot of our programs, it is my opinion we make a colossal mistake, we introduce the program and all agree to the program, but we never put a team together to implement the program and the program either fails or sits on the file cabinet or now it just sits in the computer like our MD Long Range Program that we voted on in 1999. If this program had been implemented by a team or had an implantation team picked and they had their goals before it was introduced our membership may not be in the trouble we are now.

I do not care if it is in your club, district or MD, if the program is worth introducing it is worth having a plan to implement it. Please lets stop introducing new plans and leaving the existing plans in the past. If anything, lets continue with the old plan with an amendment to look into the new plan.

One great example, how many membership plans have we seen in the last years and the original plan was to “JUST ASK SOMEONE” the implementation team for this is every new member, when they are inducted into Lions they are asked if they will bring in a new member just like they were asked by their sponsor…I rest my case.

No matter what you think of your leader we need to pat them on the back more and thank them for their hard work, we could recruit and have more individuals be leaders in Lions and our community if we did this.

The following is an example of Leadership:

L isten: To what your subordinates are saying.
E mpathy: Have a genuine understanding of how people feel.
A vailability: Always be available to take care of needs and issues.
D ecisiveness: Know what you're talking about and make timely decisions.
E nthusiastic: Set the example and be excited about your clubs activities.
R esourceful: Continue to seek self improvement through reading and seminars.
S incerity: You must be able to develop a genuine trust in others and make others
feel important.
P erseverance: Persistence in spite of obstacles or opposition.

We are all leaders in our own way, if we were not we would not be able to function in our daily activities.

Let's take the L E A D E R S H I P challenge!

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE MD21 CONSTITUTION, MD21 BYLAWS
AND
THE MELVIN JONES LIONS INTERNATIONAL MEMORIAL CONSTITUTION
TO BE VOTED ON BY THE DELEGATES AT THE
MD21 ANNUAL CONVENTION ON MAY 14-16, 2010
Prepared by the MD21 Constitution and Bylaws Committee

The MD21 Constitution and Bylaws Committee has received and reviewed the below listed two (2) proposed amendments to MD21 Constitution, one (1) amendment to the MD21 Bylaws, and one (1) amendment to the Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial Constitution that will be presented for adoption to the Delegates at the MD21 Annual Convention on May 14-16, 2010 in Mesa, Arizona.

FIRST PROPOSED MD21 CONSTITUTION AMENDMENT

ARTICLE V, Council of Governors, Section 4, paragraph b., add the following sentence:

The Governors Elect may, at their discretion, appoint a qualified Lion to assist the Council Secretary and/or the Council Treasurer in the performance of their duties.

Purpose: Provide increased efficiency in performing the administrative duties of the
Council

SECOND PROPOSED MD21 CONSTITUTION AMENDMENT

ARTICLE X, Multiple District Projects, Section 7, Change the last sentence to read:

The total number of voting advisory Board Members appointed by that Project from outside MD21 shall be less than the Project's total number of elected Board Members from within MD21.

Purpose: To increase recognition and financial support for the Project from throughout
North America and the World.

FIRST PROPOSED MD21 BYLAWS AMENDMENT

Add a new Article as follows:

ARTICLE VII - MD21 PRIVACY POLICY

A MD21 Privacy Policy, based upon the most recent language prepared by Lions Clubs International and recommended for Multiple Districts and Sub-Districts, will be prepared, implemented, and maintained for the purpose of safeguarding the personal information of the Lions in MD21. A copy of the MD21 Privacy Policy will be placed in the MD21 Procedures Manual.

Purpose: MD21 Compliance with Lions Clubs International Policy Recommendation

FIRST PROPOSED MELVIN JONES LIONS INTERNATIONAL MEMORIAL CONSTITUTION AMENDMENT

ARTICLE 4, COMMITTEE OF DIRECTORS, Paragraph 1,

Delete the last sentence and replace it with the following two (2) sentences:

“So long as the Memorial has permission from Lions Clubs International to raise funds from outside the boundaries of Multiple District 21, the Memorial may appoint voting advisory Committee members from outside MD21 to serve in a non-officer capacity for three year terms. The total number of voting advisory Committee members appointed by the Memorial shall be less that the Memorial's total number of elected Committee of Directors from within MD21.”

Purpose: To increase recognition and financial support for the Melvin Jones Lions
International Memorial throughout North America and the world.

It was great to see many of you at the rededication at the Melvin Jones Memorial in January. As usual, your Melvin Jones Memorial Board did a great job. Fay and I had the opportunity to host PID Dana and PIP Bill Biggs. They are great people and take a hearty interest in the Memorial. It was PIP Dana who worked with the LCI Public Relations Department to get the annual $2000 stipend passed through the LCI Board. of Directors.
Our visit to Oregon D36-R brought us face-to-face with some longtime friends to Arizona Lions. PID Ed and Elaine Gear were our hosts. Ed and Elaine have visited our state several times as guests of one convention or another. We also saw PCC Sunny Pulley who was one of the faculty for the first Arizona Faculty Development Institute. Sunny is currently running for a slot on the 2010 International Director ballot. The Oregon Lions put on a great convention in a hotel overlooking the ocean in Newport. We weren't able to get in any beach time due to the convention schedule, not to mention the rainy weather.
Congratulations to District 21B and their new Fountain of the Sun Lions Club. Can you believe, the club will be starting out with 47 members. They plan to be over 50 by the end of this Lionistic year. How many members has your club brought in?
When we went to Minnesota D5M-4 at the end of January it was cold but we survived with the help of the absence of any blizzards or foul weather. The convention was held in Alexandria at a hotel with a very large, enclosed open area that included a pool and recreational facilities. It seems that during the winter many families will book a weekend in a hotel such as this to break up the tedium of cabin fever. This convention had a 3-piece Irish band that played well into the evening. A great time was had by all, including wagering on the minnow races. (Ask me about it sometime.)
Looking ahead to the International Convention in Sydney, Australia, June 28-July 2, 2010. You will need to make sure that your passport is up-to-date and does not expire anywhere close to your return date. Time is running out to get this done.. You will also need a VISA to enter Australia, this can be done on-line.
Your club will NOT receive an automatic mailing of the LCI Delegate/Alternate Certification Forms this year. You will be able to find them printed in the Lion Magazine, be able get them off the LCI website or your secretary will have to call LCI to get them mailed out.
We will be out of state during the District 21A and 21B conventions this year, but will be in attendance at the 21C convention. See you there.

If the answer is “YES,” the Lions Foundation of Arizona has the answer for you. The LFA has teamed up with FunDAZ (www.fundaz.NET) to provide the Lions of Arizona with its OWN Branded SAVINGS CARD. Remember the “Entertainment Books”? Well, this is the 21st Century version of that savings program, with the best feature being that the CARD doesn't become active until it is sold and registered. Then you get a FULL YEAR of use.
FunDAZ is a national fundraising company with over 75 Managing Partners covering over 1000 cities. They help to serve as a funding catalyst in partnership with over 3500 merchants across the U.S for schools, charities and other programs. They look to provide resources beyond state funding, so that we can achieve our greatest potential.
LFA chose FunDAZ because they use the latest in technology and is the easiest program available today. They charge no up front fees and have no minimums making for a great cash flow opportunity for your club. Most of all, their program has VALUE. Parents, supporters and your members will love what they are getting for their money and can recoup their donation 100 times over.
Visit their website today to find out what charities like Susan G. Komen, Make-A-Wish, M.A.D.D, YMCA, 100's of Schools, Churches and Sports programs already know. FunDAZ is the ultimate fundraising company.
How does it work for your CLUB? The card is sold to the public for $25 AND YOUR CLUB gets to keep $10 of that. That's right, 40% of the cost comes back to your club. Sell 100 cards and make $1,000. Sell 1000 cards and make $10,000. If your club has 20 members, and each member sells 5 cards, there's your 100 cards and $1,000 in new funds for your club. History also tells us that somewhere between 65% and 75% of people AUTOMATICALLY renew their cards each year and your club will benefit again from those automatic renewals.
We will be introducing the card at the upcoming Mid-Year Conference, so stop by LFA's table to meet representatives from FunDAZ who will be working with LFA to get your club started. If you have more questions, contact Lion Alan Lundgren at LionsAZcard@aol.com.

Page 75, Good year Lions meeting time is 6:00 p.m. The 2nd and 4th Tuesday.
Page 199, Phoenix Valley of the Sun Lions Club meets at the Golden Phoenix Restaurant, 6048 N. 16th St., Phoenix.

MD Directory Changes

Page 11 & 63 Financial Review 21A, Jack Schabow, 4440 W. Bluefleld Ave, Glendale, Az 85308, H  602 439-2445, W  602 909-7841

Page 58, Zone 1, Gary White, Liongaryw@q.com

Page 67, Liberty Day, Andy Lehner, 480 371-5014

Page 73, Buckeye Lions, Teresa Mayo, tcgm1964@yahoo.com

Page 75, Glendale Sunrise Lions Club, change meeting time, 1^st and 3^rd Wednesday of each month from September 1 to April 30 from 11:55 a.m. to 12:55 p.m.

Page 77, Needles Lions Club, Secretary, David Sauterlund, 215 Cibola Street, Needles, Ca 92363, 760 326-4286, Davidsauterlund@yahoo.com

Page 78, Phoenix Downtown Lions Club, (new meeting location), University Club, 39 East Monte Vista, Phoenix

Page 79, President Richard Von Siegel’s email address should be: BaronRichardVons1@ymail.com

1^st VDG Arthur C. Downs, Jr. fax number is 602-237-8076.

Peoria Westbrook Village Lions Club, change mailing address to: c/o Robert C. Roth, Secretary/Treasurer, 19513 N. 89^th Drive, Peoria, AZ  85382-8556.

DO WE or DON’T WE ?

Lion Dick Sawyer, ID

My fellow Lions, that is the question, “do we or don’t we want to have a Lions Camp Tatiyee or a Lions Foundation of Arizona in five years.”  Both entities are struggling financially.

As we entered negotiations with the US Forest Service to make a trade for the land upon which Camp Tatiyee sits, the Lions Foundation of Arizona took on the awesome task of financing the purchase of the land that we needed to make the trade.  This process has nearly bankrupt LFA as it continuously had to place its assets on the line to back the loans needed to make the purchases.

This last January a special drive was made to raise money to make our last payment to the note holders of our land.  Not enough was raised and debt was traded.  A new promissory note to Lions and Lions clubs was signed for an additional $300,000.00, bringing our promissory notes to a figure in excess of $1,000,000.00.

In rough round numbers this process is occurring approximately $9,000.00 a month for interest on these notes.  Some note holders require annual payment.

Last year only 59 clubs (44%) of the 133 clubs in the multiple district donated to LFA and only 34 clubs (25%) donated to the Tatiyee Land Campaign.  This equated to $33,430.00 donated to LFA and $66,494.00 to TLC.  Barely enough to make the interest payments and not enough to make the annual re-payments needed or to keep LFA in operation.

This year so far, 13 clubs have donated $5,700.00 to LFA and 4 clubs have donated $3,850 to TLC.  We have a long way to go.  Did you look at the listing of Tatiyee Land Campaign expenses on page 8 of the October issue of the Canyon State Lions?  Not a healthy financial picture.

It is up to you and your clubs.  Do we want these two great projects in our multiple district future or not.  They cannot accomplish the tasks that you have placed on their backs without your help.  Let’s not see these projects wither and die due to financial restraints.  PLEASE HELP.

Family Members
Submitted by Joseph Jones

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.  Outside of the head-of-household, the associated members get half off of their International Dues.

Eye screening Head Start children at various chapter houses throughout the massive Navajo Nation may not sound like such a big job, but the Arizona Lions Vision Center has been working on this “job” for some time.

Since the numbers of children run somewhere near 5,000, and the miles between the various chapter houses and meeting spots range into the thousands, from north central Arizona to near Farmington, N.M., it is a BIG job.  During September and the first of October, volunteers have been again setting up and tearing down their improvised exam “rooms” and working the two-, three- and four-year-olds through lines using visual pictures to test their eyes.

As the volunteers are traveling from one spot to another, so is the New Mexico Eye Screening unit, which has been working with the Arizona group to provide the unit/office for more advanced screening on the children who do not pass the initial visual exam.

Working the three weeks in October have been:

Week 1:  Window Rock, Indian Wells, Tuba City and Kayenta:  Lions DG Phil Phillips and wife, Sandy; Hoppy Hopsicker, Lion Sister Michael Wilson, Su-Lin Trepanitis, Steve Ellis, Lois McClusky, Christy Lucerno, Jeannette Russell and Josie Cons from the Vision Center; Dr. Cathy Hollenbach and New Mexico drivers Jeff Kriz and Lenny Bean.

Week 2:  Many Farms, Whipporwill Springs and Shiprock: Lions Steve Ellis, Su-Lin Trepanitis, Donna Anderson, Lion Sister Michael Wilson, CC John Hart and Dory,  Jeannette Russell and Lois McClusky.  Dr. Brady O. Hopper worked that week, along with New Mexico drivers Lucky Sells and Leonard Bean.

Week 3:  Becenti Chapter, Red Rock Chapter, White Ruins and  Shiprock:  Lions CC John Hart, Lion Sister Michael Wilson, Steve Ellis, Su-Lin Trepanitis, George Hill, with Dr. Brady O. Hopper and New Mexico driver Jeff Kriz.

The last week in October will be used to return to all areas to dispense the glasses by CC John Hart, Josie Cons and Vision Center Director Jeannette Russell.

Lion Jeannette expressed her many thanks to all the Lions who volunteered to help with this big project, and to the doctors and the New Mexico Lions for the use of their unit and drivers.

ID Footsteps
Lion Dick Sawyer

Well, we survived our first Board meeting in New Orleans.  It was six long days packed with committee meetings and general meetings.  I have been assigned to the Leadership Committee and as a member of that committee we met to discuss the various leadership opportunities provided by Lions Clubs International.  This committee is responsible for the District Governors-Elect Seminar, Senior Leadership Institute, Faculty Development Institute, Regional Leadership Institutes, and the Lions on-line Leadership Resource Center.

Recent additions to the Leadership Resource Center include a training package for vice district governors and independent study presentations and resources for club presidents, club secretaries and club treasurers.

Our Leadership Committee also met in joint session with the Membership Committee and the District and Club Services Committee.  Items for discussion were a new District and Club Health Assessment Report which provides an overview of each district’s and each club’s health using membership data, reporting frequency, and measures related to financial activity.  Challenges of providing leadership materials and seminars in the growing membership areas of Eastern Europe and China were also discussed.

Once all of the committee meetings were finalized we met in general board session to listen to each of the committees report their findings and the resolutions that they had prepared with respect to their committee.  We had the opportunity to question and discuss each of the items as they arose.  We then went back to individually study what had been presented and to get ready for the formal decision making board meeting the next day.  This was a very, very long day.

We had the opportunity to visit with the new Anthem Lions Club on their charter night along with many other Lions from throughout district 21A and the multiple district.  Congratulations Lion President Kerry Freeman on getting your new club off to such a rousing start.

More visits coming up to Saskatchewan, Utah and New York.

Lion Quarterly Video Magazine

I am proud to announce that Lions Quarterly Video Magazine has just received a Telly Award for outstanding online video production.  The Telly Awards are highly competitive.  This is the association's 4th Telly Award, and our 2nd in the past three years.  We are extremely proud of this accomplishment.

I am also happy to announce that the Lions Clubs International YouTube channel is now in the top 100 of the most watched non-profit YouTube channels (out of nearly 1,000).  This is a significant achievement considering our channel has only been in existence for 7 months.  Each month, the number of viewers has continued to increase.

Sincerely,

Dane LaJoye

Division Manager, Public Relations and Communications

Lions Clubs International

Lions Camp Tatiyee Getting Ready for Christmas VillageBy Pearl Nancarrow

There was no Christmas Village last winter.  The Grinch didn’t steal it, and no one was naughty.  Camp Tatiyee is always nice!  There was no Christmas Village last winter because the buildings were being winterized. 

Christmas came early for Camp Tatiyee in the form of a grant!  All the work was done in total by this grant.  Because there was a time limit as to when it had to be used, the work had to be completed during the winter.  Every cabin, the dining hall, and the pool building got insulation in the walls, ceilings and floors.  Heating systems were upgraded; windows and bathrooms were updated, renovated and coolers were installed. 

Put the weekends of December 4 and 5, and 11 and 12 on your calendar. Lions Camp Tatiyee, up in the cool pines of Lakeside will have a Christmas Village again!  Decorated buildings provide a whole festival of light, making the camp look like a fairyland.  Santa’s Village will be run by some of our wonderful camp counselors.  They will have a booth for pictures with Santa, gifts that kids can buy for their families (and help in wrapping them), and much more!  There will be carolers, hot cocoa, hand made arts and crafts, many gift items and home made goodies to purchase.  Plan to do some of your last minute shopping at the Christmas Village. There will be many unique items to choose from. All proceeds will go to the Camp, so it’s like shopping for gifts to give others while giving to the camp at the same time.  It’s a win-win concept!

The decorating party was held Saturday, October 17th.  A big Thank You to all the Lions who helped, to other individuals and families, and to the Young Marines who showed up in force, U RAH!  Why decorate in October?  This is “high country”, and it is a whole lot easier to handle those strings of light in October than in December when the wires are stiff and cold. 

If you missed the decorating party this year, plan to come NEXT year.  Keep it in mind; ask Barb Russell (e mail and phone below) to put you on her list to contact.  If you, your business, club or organization are looking for an opportunity to volunteer, this is a terrific chance to network, to meet new people, to volunteer one day’s time to a worthy cause and it is fun.  Arrangements can be made to stay at the camp for a nominal donation.  There are lots of good motels in the area too, if you’d rather.  

Another big Thank You and kudos to the following companies who have sponsored lighting a building at a cost of $1,000:  Cellular 1; Navapachee Electric Employees; Hon-Dah Resort and Casino; and the Show Low Lions Club are in.  There is still room for more.  If your business or club wants to sponsor a building at camp, please contact Barbara Russell at brssll@frontiernet.net, or (623) 606-3389 (m), or (928) 537-3742 (h).  Sponsoring and lighting up a building is a great way to get your company or club name out there where it will be noticed.

Lions Camp Tatiyee was founded in 1958 to serve physically and mentally handicapped boys, girls, and adults from the age of 7 and up in the State of Arizona.  Campers are not charged for attending camp.  Lions work hard to raise money to provide a quality camping experience for the campers.  Sometimes this is the first time a camper has been away from home for a week, or even overnight.  Many times it is the first time they have ever been in a swimming pool, or had a chance to sit around a campfire at night.  Friendships are formed with others like themselves. Confidence is gained, independence is discovered and self-esteem rises. 

Lions Camp Tatiyee is accredited by the American Camp Association, and must meet specific standards to be accredited.  The camp has grown in its half century. Over the years more cabins, more counselors, a building with a heated pool, and a fish pond have been added.  Also a large arts and theater building complete with a stage doubles as a gymnasium during inclement weather.   Counselors are trained and certified.  Most of them are college students who are majoring in medicine, nursing, psychology, pharmacy, education and related areas.  Many colleges offer credits for their summer’s hands-on training at Camp Tatiyee, and if you ask them, they love their jobs.  Many of them come back year after year until they graduate.  Parents and caretakers can be assured that every camper gets individual attention, a balanced diet, exercise, new experiences, a taste of independence, and fun.

If someone you know might qualify for Lions Camp phone 480-380-4254, write P.O. Box 6910 Mesa, Arizona 85216, or e mail arizonalionscamp@cox.net for particulars on the procedure to register a camper. If you’d like an opportunity to donate, there are several ways: ask for the tax credit form, write a check, buy a brick, sponsor a camper, or remember Camp Tatiyee in your will.  Contact us by phone, mail or e mail and ask how YOU can be a part of this wonderful experience.

Lions Camp Tatiyee
Submitted by Pam Swanson, Executive Director

We had an amazing summer and while many memories stick out in my mind, it is this picture of Aaron and Devin that sparks my favorite Camp Tatiyee moment for this year. On the last day of our teen’s week, Aaron (on the left) asked to do prayer before lunch. He got up and told us of a life that he lived off season that consisted of bullies, and loneliness, things that were so hard for us to imagine for him. At camp, Aaron is the popular guy that everyone knows because he is kind and good to everyone and he is always positive, always cracking jokes. He proceeded in his testimony to end with how it is only at camp that he feels he has friends, that he feels loved by people who “don’t have to love him.” He ended it with “thank you all for being my friends, for loving me, for me and for letting me know there are better people in the world then the bullies I have to go back to. I love you guys!”

Needless to say, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Lunch was forgotten and hugs were the new serving, as their parents came upon this scene it was hard for them to have to draw their camper’s away. They too left with tears in their eyes and thanks on their lips. It is amazing what a person can be if they are allowed the freedom to define themselves without the judgment of people, who never really wait to get to know them. Thank you Lions of Arizona, for giving these kids a respite that helps them to make it through their lives, one summer at a time.

LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION
Submitted by; Donna Rowe/Executive Director

The board and staff of LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION again wish to thank you for donations for the permanent Memorial of PCC DAVE LAMBERT, your cash donations and your hard work in eyeglass collections.  The NEEDLES LIONS CLUB brought in 3,700 pair of eyeglasses after the cutoff date for last year. They work hard in District 21 to help those in need.

Recently, eyeglasses were sent to the flood victims in Philippines, India, Micronesia, Peru and distributed to the homeless, battered and abused women in Phoenix and other low-income people throughout Arizona.

Surgery to repair a detached retina was performed on the 18 year-old young man, from Yuma. We would like to thank the Peoria Pioneer Lions Club and the Yuma Quartermasters Lions for organizing fundraisers to help cover his eye surgery. Another 16 year-old was shot in the eye. Several other retinal detachments had surgery this month as well.  Last month was the month for prosthetic eyes.  We had one woman who needed two prosthetic eyes. Of course, most of the eye surgeries are for cataract removal. We are close to reaching our budgeted amount for eye surgeries and need more funds to extend these services to the many Arizona residents who qualify. Thank you for sharing in the care of those with no other hope. We have many reasons to be ‘Thankful” during this Holiday season – not only for our sight but that we can help others enjoy the wonderful gift of vision.

** PLEASE DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE END OF THE YEAR --  It’s time to think about the AZ TAX CREDIT FOR THE WORKING POOR tax credit for donations to LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION. You may donate $200.00 for a single person or $400.00 for a family. After your Federal deductions – you should get $$$$$ back. PLUS you help someone see again. Just make your check payable to LIONS SIGHT & HEARING FOUNDATION, dated before December 31, 2009, and mail to us at 3427 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85018.

***WALK-4-SIGHT AZ event March 27, 2010, let the community know who we LIONS are and what we stand for – “We Walk In The Dark So They Won’t Have To.”  Please call Donna (602) 954-1723 for more information.

MD 21 and the
BEST KEPT SECRET

All of us in Lions have heard the phrase “ What Lions do is the best kept secret around.”

You know this, for when you are working a service project, more often than not, a person will ask you, ”What do Lions do?”  The next best kept secret I can think of is, The Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial at Ft. Thomas AZ.

A project of MD 21, where in 1965 the Safford Lions Club along with other Arizona Lions erected the Melvin Jones Memorial Spire which was then dedicated by LCI Vice President , Lion Edward Linsey. It is told in his later years Melvin Jones often visited this area and had input into building of the memorial in his honor. He passed away in 1961.

Internationally recognized at the 1999 San Diego International Convention by the LCI  Board with the following resolution: “Be it resolved, that the Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial be authorized to solicit funds outside the boundaries of their Multiple District, subject to review and approval of the solicitation by the general council.”  That action recognized MJLIM as an International shrine and gives Lions of the world the opportunity to participate in the planning and building programs. The MJLIM Board has a booth at LCI Conventions and at USA/Canada Forums, where photos, brochures, pins, etc are displayed for visitors information.

You and your new member can be part of history by having them inducted into the largest service organization of the world by PID Lion Dana Biggs on January 9, 2010 at the MJLIM in Ft. Thomas, AZ. This is “Rededication Day” for Lions. The program normally starts at the Memorial site at 11AM to 12Noon and continues a short distance away at the Eastern Arizona College for those who have a $20 prepaid lunch reservations. ( These can be purchased from any MJLIM Board Member.) Come early and tour the Melvin Jones Museum building and see what is planned for the future at the Memorial Site.

Submitted by MJLIM Board Member, PDG Lion Forrest Cheuvront

MELVIN JONES MEMORIAL BOOTH AT MEMPHIS

At the recent USA/Canada Forum held in Memphis, Tennessee, PDG Ernie Soto, Chairman of the MJM Display booth was assisted by IPDG Thelma “Tootsie” Brown, 1 7-I, Kansas, and by three of his former students from Leesburg High School in Florida. From the left is Kenny Devail (class ‘75), who is currently a Captain flying for Fed-Ex out of Memphis and Lion David and Bonnie Bailey (class ‘72). Lion David is the District Treasurer for 35-0. Kenny and Bonnie expressed their desire to become Lions. Lion Ernie was happy to see his “kids” again especially in this Lionistic setting.

THANK YOU LIONS OF ARIZONA
From Lioness Carla Lambert

I want to thank all of the Arizona Lions/Lioness’ and their spouses for the many cards and well wishes that I and my family received from you following the death of PCC Dave, and to again thank all that attended the memorial service and thank you to those who took part in the memorial.  Thank you for all the wonderful donations to his favorite State Project, Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation, so many eyes and ears will be helped by you..