District Governor News January, 2024 By Tom Elsey
Introduction I am writing this Governor Newsletter article on New Year’s Eve prior to having the pleasure of watching two of our grandkids for the night so their mom and dad can ring in the new year with their friends. Barb and I want to wish everyone a Happy and Prosperous New Year. I am looking forward to seeing the progress our clubs are making serving their communities and causes. Thanks to all clubs, the leaders of our great cabinet for a great first half to our lion year. I certainly appreciate all the hard work everyone does to help those less fortunate than ourselves. By the time you read this newsletter, the registration form should be out on the district website for you to fill out and return to the district to reserve your spot at the 55 th Annual District 1-A Convention. Let’s all look forward to “Celebrating the Service” we provide our communities and causes.
December Governor Travel On December 1st and 2nd, we traveled to Springfield , IL for the MD-1 Holiday Party and the MD-1 Cabinet meeting on Saturday. It is always nice to get together with our Council Governors and their spouses and others from the state. At the Council meeting, one of the most exciting outcomes was approving and beginning the process of updating the MD-1 Constitution & By-Laws which culminates at the MD-1 State Convention. A vote will take place at the State Convention allowing all club delegates to help approve the update to the MD-1 Constitution and By-Laws. December 6th, we had the pleasure of attending Franklin Park Manila’s Governors Visit. The club also teamed up with the local American Legion Post to honor a first Responder from the Police and Fire Department in Franklin Park. It was the first time I was able to attend such an event and I think all lions’ clubs should consider this to honor those who serve. On the 10th, we held the District Christmas Party at The Great Escape. We ended up moving the party to the enclosed Patio area to accommodate all the festive lions in attendance. The place was filled to the brim with holiday cheer! Thanks to Maryanne O’Reilly for all her hard work preparing for the party (including the centerpieces) and to all those that brought the art and craft supplies for the residents of Park Lawn School and Activity Center. Page 1 Governor Newsletter