The Wisconsin Lion March/April 2023 by Jennifer Creative

WHERE THERE’S A NEED, THERE’S A LION | MARCH/APRIL 2023 | wisconsinlions.org 1ST PLACE

Winners Announced Each year, Lions Clubs International runs a peace poster contest for middle school children. The winning entry for each district receives $50, second place $25 and third $15. The winner goes on to the state level and the winner of the state is entered Internationally. Local Lions Clubs sponsor a contest in their school. The winners are entered in the district contest which is held at the District Convention in the beginning of November, so local contests must be concluded before the convention and not by the date stated on the entry blank. Congratulations to our Wisconsin winners shown here!

MARYN VANZON – Rosendale & Brandon Lions Club (B1) “A leader is somebody who sets an example for people, not only to act respectfully or be kind to others, but also to push people to be the best they can be. Somebody who tries hard to make a difference and puts in the effort to make changes is somebody who others look up to and are inspired by daily. Throughout history, there have been several remarkable people who are known today for leading with compassion and bravery. On my poster, I included only a small portion of the leaders that will forever leave a mark on people’s lives.”

INSIDE STATEWIDE ARTICLES:

Peace Poster Winners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2 2023 MD27 State Convention. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5 Lion BJ Blahnik Elected as Next Council Chair. . . . . . . . . . 7 The Future of the Wisconsin Lions Newspaper. . . . . . . . . . 7 Regional Lions Learning Institute Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Curling Bonspiel 2023. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

COMMITTEE/DISTRICT UPDATES:

Lions Pride Endowment Fund. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Wisconsin Lions Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Message from Council Chair Tammy Rockenbach. . . . . . 8 Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 District Reports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-29 Memorials & Honorariums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Award Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

2ND PLACE

CIERA WARD 11 years old McFarland Lions Club (D1) “We can grow something beautiful that unites us all when we work together”

ANNALISE ROMINE 12 years old Muskego Lions Club (A1) “The mountains in my poster represent the struggle in our lives that are blocking our way. The sunrise shows that we can overcome those struggles when we lift each other up and lead one another with peace, love, faith and compassion.”

3RD PLACE

KAIA DELF 12 years old Rice Lake Lions (E1) MARY BACKMANN “We are compassionately leading by 12 years old connecting with others” DePere Lions …continued on page 2 Club (B2)

WINNERS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

HANNAH JOHANSSON 13 years old Columbus Lions Club (A2) “Peace is our best Shield” HANNA SCHINDLER 12 years old Marshfield Lion Club (C1) ALYSSA BULLEN 13 years old Sparta Lions Club (D2) “Compassionate leaders around the world appreciating the races around them”

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ZOE PANSKE 11 Years old Hudson Lions Club (E2) “Peace Means everyone is welcome and treated with kindness and respect. We should all stand together with peace to keep our world happy and calm” MIRANDA SCHNEIDER 13 years old Hazelhurst Lions Club (C2) “Everyone, everywhere can help others, and lead people to peace”

International Guest: Robert K.Y. Lee

The 2023 Wisconsin Lions State Convention will be held at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Stevens Point May 11-13.

2023 MD27 State Convention BY CO-CHAIRS PCC EVETT HARTVIG AND PDG BRAD BEHRENS

Please join your fellow Lions and Leos this year by participating in the 2023 Wisconsin Lions State Convention that will be held at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Stevens Point from May 11th through the 13th. For all golf enthusiasts, start out the convention by playing 18 holes of golf at the beautiful Glacier Wood Golf Course in Iola, Wisconsin on Thursday, May 11th. For anyone who has been there, you know it is one of the premium golf courses in our state. You can register for golf by going to our State Convention Website md272023stateconvention.com to get the form or email PDG Robert Henning for more information. rhenning4065@gmail.com Everyone is invited to visit your Wisconsin Lions Camp on Thursday evening. For $20, you can enjoy the tailgate party with brats, hamburgers, hot dogs and all the fixins’. The entire Foundation Staff and WLF Directors will be there to greet you, as well as give you a tour of the facilities to see some of the changes that have taken place recently, and give you information on major upcoming projects. The event will be from 4:30-7:30 pm and food will be served from 5:30-6:30 pm. To register for the Tailgate Party, visit the website and download the form or email PCC Evett Hartvig at evetthartvig@gmail.com And speaking of the Staff, you will have the opportunity to meet all of the year-round staff at the opening Luncheon on Friday. They are the backbone of the Foundation and are the people that make things happen. When you see them, please pass along your thanks and gratitude for what they do! The Committee has many interesting and educational seminars they are working to confirm for Friday and Saturday. They include presentations from the Restoring Hope Transplant House, Lions Camp, Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin and educational seminars about diabetic cooking, leadership succession, Mental Health and bullying issues, Wisconsin gaming rules, setting up a 501(c)(3) for Lions Clubs and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM). There are so many opportunities to get information about Lions and what we do, as well as learn about current issues that arise locally that your club can help. Register online for the entire Convention and don’t forget the separate registration forms for golf and the tailgate party at Camp.

Your Source for:

LIONS APPAREL * STATE LIONS APPAREL

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Robert K Y Lee from Honolulu, Hawaii, was elected to serve a two-year term as a director of Lions Clubs International at the association’s 104th International Convention, last June. Director Lee is a graduate civil engineer and a licensed professional land surveyor with over 50 years experience. He is the president of a small consulting and surveying company. A member of the Honolulu Chinatown Robert KY Lee brings Lions Club since 1990, he has held many his years of service in offices within the association, including Hawaii as he speaks as our club secretary and president, zone and international guest. region chairperson, district membership, extension, and retention chairperson, and district governor. Director Lee served as host committee chairperson of the 2015 International Convention in Honolulu. In addition, he is past chairperson of the Lions Eye Bank of Hawaii, as well as past president and trustee of the Hawaii Lions Foundation. In recognition of his service to the association, he has received numerous awards including multiple International President’s Awards, an International President’s Leadership Award, and LCIF Chairperson’s Award. He is also a Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow. Director Lee and his wife, Pamela, who is also a Lion and Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow, have three daughters, four grandchildren, two greatgranddaughters and four grand-dogs.

Luncheon speaker: Todd Kukkahn: Todd Kuckkahn’s passion for leadership and culture earned him an independent speaker, coach, teacher, and trainer certification with (John C.) Maxwell Leadership. Throughout his career, Todd has presented countless presentations, workshops, and seminars at local, state, national and international conferences. Todd is passionate about sharing his experience and knowledge in communication, leadership, generations, personal growth, and company culture. Todd Kukkahn will A few words from Todd… “Our world speak on embracing the is full of change and uncertainty. There diversity and uncertainty to retain and attract is drama in our organizations and members in our Clubs. workplace. Individuals are unintentionally creating barriers and silos for effective communication. This impacts talent retention and attraction in the workplace and membership retention and attraction in membership organizations like the Lions. If we don’t figure it out soon, our communities will be further torn apart. The one diversity where little attention is being paid is generational diversity. I remember my parents saying, “those darn kids nowadays”. Now, many of us are saying it. There are currently seven generations in the world and five in the workplace, both the most ever. We must come to the realization soon that differences make us better. That is true racially, generationally, and a multitude of other differences across our streets and oceans. What our alpha generations are looking for is meaningful engagement. They don’t want to do it because it has always been done that way, but so they can put their passion and perseverance behind something meaningful. I will share some of the key differences between generations, what causes some of the divisiveness, and what we can do to direct change as a starting point for engaging and meaningful communication.”

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 3

MD27 State Convention 2023

Trailblazers for the Next Century May 11th - May 13th Club

EVENT FEES

• • • •

Registration: Lion

$25 $12

Friday Lunch Saturday Breakfast

$30 $21

Saturday Lunch

$25

Saturday Banquet: Pork Ribeye Saturday Banquet: Chicken Cordon Bleu Convention Pin

$45 $45

Leo

District •

Holiday Inn Convention Center, Stevens Point

All attendees should be pre-registered (meals not guaranteed for walk-in registrations) Attendee email addresses will be used to provide additional information before the Convention Title refers to President, Secretary, District Governor, etc. Convention registration not required to participate in Golf Outing Golf is a separate registration

Meal Reservations required by May 1st Please Type or Print Clearly & Check All that Apply 1. Name / Title

 Lion  Leo  Guest  First Timer

Reg $

Fri. Sat. Sat. Sat. Lunch Breakfast Lunch Banqt $

Pin(s)

Sub-Total $

 Pork  Chick

Food Allergy / Dietary Restriction 2. Name / Title Email

 Lion  Leo  Guest  First Timer

 Pork  Chick

Food Allergy / Dietary Restriction 3. Name / Title Email

 Pork  Chick

Food Allergy / Dietary Restriction

Send completed registration form & checks payable to: State Convention 2023 c/o Paula Ruesch 231198 Pickard Ave, Abbotsford, WI 54405 treasurerpaula@frontier.com or 715-302-1177

Total

Refund Policy: Full refunds will be issued if cancellation is made in writing by April 28, 2023 to Convention Registrar at treasurerpaula@frontier.com. No refunds will be issued if cancellation is received after this date or if the registrant is a no show.

4 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

Hotel Accommodations Holiday Inn Convention Center 1001 Amber Avenue, Stevens Point, WI 54482 Make your reservations today! (715) 344-0200 press 3 (Lions Group) (LIC group block code) Room rates start at $129 + tax Cut off date is April 10th. After that, remaining block of rooms will be released for general reservations!

Exhibitor Tables

Commercial Vendors $50/day + $15/day for Elec Lions/NonProfits/Pin Traders – no sales Free; $15 w/electric Space is limited & reserved on a 1st come, 1st serve basis Send reservations to: PDG John Zimmer johncz2190@gmail.com

2023 Lions State Convention GOLF TOURNAMENT

Lions Camp Social

check in by 9 am Shotgun start at 10 am

Thursday, May 11, 2023 3834 County Rd A, Rosholt, WI 54473

Open to all Lions, Leo's & Friends. $20/person includes: Tailgate Meal - Brats and Hamburgers Tours - Walking and Wagon and the Trading Post will be open.

Checks payable to & mailed by May 1st: District 27-C1 c/o Paula Ruesch, Treasurer 231198 Pickard Avenue, Abbotsford, WI 54405

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES Book Size Full Page (5” x 8”) 1/2 Page (5” x 4”) 1/4 Page (5” x 2”)

Cost $150 $100 $50

Reserve your ad space by contacting: PCC Evett Hartvig evetthartvig@gmail.com

4-Person Golf Scramble Thursday, May 11th

Glacier Wood Golf Club 604 Water Street, Iola, WI 54945 www.glacierwoodiola.com

$100/golfer • 18 holes with cart Lunch on the turn (box lunch) • • $10,000 Hole-in-One prize • Prizes, raffles, betting holes & much more! Open to all Lions, Leos & Friends. Convention registration not required to participate in Golf Tournament. Sign up as a Team or Individually. Checks payable to & mailed by May 1st: District 27-C1 c/o Paula Ruesch, Treasurer 231198 Pickard Avenue, Abbotsford, WI 54405 Questions? Lion Bob Henning rhenning4065@gmail.com

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 5

MD27 STATE MERCHANDISE ORDER FORM NAME

MARCH / APRIL 2023

ADDRESS

Volume 69 No. 5

CITY/STATE/ZIP PHONE / EMAIL

NOTE: UPS will not deliver to a P.O. Box. Please provide a street address. Prices include tax. COST

AMOUNT

PINS 2017: Centennial Pin

$1.50

2018: Monarch Butterfly

$1.00

2019: Karner Blue Butterfly

$1.00

2020: Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly

$1.00

SPECIAL SALE - 2020 State Convention

$1.00

2021: Bog Copper Butterfly

$1.00

2022: Centennial Pin

$2.50

2023: Walleye Pin

NEW!

Back Patch

$3.00 $5.00

Shipping & Handling 1-8 pins:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6.25 9-14 pins:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7.55 15-25 pins:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10.75 25+ pins: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Call for cost 1-4 back patches: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6.30 5-12 back patches:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7.80

TOTAL: Send your order & payment (incl S&H) to: Wisconsin Lions State Office 3834 Cty Rd A Rosholt WI 54473

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Wisconsin Lion (USPS No. 688-740) is published six times a year for the 17,500 Lions of Wisconsin at 3834 County Road A, Rosholt, WI 54473. Periodical postage paid at Rosholt, WI and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send form 3579 with new address to: 3834 County Road A Rosholt, WI 54473 DEADLINE: 1st of preceding month. EDITORIAL BOARD Bert Freeman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chair Patty Hollis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vice Chair Geri Schlender. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . GLT Don Drew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . GST BJ Blahnik. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .GMT Evett Hartvig. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WLF Michele Brooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LEBW DISTRICT EDITORS A1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . a1@wilions.org A2. . . . . . . . . . 27a2editor@gmail.com B1. . . . terryerbstoesser@gmail.com B2. . . . . . . . . . . . . 27b2pr@gmail.com C1. . . . . . . . . c1lionnews@gmail.com C2. . . . sanderson.cherie@gmail.com D1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pr@lions27d1.org D2. . . wilions27d2news@gmail.com E1. . . . . . . . barb.dulmes@gmail.com E2. . . . . . . . chamaca@frontiernet.net STORY SUBMISSIONS Articles and events (accompanied by photos of Lions in action) should explain the successful completion of a project or fundraising activity and should be submitted to that Club’s District Editor. Include a mailing address, daytime phone and e-mail of the person submitting the story. Submission guidelines at: wisconsinlions.org/wisconsin-lion/ Statewide content can be submitted to DG Bert Freeman at lionsubway206@gmail.com. Recognition for Melvin Jones, Birch-Sturm, Knight of Sight & Ray Hempel awards should be submitted to the State Editor at jen@jennifercreative.com. ADVERTISING & SUBSCRIPTION OFFICES: Subscriptions: $10/ yr. Contact the State Office for details. CHANGE OF MAIL/EMAIL ADDRESS Contact your Club Secretary AND the State Office at md27@ wisconsinlions.org with updates to your mailing and/or email address.

OUR MISSION To empower Lions clubs, volunteers, and partners to improve health and well-being, strengthen communities, and support those in need through humanitarian services and grants that impact lives globally, and encourage peace and international understanding. OUR VISION To be the global leader in community and humanitarian service.

MD27 CONTACTS COUNCIL CHAIR: Tammy Rockenbach 212 Sterling Dr. Oregon, WI 53575 608-438-9572 lzrock@charter.net INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR: Lee Vrieze (Mary) 18807 122nd Ave Jim Falls,WI 54748 (715) 382-3404 lvrieze2@charter.net STATE OFFICE: JoAnn Burk, Office Manager 3834 County Rd A Rosholt, WI 54473 715-677-4764 md27@wisconsinlions.org LIONS EYE BANK OF WISCONSIN: Stacey Troha, CEO 5003 Tradewinds Parkway Madison, WI 53718 608-233-2354 info@lebw.org WISCONSIN LIONS FOUNDATION OFFICE: Evett J. Hartvig, Executive Director 3834 County Road A Rosholt, WI 54473 877-463-6953 ehartvig@wlf.info LIONS PRIDE ENDOWMENT FUND OFFICE: Amber Young 3834 County Road A Rosholt, WI 54473 715-677-7000 prideoffice@lionspride.org

Visit

WISCONSINLIONS.ORG/EVENTS for a list of event and accompanying registration forms.

Keep up with all the latest Wisconsin Lion news and share your news, too ‘MD27 Lions of Wisconsin’ on Facebook

Lion BJ Blahnik Elected as Next Council Chair As Council Chair Blahnik will help guide the Wisconsin Council of Governors for 2023-2024

BJ Blahnik became a Lion by joining the Ashwaubenon Lions Club in 2006 and now belongs to the Town of Sheboygan Lions Club. Lion BJ was District Governor for Sub-District B1 during 2021-2022 and currently is the Multiple District Global Membership Team (GMT) Chairperson. BJ is visually impaired and is supported by his guide dog Leader Dog Jackson. Lion BJ is also a motivational speaker, a member of the United States Blind Sailing Team and the President of a NonProfit organization VISION which supports the visually impaired to overcome obstacles in life through learning how to sail. Lion BJ is married to Lion Victoria and they have 3 children, Emmitt, Trevor and Harvey. BJ and Victoria married in 2010 and live in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. They own and operate their business, Reach Forward, which helps those with special needs through Day Services and Residential programming. Both Lion BJ and Lion Victoria are excited to help guide the incoming Council of Governors towards the continuation of improving the strength of the Wisconsin Lions. When you see them, please stop and say hello.

The Future of the Wisconsin Lions Newspaper

Regional Lions Learning Institute Update BY MD GLT COORDINATOR, PCC GERI SCHLENDER

Another successful Learning/Leadership Opportunity was held in MD27. The Regional Lions Learning Institute (RLLI) took place January 13 through the 15th.RLLI took place at Lions Camp. Twenty Lions from nine districts attended. The RLLI is designed so that area leaders have the flexibility to customize the curriculum to best meet the needs of their clubs. RLLI consists of interactive training where participants learn valuable leadership skills and strategies for overcoming obstacles and creating opportunities. With the flexibility afforded the RLLI training team, several new sessions were added to the curriculum, they were: Servant Leadership, Ethics, Building Communities, GMA and Swot Analysis. Evaluations from participants were very positive. One participant commented “I appreciate the time it took to put RLLI together, this was a wonderful opportunity”. Another commented “The discussion and interaction with others was a great part of the learning process.” Still another said, “SWOT was great!” One Lion mentioned that the best part of RLLI was “Meeting with other leaders/Lions wanting to lead”. It is impossible to have a successful Institute without a committed faculty and kudos go out to ID Lee Vrieze, PID Connie LeCleir-Meyer and IPDG David Strudthoff. These trainers were dedicated to make this RLLI a meaningful and valuable experience for all RLLI participants. When the chance to attend an Institute presents itself here are some reasons why you should consider attending: • It will boost your confidence. • It will help you navigate/manage change • It will improve your communication skills • It will help you establish goals • It will allow you to learn with other Lions/ leaders There are many opportunities today to learn especially with Lions Learning on line, Lions University etc. but live events like RLLI provide unique learning opportunities that you just can’t find anywhere else.

BY EDITORIAL BOARD CHAIR DG BERT FREEMAN

At the January 21st, 2023 meeting of the Council of Governors’, a resolution was passed to give those attending the State Convention the opportunity to vote on the future of the paper copy of the Wisconsin Lions Newspaper. The Council of Governors passed this resolution 9-1, allowing a vote on a digital only copy and eliminating the newsprint paper. Why the need for a vote? The rising cost of printing/mailing and the postal increases warranted another look at the future of the print/mailed newspaper. The increases for printing/mailing were up 15-20% and the 4.3% for postage, which came into play, January 22nd, 2023. Another future mail increase could take place July 2023 and January 2024. The 2022-23 budget for the WLN was $63,240, currently, we project $9230 over budget for the balance of this fiscal year. The projection for the budget for the upcoming fiscal year is $80,000. This cost includes: Graphic Design, Print Production, Mailing, Returns, and Postage. The cost, for just the Graphic Design, will be $16,000. A meeting will be held prior to the voting at the 2023 State Convention. No date and time have been determined for this event at this time. Stay tuned for updates.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 7

Lions Pride Endowment Fund 715-677-7000 | prideoffice@lionspride.org | lionspride.org

Into the New Year 2023 with Lions Pride Endowment Fund BY RENEE PETERSON, PRESIDENT LIONS PRIDE ENDOWMENT FUND

I’ m w r i t i ng t o introduce myself as the new President of the Lions Pride Endowment Fund of Wisconsin. I’ve enjoyed my Lions journey to date, and I’m excited to be transitioning into this new role. Even though I love my local Lions <insert Horicon Lions shout out>, and just received my 20 year pin, I have always felt like I wanted to do more. So, several years ago, I became a Cabinet Secretary/Treasurer. That’s how I learned about the Wisconsin Lions Foundation. I later joined the foundation board and was soon asked to represent the WLF on the Lions Pride board. And as the saying goes, the rest is history. In my professional career, I am a Vice President at Horicon Bank, where I manage

Lions Pride Shoot June 10, 2023 Milford Hills Hunt Club, Johnson Creek Watch our website for registration and details.

our talent acquisition and development. In my spare time, I am the Board Treasurer of the Wisconsin Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired and a member of the Horicon Helping Hands community project. I have lived in Horicon most of my life, but also spend a lot of time near Kingston, where my husband and I built a second home, in the middle of a tree farm (the big, tall kind, not the Christmas tree kind.). On social media, I’m mostly known as Radar and Matilda’s mom, #dogmom. My goal is to continue to grow Lions Pride Endowment through education and awareness

of the impact that we have through supporting the Foundation and it’s initiatives. As I wrap up my introduction, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the great leadership of PID Wayne Heiman. The long legacy of the camp isn’t just sustained through our Endowment, but also through people like Wayne, ensuring that the board is strong in its succession planning, to carry on the work for many years to come. To contact President Renee Peterson directly, call 920-210-8940 or email reneep@horiconbank.com

Current Board Members: Sue Selner, Treasurer; Amber Young, Admin Asst; Greg Pryor, board member at large; David Abstetar, WLF Rep; John Schiferl, board member at large; Wayne Heiman, Immediate Past President; Renee Peterson, President; David Carl, Vice President. Not shown: Art Marson, Secretary; Dennis Christianson, board member; Sue Shakal, board member; John Suby, at large; Robert Bertch, COG Representative; Richard Karl, board member.

Council Chair Report

Goals! Why are we so reluctant to establish goals? BY COUNCIL CHAIR TAMMY ROCKENBACH

We set goals in our daily lives all the time without even thinking about it. Daily goals may include making the bed, getting dressed in the morning, what to make for meals. We accomplish these things every (most) days. Do we write these down? Probably not. These are goals that are ingrained in us, that we do without thinking. Are you a list maker? This may be the start of accomplishing goals. We took the time to determine what we need to do. We may

have several lists/goals leading up to larger lists/goals. And as we complete those items, we feel accomplished. Do we not feel more accomplished than when we complete the everyday goals that we did not write down? The most successful people in life and in business have personal goals. They write them down, they make progress towards accomplishing them, and finally they cross them off. And as goals are completed, new goals take their place. Did they do a personal SWOT (strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats) analysis? Probably. As we want our clubs to be successful, we need to take the time to do the same things.

8 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

Do a survey of your club for the strengths and weaknesses. Check with your communities for opportunities and threats. Determine your team to analyze the information. Now, what does your club want and need to do? How are you getting there? Having a formal goal allows you to cross items off your list. It gives the sense of accomplishment. It is accomplishment! You are now ready to serve your community as a successful club. As we approach a new Lions year, make sure your team is working with the new team coming in. I want to welcome Council Chair Elect BJ Blahnik to our state team. Congratulations!

Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin 877-233-2354 | info@lebw.org | lebw.org

LEBW Welcomes a New Director of Clinical & Technical Services Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin (LEBW) is pleased to welcome Tolulope Oyedun, MD, FWACS, MRCSEd (Ophth), as the Director of Clinical & Te c h n i c a l Services. D r. Oyedun received her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) at the University of Ilorin. She is a Fellow of the West African College of Surgeons, Faculty of Ophthalmology, and is also a Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. She is certified in Clinical Ophthalmology, Visual Sciences, and Optics, Refraction, and Instruments through the International Council of Ophthalmology. For the last

four years, she worked as a Senior Resident and Clinical Researcher at the Department of Ophthalmology, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, IleIfe, in Nigeria. Dr. Oyedun will oversee the operations and administration of the Clinical and Technical Department, including the Laboratory, Recovery, and Tissue Processing Services. We are confident that Dr. Oyedun will take excellent care of our staff, surgeons, and patients waiting to receive the gift of sight worldwide.

Congratulations to Recently Promoted Employees We are also excited to announce several recently promoted employees: • Nick Waite, Director of External Affairs • Allison Driggett, Donor Support Center Manager

• Hannah Tilley, Business Administration & Human Resources Manager Congratulations all!

Save the Date On Saturday, April 15, 2023, Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin, and Anderson & Shapiro Eye Clinic will host a health fair, which will include free vision and hearing screenings, information about diabetes care, and organ, eye, and tissue donation. This event will take place at the Anderson & Shapiro office at 1200 John Q Hammons Drive, Suite 100, Madison, Wisconsin, from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. For more information, contact Adam Crowson at acrowson@lebw.org or 877.233.2354, ext. 212.

Wisconsin Lions Foundation 715-677-4969 | 877-463-6953 | wlf@wlf.info | wlf.info

What we do for Others Remains Immortal BY LION LARRY TESTA, PRESIDENT, WISCONSIN LIONS FOUNDATION

My article in the last issue addressed making New Year resolutions and I suggested one of them be to become more knowledgeable about what your Wisconsin Lions Foundation has to offer to you, your club, your community and the State. My hope is that some of you took that suggestion to heart and have checked out our website to see all of the information/resources that are available. Another great way to learn about your Foundation and the five statewide projects we administer is to visit us. Our Staff is looking forward to welcoming guests to the Wisconsin Lions Foundation, Inc. throughout 2023. We have multiple options available to fit your needs. Visitor Days will be held on Wednesdays from 2:00-4:00 pm throughout the summer… June 7, 14, 21, 28; July 5, 12, 19, 26; August 2. Anyone can attend but spots must be reserved in advance. There is a limit of 25 spaces per week and they are filled on a first come, first

serve basis. Visitor Days include a walking tour of the Camp, tour of the Wisconsin Lions Foundation building and Eyeglass Recycling Center, a wagon ride around Lions Lake on the newly finished wagon trail, and a visit to Trading Post for all your Wisconsin Lions Camp merchandise needs. Lions Clubs who would like their entire club to visit our facility but cannot make the scheduled Visitor Days have the opportunity to schedule a private event at Camp throughout the summer. Summer Lions Club visits include an abbreviated walking tour, opportunity for a wagon ride around Lions Lake based on availability, and a visit to Trading Post for an opportunity to purchase Lions Camp merchandise. Lions Clubs are also able to hold their meetings in the Rec Shelter or Board Room and have access to grills to hold a cookout for their members. Available dates for 2023 are Mondays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays from June 6th through August 3rd between the hours of 9:00 am – 8:00 pm. Lions Clubs are also able to schedule a private event at Camp outside of the summer, based on availability. These visits include a walking tour, wagon ride around Lions Lake (seasonal) and a visit to the Trading Post. Lions

Clubs are welcome to hold their meetings in the Rec Shelter (seasonal) or Board Room and have access to grills to have a cookout for their members. Due to the facility being rented by private groups throughout the year, Lions Clubs must reserve their event in advance. Weekday events are preferred but weekend events will be considered on a case-by-case basis. There are many opportunities and options for you to visit us at Lions Camp. The only thing we ask is that you call in advance and reserve your time, regardless of which option you would like. Please contact Phillip Potter, Hospitality Director, (715) 677-4969 ext. 316 or phillip.potter@wisconsinlionscamp.com I can still remember the first time I visited Camp. It was on Sunday, Father’s Day, 2001. My wife and I were on a school bus with 12 campers. They had all been to Camp before and when they saw the picture of the Lion for the turnoff to Camp, the excitement in the bus was contagious. To this day, I can close my eyes and still hear their shouts of joy! “When you meet someone for the first time, that’s not the whole book. That’s just the first page.” -Brady Armstrong - Plan a trip to Camp and start your new book!

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 9

27-A1 NEWS

wilions.org

Thank You!

PCC DAN EBERHARDT JR., DISTRICT 27-A1 COORDINATOR

For many years Lions from all over the State of Wisconsin have collected deer hides and tails in support of the Wisconsin Lions Camp. The collection of deer hides started as an idea in 1988 from Past WLF Director Bernie Stuttgen. Since then, this project has snowballed. District 27-A1 started in the 1990’s with only two hides. District 27-A1 started the project, it has grown every year and has topped the previous year’s numbers. This year 27-A1 collected 1638 hides. An increase of 582 hides from last year. There are many ways that Lions can participate, including having a collection point, donating salt/supplies to a collection point, sharing fliers, and getting the word out on social media. If your club is interested, please go to the website wlf.info/deer-hides-collection and it has all the information to make that happen. Every little bit matters to make this a success. There are not enough words to express gratitude to all of those that have made this cause a success. All the people, donors, organizers, buyers, and Clubs that participated.District 27-A1 Clubs that held collection points in 2022 include Big Foot Fontana, Big Bend/Vernon, Burlington, Caledonia, East Troy, Franklin, Paddock Lake, South Milwaukee, Tichigan, and Whitewater.

MUSKEGO LIONS CLUB – Educating our youth before they get to high school about the dangers of drugs and teaching them how to avoid risky situations is a function of the D.A.R.E. program. When it was unable to train officers in 2021, it created a shortage and two middle schools needed help! The committee sent letters to community businesses asking for financial support and in June, held its 2nd annual Wish Lantern event. They facilitated a $5,000 donation to Officer Lange and the Muskego Police Department.

BIG BEND/VERNON LIONS CLUB – The Clubs donated $1,000 to “MS Just Keep Moving.” The organization is a free gym dedicated to helping people with Multiple Sclerosis. The Waukesha gym provides a place for people with MS to work on strength and movement in a space of encouragement and friendship. The organization plans on maintaining and expanding the gym. There are 20 to 25 volunteers who help in assisting people with MS on and off the exercise machines. Pictured in left photo is Lion President Donnie Walsh, Lion Bob Brandemuehl and Dan Erschen of “MS Just Keep Moving.” In right photo, members of “MS Just Keep Moving.”

BIG BEND/VERNON & MUSKEGO LIONS CLUBS– The Clubs showered the Southern Wisconsin Center (SWC) with Christmas presents once again this year. SWC serves adult clients with intellectual disabilities combined with other physical or mental health disorders. 110 residents received gifts. Also donated were five grills for the cottages, two Keurigs with cups, and a microwave along with snacks for the staff break rooms. Pictured: Big Bend/Vernon Lions ~ Rick Rosiak, Sue Nicgorski, President Donnie Walsh, Mary Lewandowski, and Lynn Sprecher. Muskego Lions ~ President Matt Watry, Don Edwardsen, Ron Petersen and Mike Kuspa.

FRANKLIN LIONESS/LIONS CLUB – The Club has been busy. They bring a little joy to residents in a nursing home by sponsoring bingo at Elizabeth Residence every other month. They support three food banks for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. The goal is to provide everyone in the Franklin area, no matter their finances, an enjoyable holiday meal. They support St. Martin of Tours, Faith Presbyterian, and St. James Food Banks. On December 3rd, they participated in the Franklin Christmas parade. This was a wonderful opportunity to display our new banner and hand out candy. In December, a couple of members assisted the Salvation Army shop and distributed presents for underprivileged children at the distribution center in Milwaukee. Also, several of our members were Salvation Army bell ringers at various Pick ’n Save locations. Bell Ringers pictured: Gloria Grabarcyzk, Judie Gamboa, Vicky Gabrus, Pam Lehouillier, Georgia Ness and Helen Kacmarynski. Pictured in the Christmas Parade: Peg Kukla, Lindsay Safranek, Gloria Grabarcyzk, Pam Lehouillier and Vicky Gabrus. Vicky Gabrus and Cindy Johnson are pictured helping the Salvation Army distribute Christmas toys.

MUSKEGO LIONS CLUB – Girl Scout Lily Pemble, started working on her Gold Award in April of 2021. The issue she wanted to address with the project was the lack of summer camps geared towards children with special needs. Working with the special education teacher at Bay Lane Elementary School, she designed “Camp Day Kits”. These kits include everything school staff needs to hold a day camp right at school. They have activity binders for arts and crafts, music, and games packed full of awesome ideas. The kits also included a giant wheelchair accessible tent that all the students and staff could fit in. In November of 2021, Lily met with the Muskego Lions Club. They discussed her project and its financial needs. The Club was excited about the project and enthusiastic to help. Getting supplies for two kits, especially everything needed to make two tents, was no easy task and certainly not a cheap one. The Club offered to donate the funds she needed to purchase all four pop-up canopies! Lily visited the Club again in September to tell them about the successful project. Lily is so grateful for the Club’s continued support and encouragement.

10 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

EDITOR:

FROM THE 27-A1 DISTRICT GOVERNOR

DAVID STEDMAN

Monday, March 6th, 5-8 pm 6031 W. Layton Ave, Greenfield

Community Meal

Thursday, March 16th, 4-7pm First Congregational Church 1111 S. Chicago Avenue, South Milwaukee

St Patrick’s Day Party

Friday, March 17th, 9:30am – 5pm Oak Creek Community Center, Irish Food, Bar Olympics, Irish Dancing

Cornhole Tournament

Saturday, March 18th Lions Community Center, Dousman

3.1 Zone Meeting

Thursday, March 23rd New Berlin V.F.W. Hall, 17980 W. Beloit Rd.

Bay View Lions Pancake Breakfast/ Egg Hunt Saturday, March 25th Humboldt Park Pavilion 3000 S Howell Ave, Milwaukee

PROSPECT LIONS CLUB – Knowing the need is always greater during the winter season, the Club focused their efforts in November and December toward feeding the hungry. They would like to thank all who came to their Wine & Beer Tasting and their Drive-thru Wine Sale. All proceeds from these events went directly to the New Berlin Food pantry. Also during those months, they teamed with a local deli to deliver complete dinners to a family shelter in Waukesha. Pictured: Lion Sue Neckar. GENOA CITY LIONS CLUB – Club President Greg Pryor presented a donation to Officer Kevin Saunders for the Twin Lakes Police Department’s Shop with a Hero Program.

27-A1 CONVENTION – Canned goods were collected at the District Convention. The food was delivered to the Waukesha Food Pantry.

West Allis Lions Club 48th Annual Spaghetti Dinner Sunday, March 26th St. Augustine’s School, 2025 S. 67th Pl.

Spring Bowling Night

Friday, March 31st Lake Ripley Lanes, Cambridge

Oak Creek Lions MKE Brewers Home Opening Day Watch Party Monday, April 3rd , 10:30am – 5pm Oak Creek Community Center • Includes food, beer and soda. • Check Presentation to The Little Warrior Foundation and District Childhood Cancer Match Challenge.

Prospect Lions Club Steak and Shrimp Dinner

Friday, April 28th, 4:30-7:00pm New Berlin VFW Post, 17980 W Beloit Rd.

NEW BERLIN LIONS CLUB – Over $96,000 was presented to three dozen organizations as a part of January’s Parade of Checks - the largest in their 73-year history. Work at the State Fair Corn booth and 4th of July celebration makes this possible. The largest recipient was the Wisconsin Lions Foundation. Lions International, Vision Forward, and 35 non-Lions groups including the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight also received funds. Pictured are Lion Rich Nuccio, Dennis Ziebell, President Patt Goerke, and Kent Rice.

South Milwaukee Fundraiser Night at Culvers

R IST ICT D

tubabuzz@charter.net 920-650-2113

TICHIGAN LAKE LIONS CLUB – Wisconsin Coaches Basketball Association (WCBA) just recently award Tichigan Lions member Ron Kluth for his achievement in winning 345 games in his 19 years of coaching. A combined record of 344 W & 132 L for a 722% winning percentage at Franklin High School and Brookfield Academy, winning a total of 10 conference championships and four state appearances.

Patti Hurtgen | a1@wilions.org | 612-616-5383

VERNO

How Firm A Foundation Many have heard the saying, “A foolish man builds his house upon the sand, while a wise man builds his house upon the rock.” How true this is for any structure – or organization. As Lions we are fortunate that our foundation is strong, thanks to the generosity of our members, both through individual and club donations. It has always been the mission of Lions Clubs International Foundation, which was founded in 1968, to empower Lions Clubs, volunteers, and partners to improve health and well-being, strengthen communities, and support those in need through humanitarian services and grants that impact lives globally, and encourage peace and international understanding. Our foundation’s history is filled with high-impact projects, meaningful partnerships, and the kindness and efforts of Lions everywhere. We know that 100% of the contributions given to Lions Clubs International Foundation goes back into our communities through the many grants and projects that our foundation supports. Whether it be vision, youth, disaster relief, humanitarian efforts, diabetes awareness, childhood cancer, the environment, or hunger, our Foundation provides aid and truly makes a difference in the lives of people around the world. Recently, right here in Wisconsin we have received grants from Lions Clubs International Foundation to help in the purchase of a flow cytometer, used in immunotherapy treatment of blood cancers, providing a “Healing Space” at the Marshfield Clinic Hospital in Marshfield, our Wisconsin Centennial Video project, and the ability to purchase vision screening devices to improve our vision screening efforts. These are just a few ways our Foundation has given back to our communities. Even though we have just completed Campaign 100 where our foundation raised over $325,000,000 to support Lions service around the world, our International President Brian Sheehan wants to remind all of us that our work is not done and wants all Lions to help keep our foundation strong. If you wonder whether your contributions to our foundation are worth the effort, just look again at that list of recent grants that have been awarded to our multiple district and know we get back more than what we invest. Remember that your contributions to Lions Clubs International Foundation can come back in the form of recognition for members of your club in the form of Melvin Jones Fellowships. For every $1,000 that your club or individuals has accumulated in credit for donations to LCIF, a Melvin Jones Fellowship can be given to deserving individuals. LCIF has dedicated their energies to increase the ability of Lions everywhere to meet the humanitarian needs worldwide and couldn’t be prouder of where they stand. With continued support, you can count on Lions Clubs International Foundation to expand programs to improve lives around the world far into the future.

OAK CREEK LIONS CLUB – Lions Rob, Joe, and President Bruce deliver a $1,500 donation to Strides, an organization dedicated to assisting special needs. Students gain independence by learning life and job skills.

SOUTH MILWAUKEE LIONS CLUB – 25 boxes of eye tissue or recovery kits in 15 transports were completed. These provide the gift of sight in Wisconsin, the U.S., and internationally. This represented 35 service hours by 15 Club members. Transports were made from medical facilities in the Milwaukee area to Johnson Creek, as well as pick ups in Johnson Creek that were delivered to the Milwaukee area.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 11

27-A2 NEWS

lionsdistrict27a2.org

Random Act of Kindness, Paying it Forward BY LION SRI VASUDEVAN

GRAFTON LIONS CLUB – Three new members were inducted into the Club in the past few months and we would like to welcome them and look forward to their new ideas and service to the Club and community. It is always great to increase the membership and feel the enthusiasm they bring. Pictured (left photo): Past District Governor, Lion Barry Boline, new member Jan Teuscher, sponsor Lion Carrie Buri and Grafton Lions President Rose Sauers. Pictured (right photo): Lion Tim Kohlwey, new member Matt Demler, Lion Dan Delorit, new member Dennis Pampel, Past District Governor, Dan Montaine, and Grafton Lions President Rose Sauers.

LEBANON LIONS CLUB – The Club purchases, maintains and exchanges Lebanon town banners and Christmas decorations twice per year. The decoration theme is renewed!

COMBINED LIONS CLUBS – The ASHIPPUN, ALLENTON, BEAVER DAM, HUSTISFORD and WATERTOWN Lions Clubs all worked together to collect deer hides. Each Lions Club had a designated drop off area for the hides. Lion members picked up and delivered the hides to Luedtke Manufacturing. At Luedtke Manufacturing Lion members salted and sorted the hides before they were picked up and delivered. Pictured is Lion Jerry Feutz of the Ashippun Lions Club salting a hide.

ASHIPPUN LIONS CLUB – The Ashippun Lions Club packed and delivered 150 food boxes to area residents. Lion Members packed the boxes on Friday night, December 20th . The boxes were delivered the next morning by the Club members. This is an annual project for the Ashippun Lions Club. Boxes are delivered to the long-term residents of Ashippun and to families, who experienced a death in the family, an illness or other event. The Club receives many thank you notes from the recipients for this worthwhile annual project.

12 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

After our usual dinner and meeting of the Port Washington Lions Club at Plier’s Full Circle Pub and Restaurant, we were informed by the manager of the restaurant that a “kind lady had inquired regarding which group was meeting.” After being informed that it was the local Lions Club, this lady paid our bill in full, noting that she knew that the Lions provided important services to their communities. Her unexpected gratitude was so greatly appreciated by our members that they decided to use the money that had contributed for the dinner that the kind lady paid for, a total of $520, to support service projects of our Club. On behalf of the members of the club, I would like to say thank you to this individual for her kindness. This pay-it-forward gesture will benefit the Port Washington community and sets a great example for others. The Port Washington Lions Club is in its 51st year of service to Port Washington and other communities.

THIENSVILLE MEQUON LIONS CLUB – On Monday, January 23rd, the Thiensville Mequon Lions Club held its annual holiday party. That night, after much praise from his sponsor Jim Doornek, Matt Andryauskus was installed as a new member. Matt is a long time friend and volunteered at many club fundraisers as well as assisting with the training of Leader Dogs for the Blind. That same night, two of our long time members were awarded the coveted Melvin Jones Award for extraordinary humanitarian service to the community. This year’s recipients were members Kevin Luedtke and club president, Donald Schmidt.

Award winners image left to right are: Randy Radiske, Kevin Luedtke, Randy Zachow, and Donald Schmidt.

New member image left to right are: Greg Kickbush, Jim Doornek and Matt Andryauskus.

Diane Lechner | 27a2editor@gmail.com | 920-210-8691

PHOTO BY SAM ARNDT, OZAUKEE PRESS

For over three decades, Lions Clubs around the globe have been sponsoring a very special art contest in schools and youth groups. Creating Peace Posters gives children everywhere the chance to express their visions of peace and inspire the world through art and creativity. The theme for the 2022-23 Lions International Peace Poster Contest was “Lead with Compassion.” Each student was awarded a cash prize from the Fredonia Lions. The Fredonia Lions thank Art Instructor Nathan Kilp for organizing, instructing and coordinating the International Lions Peace Poster contest at Northern Ozaukee Middle School. Posters entered in 2022 were prominently displayed in the Ozaukee High School Fine Arts Lobby during December. The First Place poster will be entered in the Wisconsin Lions District 27A2 Contest. Pictured (l to r): First Place - Saaba Annor 6th grade. Lion Kathy Shoemaker, Second Place Sarah Lein 8th grade. Art Instructor Nathan Kilps, Third Place - Audrey Drollinger 7th grade.

FREDONIA LIONS CLUB – Northern Ozaukee School District Superintendent Dave Karrels, Building and Grounds Supervisor Jason Caswell, Lions Chris Jante and Frank Peterson with the new AED that the Fredonia Lions donated to the NOSD. Photo by Sam Arendt-Ozaukee Press.

NEWBURG LIONS CLUB – The Club making plans for the upcoming year.

FROM THE 27-A2 DISTRICT GOVERNOR

BERT FREEMAN

R IST ICT D

lionsubway206@gmail.com 608-733-1801

Fredonia Lions Club 2022 Peace Poster Contest Winners

EDITOR:

VERNO

“The starting place for your greatness is desire. The desire to succeed, to serve others, to keep on going no matter what...” The need for new members has never been greater. This is the time to reach out to friends, family member, or community leader. In order to cultivate new members, we need to be patient, suggest the potential new member attend a club meeting, join a service project, and show the value of being a Lion. It is called “Plant the Seed” We already have all the tools in the shed, put them to good use and reap a bountiful harvest of new members. All it takes is to ask. DGE Brenda Rumppe is forming her 2023-24 District Cabinet and is always on the lookout for new and exciting district leaders to join her team. Barring something unforeseen, your 2023-24 District Leaders will be Allenton Lions, Brenda Rumppe as your incoming District Governor, Columbus Lions, Deb Freeman as first Vice District Governor, and your 2nd Vice District Governor, Grafton Lions, Slava Krol. I am excited for the future of our district, as our district leadership pipeline has many qualified leaders and I expect great things from our Governor Team and District Cabinet. On another subject… At the January 21st meeting of the Council of Governors, a resolution was unanimously approved for a vote to decide the future of the paper copy of the Wisconsin Lions Newspaper at this years state convention, May 11-13 in Stevens Point. Only those attending will be eligible to decide on the future of our state’s bi-monthly paper. How did we get to this point? Rising paper costs, manufacturing costs, and postal increases for our periodical. So make sure you attend, make your voice heard and go to the ballot box and vote. PLEASE VOTE Lastly, ACRONYMS. At our Council of Governors meeting, I notice a couple of 27A2 district leaders viewing via zoom. The next day, after the COG meeting (Council of Governors) I called and ask their thoughts on the meeting and what was discussed. The reply, it was great, EXCEPT, we could not follow everything because many times the speaker would use acronyms and we got lost as to who they were talking about. Lesson learned. When discussing Lions, consider who you are talking to and their level of Lions knowledge. Especially when recruiting new members or seeking to fill the district leadership pipeline. “I meant what I said, and said what I meant”

ALLENTON LIONS CLUB – Members of the Club and friends, processing deer hides for the Wisconsin Lions Foundation.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 13

27-B1 NEWS

CHILTON LIONS CLUB – For several years, the Club has matched the funds raised by Chilton Middle School students to purchase Christmas gifts for teenagers in the community. This year, the students broke a record raising $4,000 that was matched by the Chilton Lions Club. The students also raised money through a Go Fund Me drive to accumulate nearly $10,000. The students shop for the gifts as well. Shown presenting the $4,000 matching donation to middle school student council representatives is Chilton Lions President Rick Jaeckels.

CHILTON LIONS CLUB – The Club supported the 39th Thanksgiving Day Express. Members and volunteers from the community gathered at the Chilton Eagles Club to prepare and distribute 437 bountiful meals on Thanksgiving Day morning to individuals and families in Calumet County and surrounding areas. Many members from the community donated pumpkin pies, and the Chilton Lions Club coordinated the hot and cold meal packaging. The area local fire departments did meal deliveries. The group’s motto is “A Warm Meal and a Kind Word.”

ST PETER LIONS CLUB – The Club will be holding a BRAT FRY on May 6, 2023 at W3727 Hwy WH, Malone, WI. The picture is from the 2022 Brat Fry.

Congratulations to the newly elected Lions: PDG Fred Gebhart, WLF Director; Roxanne Wendt, Second Vice District Governor Elect; Greg Kubichka, District Governor Elect; Dave Brinkman, District Governor; Dave Holschbach, First Vice District Governor Elect; PDG Jerry Post, Cabinet Treasurer. Thank you for your service!

HOWARDS GROVE LIONS CLUB – In December 2022, members filled sand pails for the residents of Howards Grove. The pails are distributed free of charge at two banks, one credit union and the Piggly Wiggly in Howards Grove. The local Boy Scout troop helped out with this annual project.

14 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

wilionsb1.org

NEW HOLSTEIN LEOS CLUB – The Husky Hands & Heart Leos Club delivered toys to the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin-Neenah. The toys were delivered in early December for distribution to pediatric hospital patients at Christmas.

KIEL LIONS CLUB – Club members built a handicap ramp for a local resident. They had the help of the Kiel High School shop class to cut the raw lumber to size for fabrication.

Maryn Van Zon from the Rosendale-Brandon Intermediate School was chosen as the Multiple District Peace Poster winner. Along with a district check, she also received a check from the State Lions for $100. Her Peace Poster was sent to Oak Brook, IL for the international competition.

ATTENTION: From 27B1 District Convention Committee

November 10 & 11, 2023 Change in Venue for 27B1 Convention: New location Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 625 W. Rolling Meadows Dr., Fond du Lac • Watch for convention packets and more details coming soon. • Early questions, contact Convention Committee or Convention Chair PDG Tom Wendt.

Send your District Calendar additions to lionsof27b1@gmail.com

MISHICOT LIONS CLUB – Myrna Kraynik shared her story about being a Leader Dog trainer with the Club. She is currently training her 12th leader dog Elsie. She receives the dogs as puppies and it takes 14 months to properly train a dog. Myrna volunteers her time as a trainer and pays for Elsie’s food, vet bills, and additional expenses.

Mishicot Lion Second Vice District Governor Dave Holschbach out serving the community.

Terry Erbstoesser | terryerbstoesser@gmail.com | 920-376-3505

WINNEBAGO EAST SHORE LIONS CLUB – On January 20th, members helped out community member Dwight Sattler of Pipe by building and installing a ramp in his garage. Pictured (l to r): Dwight, and WESL members Val Thome, Dick Schroeder, Dick Fuhrmann, Gary Roehrig, Paul Merten, Joe Bord, and Tony Pauly. SHERWOOD LIONS CLUB – District Governor Dave Brinkman had the honor of inducting five new members into the Club. They are from left to right Lions Ted Stumpf, Rodger Kaser, Cheryl Rietveld, Dan Meyerhofer, and Nick Schmieder.

MARIBEL LIONS CLUB – A successful 2022 was completed with their annual Christmas Party December 20th. Pictured: President Kevin Habeck and wife Mistine, along with VDG Dave Holsbach.

SHEBOYGAN NOON LIONS CLUB – The Club participated in the Salvation Army’s Adopt a Family Christmas project. On the right is Jane Marotz from the Salvation Army and on the left is Pam Oehldrich of the Sheboygan Noon Lions Club.

FROM THE 27-B1 DISTRICT GOVERNOR

DAVE BRINKMAN

R IST ICT D

brinkdav@yahoo.com 920-344-2585

VAN DYNE LIONS CLUB – The annual Christmas Party was held for club members and spouses. They were entertained by comedian Lee Lycan but the highlight of the evening was when the “Van Dyne Sisters” came out and sang a couple of songs from the movie Sister Act. Pictured are the “Van Dyne Sisters” with PDG Gary Silah, PDG Fred Gebhart, 1st vice DG Dave Holschbach, PDG Thomas Wendt.

EDITOR:

VERNO

?? Hello, Lions of District 27 B1! I hope you had a chance to attend your zone meetings to listen to some ideas about member retention and how to recruit new members. Watch for the results of the District Membership Challenge Award at the end of March. At the District Cabinet meeting at the end of January, I put out that I would come to your club and induct any new members you bring into your club, so give me a call or email me at the above contact information if you would like me to do it. The next couple of months you should be working on the nominations and elections for your club officers for the 2023-2024 year. Lions International is going to put in place a new MyLCI/My Lion so it is extremely important to get your new club officers into MyLCI as soon as possible. The new system is supposed to be active sometime in July 2023. As of this printing, we don’t have a schedule yet for training on the new system. Please be sure to update your club member’s email addresses and phone numbers because it will be your email address that’s the key to getting into the new system. We have started the process of preparing to conduct club officer workshops sometime starting in May. I have heard some club officers say that they don’t need the training, but I can assure you that even if you have been a club secretary for 30 years, you will learn something new. You do not need to be a club officer to attend. Any Lion showing a desire to learn something new should sign up. We will provide lunch, and you can get some mileage reimbursement. Finally, there are still several months to go to qualify for a Club Excellence Award. Meeting the criteria allows the club to get a distinctive patch for your club banner and the club president gets a pin. Nice to put that feather in your cap. Look for more information from the District. If you would like me to install your 2023-2024 club officers, please let me know so I can get your club scheduled. Thanks for all you do! WAYMORR LIONS CLUB – On Saturday, April 8th, the Club will hold their annual free CHILDREN’S EASTER EGG HUNT at Brown County WayMorr Park. Registration starts at 9AM. It is free to children 10 years old and younger. Children are asked to bring their own baskets/pails/bags to collect plastic eggs. They will also receive a treat bag. Pictured from last year’s event: Lion Marjorie Fritsch and Lion Lori McGuire.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 15

27-B2 NEWS

HOWARD-SUAMICO, BELLEVUE AND ASHWAUBENON LIONS CLUBS – Three local Lions Clubs worked together this fall to complete a ramp project in Bellevue. Pictured are Lions Art Becker, Bob Taicher, Dale Jensen, Dan Deruyter, Jerry De Beck, Bob Kropp, Kevin Sellen, Ron Schmidt and John Myers.

STURGEON BAY LIONS CLUB – The "Dinner with Santa" event on December 3rd at Corpus Christi Social Hall. Children frosted cookies and decorated their own stocking plus face painting, tattoos, a holiday cornhole game, all kinds of crafts, writing a letter to Santa and a visit with Santa himself. The High School Band entertained around 200 people.

MARINETTE LIONS CLUB – $7,500 was donated to the all volunteer Emergency Rescue Squad, Inc. as part of their 75th anniversary on October 2. Presenting the check are Lions Mike Martin and Al Oscarson, while accepting the check is Greg Loll of the Emergency Rescue Squad.

PESHTIGO LIONS CLUB – A Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry was held on January 19th in Menominee at the YMCA. Peshtigo Lions were there to lend a hand. Food was distributed via a drive-through process and people started lining up at 6am for the food. A mobile food pantry contains 15,000 pounds of food sent on a truck in order to provide food for 300 households in need, on a first-come, firstserved basis. Due to inclement weather, the number of families present to receive food was less than anticipated, resulting in leftover food. The leftover food was donated to the Peshtigo Food Pantry, St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry, and the Salvation Army. Pictured are Lions Tom Gryzwa, Rhonda McClain, Dale Edlbeck, Ty Doemel, Terry Gardon, Paul McClain. Second row: Lions Steve Peterich and Major Joshua Stansbury. Kneeling in the front row is Salvation Army volunteer King Chris.

MARINETTE LIONS CLUB – On October 4, Al Oscarson received special recognition for 50 years of service with the Marinette Lions Club. Next to Al is Mike Martin, who also recently celebrated 50 years of Lionism. Combined, these two Lions have more than a century of service among them.

16 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

REGIONAL LIONS LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE – Three (3) Lions from 27-B2 attended and completed the Regional Lions Leadership Institute at Lions Camp the weekend of January 13-15. A total of 19 Lions from around the state attended this important training. Pictured are Mike Milbach, Grand Chute Lions, Marcia Connery, Bellevue Lions and Theresa and Stewart Fett, Sturgeon Bay Lions.

WABENO LIONS CLUB – Lion Carla VanCamp presented a $1,000 check to the Christian Food Pantry, and Lion Chuck Enders presented a $1,000 check to the Newcap Food Pantry.

STURGEON BAY LIONS CLUB – Members, their kids and one dog braved the cold to walk alongside the club float and participate in the Sturgeon Bay Holiday Parade on November 19th. Pictured are Stewart Fett, Steve Asher, Mark Dufeck, Steve Heinz, Chad Schmelzer, our Lion, Kari Hougaard, Courtney Hougaard, Ashley Hougaard, Don Ziegelbauer, Rick Wiesner and his dog Willow. Photo by Theresa Fett.

MARINETTE LIONS CLUB – Treasurer Kent Kostelecky presented a check for $500 to Stephanie Mitchell Edge, Chairperson of Shop with a Cop. The program gives children the chance to bring presents home for Christmas and have a positive interaction with a law enforcement officer.

NIAGARA LIONS CLUB – A $1,000 donation was presented to Karen’s Pantry to help families in need in the Niagara area. Pictured are Lions Director Steve McMillan, Karen’s Pantry Director Teresa DePas, Lions Treasurer Dan Decker, and Lions President Glenn Lantagne. Photo by Michelle Garrett.

EDITOR:

Stephanie Schlag | 27b2pr@gmail.com | 920-217-8554 FROM THE 27-B2 DISTRICT GOVERNOR

JOHN REIL

CROOKED LAKE LIONS CLUB – The Volunteer Fire Dept received a grant from the DNR to purchase a UTV that can be used for wildland fires. The Grindle Lake Association donated $1,275; the Crooked Lake/Mountain Lions Club donated $1,000 and the Crooked Lake Ladies Auxiliary donated $1,000. Pictured are Fireman Cadet Jerry Milquet, Captain Dave Voss, Jerry Yaedtke representing the Lake Association, Assistant Fire Chief Jamie Tilkens, Jim Zittlow representing the Lions Club, Cassie Zittlow representing the Ladies Auxiliary and Fire Chief Jon Kleuskens.

OCONTO FALLS LIONESS LIONS CLUB – President, Stephanie Holman presented a check to provide meals to those in need to the Director of Nurse's Nook, Emily Macha. The Club also made a $1,250 donation to Abrams Spotlight Productions, Inc. (ASPI), a local theater in need of repairs. Pictured are President, Stephanie Holman and ASPI rep, Bill Koehne.

DOOR COUNTY LIONS CLUBS – The Door County Lions Clubs from Egg Harbor, Forestville-Maplewood, Brussels and Sturgeon Bay assisted with vision screenings in ten Door County schools this year, screening approximately 2100 students. Referrals to seek further testing with an optometrist were made for 149 students. Three Egg Harbor Lions Club members: Duane Bavlnka, Claire Murphy, and James Sanden and five Sturgeon Bay Lion Club members: Don Ziegelbauer, Rob Herland, Stewart Fett, Theresa Fett and Steve Heinz participated in vision screening at TJ Walker Middle School and Sturgeon Bay High School where the club members tested 220 students.

WABENO LIONS CLUB – On Saturday, December 17th, a festive group of 17 warmly dressed Lions climbed aboard a decorated “people hauler” driven by Lion Paul Ehlinger and braved the cold to entertain the citizens of Wabeno with Christmas carols. Santa and the Lions handed out 50 gift bags of candy and cookies along the way. The chilly carolers warmed up and enjoyed pizza at the Wildcat Den. Both a wonderful time and excellent companionship were enjoyed by all. It was definitely, “A Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

R IST ICT D

lionjohnr27b2@gmail.com 920-759-1388

VERNO

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for all of the hard work you have been doing over these past few months. I am just over the halfway point of my Governorship, and it has been an amazing experience and that is all because of you. I will be attending the International Convention in Boston in July and that is where my term as your Governor will sadly come to an end. With all of this said, I still want to visit your club and meet all your members, so PLEASE invite me to visit your club or even one of your service projects. My contact information is at the top of this article. I also would like to inform everyone that the State Convention is being held in Stevens Point on May 11th – 13th @ the Holiday Inn & Convention Center. Check out the website for more information. I put out a membership challenge to all clubs and this is what that challenge is. The club that brings in the most new members over the course of my year as Governor from July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023, will receive a cookout for your club members. I will supply all the food and do all the cooking. This will be based on a percentage scale taken from my last Health Assessment report that I will receive from Lions International. So, do your best to grow your club and bring in new members. The new website, “Lion Portal” is do to be released in the July time frame. Club Secretaries, please review your club members contact information is up to date before the transition happens. Please get your new Officers nominated, elected, and entered before the transition as well. There is an Officer Workshop coming up on May 24th at the Clintonville Christus Lutheran Church – 120 N Main St. from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm. You do not have to be an officer to go to the workshop, any club member that wants to pursue a leadership position in their club can go. I strongly advise all current and incoming officers to attend this workshop. I guarantee it will be time well spent. Please sign up for this workshop. If you want to attend this workshop, contact PCC Geri Schlender – gss@frontiernet.net. Be thinking about the Club Excellence Award for your club and fill out an application and send it to me. You have time to do this so don’t pass up the chance to receive this recognition for your club. “There’s Power in Our Service”

BRUSSELS LIONS CLUB – The Club held their first ever Classroom Cash program for teachers at the Southern Door Schools. Teachers were asked to fill out an application to answer the question “What would you do with $200 to benefit your classroom or students”, and “How many people would it benefit?” Four lucky winners were surprised with $200 checks in front of their students. We hope to expand the program to present even more grants next year.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 17

27-C1 NEWS

EDGAR LIONS CLUB – Joe Heil, an active businessman and strong supporter of events in the Edgar Community, is presented with the 2022 Edgar Citizen of the Year plaque from Lions president Cathy Schueller. Joe is Lieutenant of the Edgar Volunteer EMT/Fire Dept and also a past president and member of the Wisconsin Ginseng Board, Marathon County Farm Bureau, Wausau Area Chamber of Commerce and American Herbal Products Association. He is in the Alumni FFA and has hosted their June Dairy Breakfast. He recently retired after 25 years as a WIAA State wrestling official and rules interpreter. Joe was previously selected for the Edgar High School Alumni Hall of Fame.

NEILLSVILLE LIONS CLUB – Thanks to the Backaus Family for providing three generations to Lionism. Pictured are Eric, Richard and Bryce Backaus. Your support of Lions projects and programs and improvements for the Neillsville community is greatly appreciated.

ABBOTSFORD LIONS CLUB – Abbotsford High School senior Adriana Rivera has been named the Abbotsford Lions Club Student of the Quarter for the second quarter of the 2022-23 school year.

e-district.org/sites/27c1

EASTON WHITE CREEK LIONS CLUB – The Club would like to thank everyone that came and helped put the Christmas baskets together. Each year they put together 50 boxes with a ham and fruit and miscellaneous items and deliver them to the elderly in our area. They really appreciate this gesture and members love doing it. Thank you to all that support us so we can do these amazing things!

DORCHESTER LIONS CLUB – Clayton Blasel is the scholarship winner. Pictured: Lion Richard Bartnik, Clayton Blasel, Lion Sheala Pinter.

BERLIN-HAMBURG TOWNSHIP & AREA LIONS CLUB – Chevron Award 15 years of Service was presented to Lion Roger Nofsinger.

DORCHESTER LIONS CLUB – The Club’s newest member, Mary Kunze! Pictured: DG Phil Hollis, Lion Mary Kunze, Lion Sheala Pinter.

BERLIN-HAMBURG TOWNSHIP & AREA LIONS CLUB – Lion Bonnie Lange received the Lion of the Year Award.

18 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

RIB MOUNTAIN LIONS CLUB – The Club was represented at the State Lions Bonspiel in Medford. There were 30 teams participating. Mia and Jerry Husnick, Rhonda Jensen and Sheryl Babl did not bring home a trophy, but they had fun competing. This is Elias and he’s from Germany. He will be spending a few weeks with our family this summer (arrive the end of July and depart about August 23). This will be our 4th summer hosting through the Lions Youth Exchange program. Lions Youth Exchange also helps American youth, ages 16-22, with trips abroad. Please contact Sheryl Babl for more information at 715-581-3082, or sheryelizabethz@gmail.com

Patty Hollis | c1lionnews@gmail.com | 715-460-4832

WISCONSIN RAPIDS LIONESS/ LIONS CLUB – In the picture is Lioness Vicki Lohr and Lion John Slattery. The Club has been doing vision screening since September of 2022 through January 25th and more schools are scheduled. They have screened 1,979 students, 199 referrals (10% of total screened) so 1,780 passed. The number of volunteers is nine Lioness, seven Lions and two volunteers. 28 hours of screening. It is good to be back in the schools. WISCONSIN RAPIDS LIONESS/ LIONS CLUB – Ten tie blankets were made to donate for WRPS Caring Closet. Caring Closet helps families in need. The Lions also helped in tying. Natalie Leroy in charge of Caring Closet is in picture with Lioness Mari Austin, Lioness Vicki Lohr, and Lioness Sharon Panzer were present for donation. The Club had fun making these beautiful blankets for children for a warm cozy feeling of some comfort! WISCONSIN RAPIDS LIONESS/LIONS CLUB – Lion Kandis and LD TimTam came to visit our club. What an amazing story! If you want her to come to your club and give a presentation about her path to getting a leader dog, call, cell- 608-403-2236. PORT EDWARDS LIONS CLUB – The Club welcomed a new member Dwayne Malcolm at a recent meeting. Pictured is District Governor Phil Hollis leading the swearingin ceremony for Lion Dwayne. Taking part is Lion Dwayne’s sponsor, Lion Max Ayres.

FROM THE 27-C1 DISTRICT GOVERNOR

PHILLIP HOLLIS

R IST ICT D

lionphilhollis@gmail.com 715-460-4831

ROCHE A CRI LIONS CLUB – “Valentines for Veterans”. Thanks to Geneva, Lions Joyce, Nancy, Sue, Bonny and Cheri who signed 120 cards for this service project. The cards go to three different Veterans Homes. With gratitude from Roche A Cri Lions.

EDITOR:

VERNO

Hello Lions, This is the time that we should be thinking about our fundraising and service projects that we, as Lions, want to do in the spring and summer. Some clubs have traditional projects they do every year. These are very successful. Now would be a time to also come up with a new one. Pull in your club’s new members or members that usually are quiet and reserved. Ask them for ideas. When we try new things, it can help refill our tank, to remind us why we are Lions. Go out to the community. Find out what is needed and how your club can help. Make your clubs visible to the community, show them the value that the Lions can bring to them. Being a Lion in your community means that you are a Leader With A Heart. When you lead with a heart, you can’t go wrong. As community members see what your club is doing and the services your club provides, you will find that more people will want to join you. They will want to be part of something that is bigger than themselves. As Lions, we have many opportunities to give away the profits we make at fundraisers. We have The Wisconsin Lions Foundation (WLF), Leader Dog, Eye Sight, Lions Club International Foundation(LCIF), and many others. One thing to know is that when your club donates to these causes, 100 percent goes to grants and to the programs your club specifies. Recently the earthquake in Turkey triggered a 200,000-dollar overnight LCIF grant to help with the recovery efforts. Many towns right here in Wisconsin have received disaster grants. Wisconsin has received more money than it has donated. We, as Lions, have always had the heart to serve and give to community projects that need the funds. I am proud to be a Lion. The joy I get from serving next to all of you in service projects and fundraisers always refills my tank. Please contact me with fundraisers, service projects, and club visits you would like me to attend. LionPhilHollis@gmail.com or 715-460-4831.

SAVE THE DATE! Port Edwards Lions Club Pancake Brunch

COLBY LIONS CLUB – Club Secretary John Feiten presents a check in the amount of $200 to Donna Ehlen to help support the House of Mercy in Loyal.

March 12th, 8am - 12pm Port Edwards High School Cafeteria • All you can eat! Buttermilk, cranberry, and chocolate chip pancakes. Scrambled eggs, sausage, apple sauce, and beverages. • Adults - $8.00 Children - 3yrs-10yrs $5.00

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 19

27-C2 NEWS

e-district.org/sites/27c2

PHELPS LAND O’LAKES LIONS CLUB – $500 was recently donated to the Warm the Children Program. Pictured are (l to r): Warm the Children Program representative Chris Boone, Lion Rollie Alger, Lion Steve Chandler, and Lion Brian Blank.

PHELPS LAND O’LAKES LIONS CLUB – The Club recently donated $2,000 to the Headwaters Food Pantry in Land O’Lakes. Pictured are (l to r): President of the food pantry Paul Schefell, Lion Rollie Alger; Lion Steve Chandler; and Lion Brian Blank.

PHELPS LAND O’LAKES LIONS CLUB – $1,000 was recently donated to the FORK program (Feed Our Rural Kids). Pictured are (l to r): Lion Rollie Alger, FORK representative Perry Pokrandt, Lion Steve Chandler; and Lion Brian Blank.

IRON RIVER LIONS CLUB – Six new members were welcomed at the December 2022 meeting. New members, pictured are (l to r): Nancy Sauer, Terri Hollingsworth, Warren Beede, Jaydee Beede, Rosemary Dreessen, and David Ciembronowicz.

BOULDER JUNCTION LIONS CLUB – A generous donation of $2,000 was given to the Boulder Junction Public Library for the purchase of new materials for the visually challenged. The money will be used to purchase large print books, which help patrons with visual impairment read books without any adaptive technology. These materials are quite expensive for the library, making it hard to afford to purchase enough to keep up with patron demand within the current operating budget. The Lions Club donation will allow the library to expand this collection to satisfy more library patrons and fulfill a need in our community. Pictured are (l to r): Library Board President Ellen Murphy Blank, Lions President Wendi Neupert, and Library Director Cherie Sanderson.

WINCHESTER LIONS CLUB – President Nancy Johnson (left) and Lions Board members Ed and Jean Sattersten (middle) present a check for $1,500 to Town of Winchester Supervisor Jeff Whitney (right). The funds will be used for landscaping at the town hall and holiday lights on the trees near the town garage.

20 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

Cherie Sanderson | sanderson.cherie@gmail.com | 715-892-0761

Members present $500 to Lakeland Union High School student and band member, Colin Tibbits, and his mom, Jessica Volinek.

Members present $500 to Lakeland Union High School student and band member, Riley Giebudowski, and her mom, Shyla Belzer.

FROM THE 27-C2 DISTRICT GOVERNOR

BOB BERTCH

R IST ICT D

bobbertch22@gmail.com 715-892-2366

MANITOWISH WATERS LIONS CLUB – A donation of $500 each was made to three Lakeland Union High School students. For the past four years, eight area high schools have been raising money toward the goal of $200,000 to send 400 band members to march in the annual Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California which took place on January 2nd. The band played “Beautiful Wisconsin” which was arranged by Mike Leckrone, the retired director of the UW Marching Band.

EDITOR:

VERNO

The New Year has begun, and we are excited to be working hard with the Boulder Junction Lions Club which is the host club for our upcoming convention on April 14-15, 2023. Our convention promises to be one of the best with vision screening certification Friday afternoon, live entertainment on Friday night (come dressed as fisherman as we CAST LINES FOR LIONS), great food and fun. Saturday is lined up with great seminars to include Strides Walk, Service of Remembrance, Servant Leadership, Leader Dog, Lions Camp, Lions Training Workshop, Wisconsin State Gambling, Eye Bank, LCIF Presentation, and a District Service project. PID Bob Block will be our speaker at lunch and dinner as we enjoy some great food from the Lake of the Torches Resort and Casino. The hotel has the rooms blocked for us for $80 a night. The rooms can be booked anytime but make sure you mention our Lions Block of rooms. Call 715-588-7070 to reserve. The WLF Eyeglass trailer will there so bring your glasses, ink cartridges, cell phone, etc. Plus, the Lions Mission truck for the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation will also be there for usable household items, clothing, boots, gloves, and baby clothes. Please come and enjoy the convention. If you have questions, please give me a call at 715-892-2366. I sent out a membership challenge for clubs to add at least two positive members to their club before June 30, 2023. So far, several clubs have accepted the challenge and have added members. I hope all of our clubs can take the challenge and add members for this year to help our clubs grow. Let’s Make 2023 the best year ever for our District. TOGETHER WE CAN…TOGETHER WE WILL!

Members present $500 to Lakeland Union High School student and band member, Kelly Lobermeier, and her mom, Lisa Lobermeier. SOUTH SHORE LIONS CLUB – $500 was donated to the Memorial Medical Center Cardiac Rehab in Ashland, Wisconsin. The donation goes into a Benevolent Fund to help others to get Cardiac Rehab sessions due to expenses to get to and from the facility. Pictured are (l to r): Cardiac Rehab RN Dani Tutor, Lion Barb Rebak, and Cardiac Rehab RN Lief Wallin.

ST. GERMAIN NORTHWOODS LIONS CLUB – partnered with Trees for Tomorrow to bring a Holiday Wreath Clinic to Saint Germain in November as a community service project. They offered the program to anyone that wanted to make their own Holiday wreath. They had another community service project in December when they partnered with the Parks and Recreation Department for a Breakfast with Santa. The Lions helped the children write letters to Santa. Then they answered the letters and mailed the reply to the children from Santa.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 21

27-D1 NEWS

AVOCA-BLUE RIVER-MUSCODA LIONS CLUB – The Club sponsored an eye screening event for the local Riverdale School students. The Club covered the elementary grades along with the 7th and 8th grades. The Club was aided by the Dodgeville Lions who supplied the expertise and the scanner itself. Plans are to do a fall screening so if a student needs glasses they can get them at the start of the school year. We continue to follow the mission of “Knights of the Blind” set forth by Lions International and Helen Keller in 1925 by serving our communities. Pictured are Lions Mike and Carolyn Tiber screening a student.

LAKE WISCONSIN LIONS CLUB – The 32nd Annual Eskimo Open—“Golf on the Ice” fundraiser was so much fun!! In 2022, Club members were distributing food, doing children’s eye screenings and had several Red Cross blood drives. Fun was also had by all at the Halloween fun day with kids with our very own “Lion” Mike—he CAN roar!!

THE MCFARLAND LIONESS/LIONS CLUB – The Club held several successful fundraising events in November and December. Events included a record-breaking poinsettia sale, a bake sale at the McFarland High School local community vendor craft and gift sale and the Club’s annual holiday auction. Despite a three year absence due to the pandemic and a smaller club membership, the holiday auction came roaring back netting over $3200. (Fun fact: When the auction first started in 1978/79 it raised around $400!)

PORTAGE LIONS CLUB – In December, the Club donated two new child size bikes and helmets to the Portage Community Caring Tree.

lions27d1.org

MT HOREB LIONS CLUB – We delivered our 2nd Nex Trex bench today! Check it out in front of Miller's and Sons supermarket. AND..We are well on our way to bench #3. Seated is Lion Bob Faliveno

CROSS PLAINS LIONS CLUB – December brings to a close the month our club provides transport service for the Lions Eye Bank. This past month we completed 28 transports either bringing corneas to the Eye Bank to be evaluated or taking them to the next stop for delivery to a hospital for surgery! In this photo, Doc Esser and Mike Kalvin are making a pickup from the Eye Bank for delivery “We deliver today so someone can see tomorrow!”

MESSAGE FROM 27-D1 WLF DIRECTORS JOHN ELVEKROG AND JIM FLETCHER It's time to get information out to you about applications to the camp sessions this coming summer. Also, please share with your members about the need for staffing at the sessions. These are great opportunities for college students to gain valuable experiences. The camp director is planning to have full sessions this year so full staffing is essential to make that happen. Thank you for all you do for your communities.

22 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

EDITOR:

Bill Clausius | pr@lions27d1.org | 608-698-1683 FROM THE 27-D1 DISTRICT GOVERNOR

ALAN JOHNSON

R IST ICT D

aj542012@gmail.com 608-513-4984

VERNO

Hello, 27-D1 Lions. The Lions’ year is halfway over. “Sharing the service” is the theme. The first half has gone very fast. Thank you for your service. During the next six months we have many opportunities to share service at Club, zone, district convention, state convention, and officer training. Please consider holding officer elections by April 15. Reporting the changes quickly helps the GLT coordinator to invite them to training. There will be new changes to the Lions website. We hope to share with you some of those changes during that training. Please consider coming to the district convention. The Friday event will include a presentation by The Mustard Museum with music by Lion Chuck Wilson. We will be doing service projects in the afternoon on Saturday and have added a murder mystery to entertain you at the evening Banquet. Registration is on the website. The state Lions convention will be held May 11 to 13 in Stevens Point this year. Lions across the state will be asked to vote for a paperprinted Wisconsin Lion newspaper or a digital copy only. There is a meal being planned at the Lions Camp Thursday evening in Rosholt. Zone chairs will be scheduling meetings. Hope to see you at some of these meetings. I continue to schedule club visits. If you would like me to attend, please contact me at (aj452012@gmail.com) or 608-513-4984. TOGETHER WE CAN, TOGETHER WE WILL LAKE WISCONSIN LIONS CLUB – Fun and games happened at the 32nd Eskimo Open held by the Lake Wisconsin Lions Club Feb 18. This year's event on Lake Wisconsin brought about 1300 participants for the Club fundraiser. Players golfed a 9-hole course on the ice and snow, using a tennis ball to land in a hole in the ice. The event also featured raffles all during the day.

MONTICELLO LIONS CLUB – Scholarship checks were presented to seven graduating seniors of 2022 by Club President Troy Pettis and Lion Linn Lederman. They each received a $700 check. Recipients are Nicole Lehr, Katelyn Eyler, Hannah Clark, Ivan Guenther and Seth Culberson. Missing were Matthew Collins and Breanna McCoy.

MOUNT HOREB LIONS CLUB – PDG Bob Faliveno screens the eyes of a youngster as part of the club’s vision screening. The Lions screened 104 kids which resulted in four referrals.

LANCASTER LIONS CLUB – Lion Bev Doll (left) of the Lions pasty committee, presented a $1,000 check to Lori Marshall, president of the Grant Regional Health Center Auxiliary after making 2,042 pasties on January 21st.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 23

27-D2 NEWS

md27d2.org BARABOO LIONS CLUB – The project at the Ochsner Park Zoo was recently completed. Sven the Snowy Owl prefers cooler temperatures, so to give him a comfortable space on hot days members of the Lions built him a cooling house. Young volunteers Beau Levin and Wells Hoadley helped with unloading lumber for the project.

BANGOR LIONS CLUB – The Club held a Membership Drive January 22nd at Augie’s Bar in Bangor. There was a lot of information provided on the Bangor Lions activities, the Wisconsin Lions including the Wisconsin Lions Camp and the LCI. The five videos from the Wisconsin Lions website were played throughout the event. Five new members were signed up that day and there are five to ten more names of prospects that we will be following up with, so it was a very successful event. DE SOTO LIONS CLUB – VP Kay Campbell presented DG Tom Knudtson with a goodie bowl she made from her area!

CASHTON LIONS CLUB – The Club honored John Bertling and Mike Hansen with the The Melvin Jones Fellowship. District Governor Tom Knudtson presented the awards at ceremonies held at Badger Crossing on January 19th. Both are long-time Lions members and are very active in the Club and in their communities. CASHTON LIONS CLUB – Members are pleased to announce the near completion of the Cashton Park improvements. They landscaped with 57 trees and various plants and added two new signs, landscaping and lighting to the entrances to the park. Funding for the $30,000 was possible by fundraisers, individual and corporate contributions, as well as donations from the Village of Cashton and other Cashton area civic and community groups. CASHTON LIONS CLUB – The recipient of the 2022 Mary Jo Moore Scholarship is Haley Lutz. The scholarship is given annually to a Cashton High School senior pursuing higher education in the nursing profession.

BARABOO LIONS CLUB – We had another work day! This time it was applying sealer to the children’s climber at the Hope House domestic abuse shelter.

CASHTON & HILLSBORO LIONS CLUBS – Vision screenings were conducted October 26th at Sacred Heart and Cashton Public Schools. Members use Spot vision screening cameras. If irregularities are present the student is referred for further testing by professionals.

24 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

DE SOTO LIONS CLUB – Members threw out candy at the Worlds Fair in Retreat.

Joseph Ridge Lions Club – The Club recently held their annual Breakfast with Santa event. Front row: Mrs. Santa, Santa Claus, Dennis Zweber, Back row: Trudy Johnson, Mike Boland, Don Holker, John Slama, Linda Slama, Pat Dearth, Bob Chambers, Carol Crusan, Pete Prew, Wanda Everson, Mark Kramer. NORWALK LIONS CLUB – The Club, along with many area businesses, sold raffle tickets for a truck drawing at Morrie’s Auto in which all proceeds went back to local schools. Pictured is Brookwood superintendent Travis Anderson, and Lions Phil Haun, Glen Degenhardt, and Mike Karis with a check for $12,500.

EDITOR:

Loretta Ewelt | WILions27D2News@gmail.com | 608-269-3062 FROM THE 27-D2 DISTRICT GOVERNOR

TOM KNUDTSON

VIROQUA LIONS CLUB – The Club sold their “World Famous” Lion Burgers and Fries to a record number of patrons at the Vernon County fair this past mid-September than any previous Fair. The work at the stand is easily the single most important fundraising event of our year, clearing $13,000 most years. 100% of the money raised is generated into donations which are returned back into the local community and the WI Lions Foundation Activities. It’s hard work, but like most things in life, hard work often leads to greater feelings of satisfaction with a job well done. The Club gives thanks for so many workers and so many patrons.

VIROQUA LIONS CLUB – $1,500 was donated to the Viroqua McIntosh Memorial Library After School Program at the library. The money is being used to purchase snacks for the children. The program is free and runs five days a week and currently has 35 students in the program. At this time, this is the only after school program offered in Viroqua.

SAUK PRAIRIE LIONS CLUB – The November meeting welcomed a special guest, Adam Crowson of the Wisconsin Lions Eye Bank. He explained the 99 % success rate and process of eye cornea recovery and tissue transport to Madison. Lion Jim Frey was awarded a certificate for all his years of collecting glasses and transporting tissue.

KENDALL LIONS CLUB – Nov 4-5th, the Club hosted the Holiday Fair after a two year hiatus. Lions Cheryl Armstrong and Gail Schoenfeld organized the 31 vendors that made for a successful weekend with proceeds going for scholarships and community projects.

Pictured above: Lion Eric Schoenfeld, President Eric Frye, VP Cheryl Armstrong, and Secretary Gail Schoenfeld

VERNO

Good Afternoon Lions, I’d like to first of all say Congratulations to the Bangor Lions Club for having a successful Membership Drive, not only did they sign up 5 new members that day, they also had paperwork for an additional 5-8 possible new members that may join in the next month or two. I would like to encourage all of the Clubs in the District to hold a membership drive before the end of our Lionistic year is done. If you want to keep it simple, asking a handful of potential members to one of your Club meetings and letting them hear what your Club does, is super easy. If you want to grow your Club membership and make working your Service projects easier a Membership Drive with a little detail would take just a little more time to set up and run, but may get you more members. Simply create and invite at least a dozen potential new members to your Membership Drive. Serving them some food and providing refreshments, have some of your Lions on hand to talk about all the Service projects that you work on throughout the year. Show them where your Club donates your money, especially the local donations that show that the Community is heavily affected by the money you raise. A lot of our Lions also help local people who need wheelchair ramps and hold food drives to help those less fortunate people that need assistance, so have a poster board filled with pictures showing all the activities that the Lions help with. If you want to show materials on some of our other Lions projects you could contact our State Office and get some material to have on hand also. The main goal of this year is to have our second straight year in membership growth and holding these membership drives, not only help your Club, but also helps with attaining our District Goal.

SPARTA LIONS CLUB – Chairperson Deb Page and PDG Gwen Nelson, helped make Kristkindlmrkt a success! Lion Cynthia Lockington and volunteer Kelly Funk. manned the fryers for cheesecurds on a stick and schnitzel.

Lion Gail Schoenfeld headed a raffle for an autographed Packer football. She presented the winner, Jax Frye, with the football.

R IST ICT D

tknudt12@gmail.com 608-792-5700

SAUK PRAIRIE LIONS CLUB – President Leon Mindham presented a $2,500 check to John Lehan, Sauk Prairie Community Education and Recreation Director towards the new Culver Community Park.

REEDSBURG LIONS CLUB – This year’s Peace Poster winner, Angel DeCola from Sacred Heart School, with Secretary Mike Gargano.

VIROQUA LIONS CLUB – President Roger Hanson presents a $500 check to Ken Deaver, Chair of the Viroqua Toys for Tots for the 2022 campaign.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 25

27-E1 NEWS

district27e1.org

Seeley Lions React to the Needs of the Community

STANLEY LIONS CLUB – The Spirit of Christmas of Chippewa County purchase Christmas gifts for children in Chippewa County. The Stanley Lions donate $400 annually to them. In addition to the donation, the Stanley Lions pick the gifts up and bring them back to Stanley and distributed them to 66 families in which 130 kids got some presents for Christmas. In picture from left: Larry Ciokowiez, Dave Winkler, Duane Booth, Carl Edwardson, Dave Jankoski, Norm Christianson, John Hoel.

District Convention Our district convention is fast approaching. Each club should have received registration materials from District Secretary Ed Cerney. Things to remember for convention: Friday night is a time to socialize with fellow Lions. Dress in your favorite gardening clothes. There will be entertainment, refreshments, and games to play. Saturday we will hold our business meeting followed by a guest speaker on human trafficking. Our luncheon speaker will be John Kinville, a local historical author. There will be breakout sessions on Lions leadership, leader dog, where drugs can be hidden in plain sight, Wisconsin Eye Bank, and information about homeless vets. We will have our memorial service followed by our banquet with guest speaker ID TJ Tijerina and his wife Lion Juanita from San Antonio, Texas.

Reacting to the needs of the community, the Seeley Lions Club has contributed $1,000 to the Hayward Library Foundation. The contribution was part of $4,500 that the service organization has distributed to local community groups this month. Also receiving a $1,000 check was New Reflections Pathway to Hope, a support group for at-risk women based at Hayward Wesleyan Church. Seeley Lions continued to support the community by making $500.00 contributions to the Hayward Community Food Shelf, Spider Lake Church supporting Northwoods Food Shelf, Cable Area Resources in Emergencies, Northwoods Humane Society and Hayward Area Ski Trails Association. The group also gave $1,500 to support Wisconsin Lions district level needs for the Lions Camp, Eye Bank of WI and diabetes education efforts. “This is what it’s all about, folks,” said Pat O’Brien, Seeley Lions Club president. “Raising money so we can give it away and support the community.” The Seeley Lions largest fundraising event is the Seeley Pre-Fat Race, held annually in August. This year, they also held a Charity Pickleball Tournament at Silverthorn Park, sold refreshments at four American Birkebeiner events and the Chequamegon Mountain Bike Festival.

Registration - $15 (Leos - $7.50) $

26 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

Seeley Lions Club members Kerry Myhra (left) and Jane Mandli (far right) presented a check for $500 to Carole Byhre, volunteer coordinator of the Hayward Community Food Shelf.

Bean Timmerman (far left) of the Hayward Library Foundation accepted a $1,000 check from Seeley Lions Club member Tom Matthiae (far right). Other library board members present were Martha Zych, Betsy Stocker, Nina Gilberg, Corrine Bonicatto, and Tina Cronkite.

Friday Fish & Ham Buffet - $23

Saturday Lunch Pricing from Below

Saturday Banquet - $30 $

Total $

EDITOR:

Barb Dulmes | barb.dulmes@gmail.com | 715-289-5280 or 715-829-4090 FROM THE 27-E1 DISTRICT GOVERNOR

BRIAN DULMES

SPOONER TREGO LIONS CLUB – (Left) Lions Brandi Haupt and Donna Truddell presented $3,000 to the local Alzheimer’s Support group “Happy Day Club”. Receiving the check is activity director Sue Miller. (Right) Lions Lisa Woilet and Jennifer Corbin gather the prizes for their Bingo Party. The club also teamed with the Shell Lake Lions to work together on a Christmas project to support 105 families with 240 children. Food and gifts were distributed to the families. 800 deer hides were also sent to Rosholt to help support the Lions summer camp.

JIM FALLS LIONS CLUB – The Lions are working on replacing the trees that are located near the Old Abe Eagle in Jim Falls. Pictured are Lions Don Hauser, Larry Bradley, Lynn Koerner and Dan Wolf.

WANDEROOS AREA LIONS CLUB – The Wanderoos Area Lions have been busy. They collected deer hides for the camp. They also made up and delivered fruit baskets to our area needy. A crew was also seen cleaning up State Highway 65, Larry Behne, Chris Haines and (not pictured) Vern Warwick.

JIM FALLS & CADOTT LIONS CLUBS – Lions Larry Bradley and Kim Koerner prepare the deer hides for shipment. The Clubs collected 886 hides that were headed to the fur buyer.

R IST ICT D

bldulmes@gmail.com 715-829-1454

VERNO

As I write this, we are in the middle of an extreme cold snap, but when I think of the great things we do as Lions to help people it brings warmth to my heart. There are some of us who even cut firewood for people to heat their home with, and many of us provide hot meals for people from time to time. Whatever projects your club does to help people will bring warmth to someone’s heart. I am looking forward to our District 27-E1 convention coming up at the end of March. The convention committee has put together some great sessions with varying topics that will appeal to many. You can get more information about the convention under the events tab on our Website, district27e1.org. It is not too late to sign up and join us. One of the initiatives that we do as Lions to help people is to bring awareness about diabetes. There are so many people in the world that are on the verge of having diabetes and don’t know it. One way that we are trying to get the word out about pre diabetes is the coffee sleeves that are available from WLF. They have a QR code on them that will take you to a 60-Second Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test. This quick test will let you know what type of risk you have for Type 2 Diabetes. Knowing this early allows you to make some changes to help you avoid getting diabetes. Another thing you can get from WLF is a picture book entitled “YEAR ONE with TYPE ONE” which is a true story of a boy with Type 1 Diabetes. Your club can get 10 of these books through WLF and you can distribute them to local libraries so that people can know more about what a person goes through when they have Type 1 Diabetes. Those clubs that Barb and I have visited have heard this before, but it never hurts to get out the word. We all know people who have had cancer in their lives. Some of them are able to live normal lives after some treatments, some of them are limited in what they can do or eat after their battles with it, and some never recover at all. The children that get cancer are the hardest ones to understand and the most heart breaking to me. According to the Lions International website, 400,000 children worldwide are diagnosed with childhood cancer. LCIF has grants available for various projects and they partner with other organizations to get help for these children. To lean more go to Lionsclubs.org and search on childhood cancer. Hopefully through our efforts as Lions, we will help to find a cure to this devastating disease. Thank you for all you do as Lions and keep “Sowing Seeds of Volunteerism”

CLEAR LAKE LIONS CLUB – The Club delivered snacks of cheese, sausage and crackers to the residents of Willow Ridge Healthcare, Golden Age Manor and Amery Memory Care on January 11. Pictured are Lions Marv Sias, Gene Burns and Mary Mara.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 27

27-E2 NEWS

md27e2.org

The Car That Wouldn’t Sink! Since 1961 the Menomonie Lions Club has placed a Klunker on the ice of Lake Menomin as a fundraiser. Every year people guess what day the car will fall through the ice for cash prizes. The money raised helps support projects of the club. These projects consist of the Menomonie Lions Club Game Park, Lion Ted Wiehe Nature Trail, scholarships for Dunn County High School Seniors, Easter Egg Hunt, Santa Call-in, Lions Spirit of Christmas, numerous shelters and disability swings in local parks, as well as Vision Screenings in local schools. They also support free camps for Wisconsin residents who are blind, hearing impaired, diabetic, epileptic, or cognitively disabled. Last year the club used a racecar instead of the usual Klunker. But for the first time ever, the car didn’t sink! Who knew race cars float? This year extreme efforts are being made to ensure this time the race car sinks! The Menomonie Lions Club is the local branch of Lions International which comprises over 48,000 clubs and over 1.4 million members worldwide. The main causes of Lions International are Hunger, Environment, Vision, Diabetes, and Childhood Cancer. Lions clubs are a group of men and women who identify needs within the community and work together to fulfill those needs. The Lions are always looking for new members who epitomize their motto “We Serve.”

COLLECTOR’S CORNER A Closer Look at Convention Badges!

PRESCOTT LIONS CLUB – The Club has had their own Thanksgiving tradition for many years. They take the time to SERVE residents of an Assisted Living Facility a complete Thanksgiving Dinner with all the trimmings. 20 residents enjoyed not just the meal prepared for them but the friendship of the Lions who came to serve them. Prescott will tell you that COVID slowed them down with this tradition, but once through COVID we are back stronger than ever. WE Serve “Serving.”

BY LION REID MEYER, ELLSWORTH LIONS CLUB

A completist is one who wants to make a collection complete. Finding every item can be very challenging, requires persistence and patience. Having good topical knowledge is also critical – so one actually knows what to look for in order to achieve completeness! A great example is collecting Wisconsin Lions convention badges – these are awesome pieces of Lions history and great collectibles. State Convention badges go waaaaay back in time and District Convention badges can also be old, but this is where topical knowledge becomes very helpful. Wisconsin District 27 was formed in 1922-23 and existed as a single entity until 1936-37, which is when Districts A, B and C were formed; District D was added in 1938, followed by District E in 1949-50. Districts B1-B2 were formed in 1966-67, C1-C2 in 1968-69, A1-A2 in 1971-72, E1-E2 in 1979-80 and D1-D2 in 1980-81. See Doing Something For Someone Else: A History of the Wisconsin Lions, which does a great job visually depicting our Multiple District’s evolution. Pictured are two State Convention badges from the 8th and 9th Annual Conventions. With this topical information in mind, we now know that leaves 13 other badges to collect to complete the Wisconsin District 27 series! State Convention badges starting in 1937-38 would be considered Wisconsin Multiple District 27 badges. If you have any of these ooooold convention badges, please reach out to Pin Trader Lion Bruce Frei (at yogibearfrei@yahoo.com as he is documenting this collection) or email me at reidmeyer69@gmail.com – Happy Collecting!

28 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

TREMPEALEAU LIONS CLUB – Two Lions received Melvin Jones Awards at the meeting on November 14th. Pictured are: Treasurer Mark Greylak and Secretary Vern Jordan.

TREMPEALEAU LIONS CLUB – The Club has built handicap ramps for area residents free of charge for a number of years. The dedication in helping the community through the use of a ramp can make all the difference to residents and their being able to get out and about. Most of us can leave our homes safety and when we want to. Much like other missions of the Lions they are here to make a difference in serving others, making lives better. Gaining in education in areas Lions can make things happen. There may be residents in your community who need access to the outside world. You may not be able to do it free of charge. Maybe you seek donations from your businesses, or others. Maybe the resident can afford the ramp materials, but cannot build it. Ramps are another area Lions can make a difference.

EDITOR:

PDG Ronda Bierbrauer | chamaca@frontiernet.net | 612-636-5044 FROM THE 27-E2 DISTRICT GOVERNOR

MARCIA HAGEN

ROBERTS LIONS CLUB – Every year members team up with the Hammond Lions Club and the local snowmobile club, Hammond Snow Drifters, to make sure residents of their communities get a Thanksgiving dinner and a Christmas dinner. A full box of food consisting of canned veggies, canned fruit, peanut butter, carrots, potatoes, apples, pasta, pasta sauce, cereal, pie, cool whip, rolls, and topped off with a turkey or a ham for Christmas. At Christmas there are fruit baskets delivered also to those who are ill, have had a death in the family, or need to know we are thinking of them. Another wonderful example of clubs working together and with local organizations to “Serve.”

SOMERSET LIONS CLUB – The Club served up some wonderful frightful scares during their haunted Hayride. It was a beautiful evening for the month of October and perfect for a Haunted Hayride. Complete with hot drinks, fire pits, and food, the Lions brought in hundreds of people to take the ride. Although the hayride was to close at 9:00 pm the line told them that they would be there for a couple more hours to get everyone through the ride. Somerset Lions said it was one of their best years.

R IST ICT D

hagen.rjmk@gmail.com 715-896-0421

VERNO

As we are looking forward to warmer weather in the coming months we are also looking forward to setting some action plans up for our district. The Zone Chairs will be giving feedback soon and you can give your feedback at an exercise called SWOT analysis at our District Convention at the Lismore Hotel March 17-18 in Eau Claire. Along with the fun of convention we will also be planning for the future of the way that you want your district to operate. I encourage all my 27E2 LION friends to consider how each of you might participate at the officer level and at the district level. It is important to get new ideas, new fun projects, and new members. We will be experiencing some changes such as a small dues increase, a new and improved computer system (so get your officers entered and you members names and contact information double checked and up to date early). We will welcome these and other changes to move our Lions to serve even more as the largest service organization in the world. Our communities count on us to help and serve efficiently. Spring will be a time of renewal for our selves and for our clubs. I have a feeling the Spring will come in LIKE a LION! Thanks for all the work you do.

ROBERTS LIONS CLUB – Santa along with Mrs. Claus and Santa’s Trusty Elf arrived at the Roberts Park Building by Fire Truck to visit with the children On December 10th. Photos were taken with a fireplace and two wonderfully decorated Christmas trees to set the scene. There was Cocoa with A Cop, craft activities, make your own personalized ornament, and of course cookies. Santa’s visit is a yearly tradition for the Roberts Lions Club, serving over 100 children this year.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 29

In Memory / In Honor of…

WISCONSIN LIONS FOUNDATION DONATIONS

*Donation to Birch-Sturm Fund

MEMORIALS DEAN ARNDT The Callies Family PDG DEXTER BADINGER, JR. 27-A1 Past District Governors Organization Marlys Badinger Karina Derenne Eagle Lions Club Kristie Grulke David & Darlene Hempel Dawn Kloth Brenda Liermann Kathleen Werth ARTHUR BOSTWICK Mary Hans LUTHER DEAN CARR Kaukauna Lioness Lions Club RON CATTELAN Denmark Lions Club JORDAN CHADWICK David & Lori Reiman Miller BRUCE CLARK Richard Werner CHARLIE COUSHMAN Town of Texas Lions Club JOHN R. DAHLGREN Marie Sanborn AGGIE DANEN Dorchester Lions Club JOHN N. DICKSON Cross Plains Lions Club CC Tammy Rockenbach

ROY H. HOLZ Neenah Lions Club

PATRICIA J. VENCKUS Christopher Venckus

MORRIS SWED Princeton Lions Club

HUNCE JACOBY Janice Winters

BARB VOLKENING Roche-A-Cri Lions Club

BETTY JENSEN Mark Sirinek St. Croix Falls Lions Club

EUGENE WALLSCHLAEGER Mary & Mike Ladron Michael Wallschlaeger & Charlene Peterson Jeanne & Patrick Wallschlaeger

VIROQUA LIONS CLUB’S 75TH ANNIVERSARY Hillsboro Lions Club

STEVE KNAPP Peggy Knapp ARNOLD LUECHAU Mike & Linda Carter JOHN MILROY Watertown Lions Club ROBERT MONSON Darlington Lions Club SANDRA NELSON Dennis & Mary Dettmering EIGIL “IKE” PAGH Mercer Lions Club NORBERT “NORBIE” PERRONNE Mr. & Mrs. E.A. Mischo DONALD L. PETERSON Joan Peterson

MARLENE RAETHER Mark & Jayne Hintzmann

HERB SCHNEIDER Richard Karl

ROBERT “BOB” GEIGER Lomira Lions Club

CINDY SCHUMACHER Mark & Jayne Hintzmann Watertown Lions Club

CAROL HARDEL Terri & Jeff Kent*

HONORARIUMS

JOHN DAHLGREN Edith Olson Scott Strand

KAREN CHADWICK David & Lori Reiman Miller

BRAXTON FRAWLEY Rebecca Freeman

PDG LEWIS L. DILLON Lew Dillon Jr

RYAN GELLINGS Lois Staehling Joseph and Penelope Bloechl

LA CROSSE LIONS CLUB’S 100TH ANNIVERSARY PDG Dave & Sue Lee

DERRICK GEE Spring Green Lions Club

OSCAR GUELIG Winnebago East Shore Lions Club

MEMORIALS

TED WYSOCKI Mike & Rita Capriolo

GREGG POTTS Jerry & Judie Zais

JAMES RYAN Dennis & Mary Dettmering

CHARLES “CHUCK” GROSKOPF Okauchee Lions Club

MARK WORZALLA Bevent Lions Club

DG TOM KNUDTSON Seneca Lions Club

PDG DOUG FLEMING Richard & Peggy Daluge

JOHN GRANT Roche-A-Cri Lions Club

THEODORE “TED” E. WILCOX Bangor Lions Club

RON PIONTEK Denmark Lions Club

DAN RITGER Bob Klockow Harold & Gertrude Krebs

LEONARD GOETTL Tilden Lions Club

LARRY AND CHARRON LLOYD 60TH ANNIVERSARY Gail Henschel Alan and Ramona Erhardt Dean and Connie Born

DG BRIAN DULMES Chippewa Falls Lions Club Rice Lake Lions Club

DONALD “DON” ENGMANN Shari & William Buske Lomira Lions Club

LAURA GOEDEN Diane & Terry Tietyen

HONORARIUMS

GERALD WERNER Fenwood Lions Club

ARTHUR B. PETT Kathleen Pett

PID JERRY RADLINGER PCC Robert & Dianne Bayerl* Mike & Linda Carter Dorchester Lions Club Rita & Bill Mueller Bernie & Colene Stuttgen

CHUCK SCHUREN Gary & Cheryl Grolle Bryan & Geri Haase JUDY SCHULTE Oconomowoc Lions Club CARRIE SHAVER Juneau Lions Club EMMA SPICE Sarah & Daniel Larkin ROGER STEVENS William M. Urban

RALPH HENSEL Wendy Hartmann

THOMAS STEVENS John & Alice Jenson Walter & Mary Schar

DARREL HERMANS Jerry & Judie Zais

LEONARD VAN LANNEN Leonard Van Lannen Estate

WENDELL HILTON Keith Hilton

JAY VAN THIEL Mc Caslin Lions Club

30 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

LIONS EYE BANK DONATIONS

SARAH DAVIES HOGOBOOM Nancy Avery

LIONS DEER HIDE CREWS Stevens Point Noon Lions Club

RALPH KRUEGER Mark and Nancy Dupler James David Cathleen Sanders Andrew Grinwald Michael and Nancy Frawley David and Dawn Vedlhuizen Michael Williams Jim and Kim Wagner

PID Mark and Jayne Hintzmann Art and Sue Fasoli CC Tammy Rockenbach Sarah and Dan Patzer John and Mary Smilanich Jeff and Michelle Bauer Kelli Clark Wendy, Chris, Max and Spencer Fischer Jeff & Deb Goebler Steve & Kristi Jagler Mark and Dawn Kube Tom and Dawn McBride Meyer Family Jeanne and Tony Pagel Amy and Steve Raven Randy and Diane Strunz Lori, John, and Kellin Uttech John Wanke Dale and Nancy Bowgren Dr. John and Marilyn Bussa Bill and Colette Clifford Joel and Carol Edwards Evan and Andrea Fisher Joan and Dick Hinchcliffe Jo Hoeft Rose Hornickle Gayle and Carol Johnson Bob and Paula Maas Audrey Pagel Jan Smith Nell Winkler and Claude Held Jeff and Natalie Krause Bob and Jane Bender Sean and Cami Wright Maddison Wright and Andrew Derickson DR. THOMAS STEVENS Jonathan Chang PDG Harry and Linda Helwig

WAYS TO CONTRIBUTE Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) 630-203-3810 lionsclubs.org Melvin Jones Fellowship eligibility includes donations: • Area of Greatest Need • Measles Program • Diabetes • Disaster Relief • Sight Programs • In Honor/In Memory Wisconsin Lions Foundation (WLF) 715-677-4969 • wlf.info • Community Diabetics Educational Project • Hearing Aid Program • Adult & Children Vision-screening • Wisconsin Lions Camp • Wisconsin Lions Eye Glass Recycling Center WLF Gifts/Donations: • Friends and Honors Garden • Wall of Honor • Wish List • Lions License Plates

Lions Pride Endowment Fund 715-677-7000 lionspride.org Preserve, protect and provide for Lions Camp and all WLF statewide projects. Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin 877-233-2354 lebw.org/funding Passionate about restoring sight, eliminating curable blindness, and advocating for organ, eye, and tissue donation. Restoring Hope Transplant House 608-831-1726 restoringhope.org Non-profit home away from home for transplant families who are in search of a second chance at life through the miracle of transplantation at nearby UW Hospitals and the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison.

Wisconsin Lions Birch-Sturm 715-677-4969 birchstrum.org Wisconsin Lions Missions wislions.org/missions Used eyeglasses, donated fire trucks, ambulances and school buses, medical and school supplies such as hospital beds and school desks - distributed to needy schools, orphanages, and cities south of the border. Leader Dogs for the Blind Lions Recognition Programs 888-777-5332 leaderdog.org Empowering people who are blind or visually impaired with lifelong skills for safe and independent daily travel.

Congratulations! M E LV I N J O N E S BIRCH-STURM KNIGHT OF SIGHT R AY H E M P E L F E L L O W S

ANDREA YENTER Melvin Jones Rosholt (C1)

JOHN BERTLING Melvin Jones Cashton (D2)

MIKE HANSEN Melvin Jones Cashton (D2)

BERT FREEMAN Melvin Jones Columbus (A2)

KEVIN LUEDTKE Melvin Jones Thiensville Mequon (A2)

DONALD SCHMIDT Melvin Jones Thiensville Mequon (A2)

BARRY HOFECKER Melvin Jones Siren (E1)

MARK GREYLAK Melvin Jones Trempealeau (E2)

VERN JORDAN Melvin Jones Trempealeau (E2)

PRESIDENT ROBERT YARBROUGH PRESENTS KNIGHT OF SIGHT AND BIRCH STURM AWARDS TO OCONOMOWOC LIONS MEMBERS. (A2)

DIANE BLAHAUVIETZ Birch-Sturm Siren (E1)

JIM KUNDINGER Birch-Sturm Auburndale (C1)

BILL LINDBERG Birch -Sturm Siren (E1)

TED HANSEN Knight of Sight

WHO CAPTURES THE TRUE SENSE OF LIONISM?

VAL DWYER Knight of Sight

RANDY AND CHERI LUCK Birch-Sturm

SEPT. 21-23, 2023

Black River Falls Lion member Ole Olson is a true example of this. Ole has been a Lion for over 45 years, starting his Lions journey in Grove City, Minnesota. Eventually, he and his wife of 62 years, Judy, settled in the Black River Falls area near her family. Ole is now 85 years old, yet is very active in the Lions club and the community. He is on the Deer Hide committee, Sunshine/Recognition committee, and curling team. If he is not working for a fundraiser or project, he will bring his wife to the event to participate. Ole enjoys gardening and canning, selling his prize pickles and beets at the local farmer’s market twice a week in the summer time. The Lions motto is “We Serve” and that is exactly what Ole does, making a difference in our world every day!

THE ROW Reno, Nevada

3 RESORTS – ONE DESTINATION El Dorado • Silver Legacy • Circus Circus

Visit LionsForum.org for more information

MARCH / APRIL 2023 Wisconsin WisconsinLion 31

BY IPDG BILL CLAUSIUS (D1)

Curling Bonspiel 2023

Sounds on the ice of a bonspiel are noisy, with team skips yelling directions at the teammate who is about to send the stone down the ice. Outside the ice, curlers are exchanging stories of curling games, the one the team just played or renewing old Lions acquaintances. We welcomed the Thorp & Rib Mountain Lions teams for the first time to the bonspiel. Three curling teams representing two Lions club in D1 brought home awards from the Wisconsin Lions State Bonspiel, held this year in Medford, January 6-8. The Sun Prairie Lions Club sent eight

curling teams to the tournament, Cottage Grove Lions sent three teams and Pardeeville sent one team. The Faltersack rink won the second place award in the Second Event. Two Cottage Grove Lions teams did well: the Rottscheit rink won first place in the Third Event and the Blakely rink the second place award. The State Lions Bonspiel has existed for many years and is an opportunity for Lions to have fun and also share goings-on with their clubs. Thanks to everyone who participated! The 2024 Bonspiel will be hosted by the Galesville Lions at the Centerville Curling Club.

1ST EVENT - WINNERS: BOB HANSON - RINK: GALESVILLE (Back Row R to L) Skip Bob Hanson: 3rd Randy van Vleet: 2nd Mike Gunderson: Lead Dave Suttie 1ST EVENT - RUNNER UP: WAYNE MUCH - RINK: WAUPACA (Seated R to L) Skip Wayne Much: 3rd Doug Eskritt: 2nd Rand Swenson: Lead Rex Eulhuk.

2ND EVENT - WINNERS: ED VLACH - RINK: BLACK RIVER FALLS (Back Row R to L) Skip Ed Vlach: 3rd John Larkin: 2nd Ole Olson: Lead Shawn Callisto. 2ND EVENT - RUNNER UP JIM FALTERSACK - RINK: SUN PRAIRIE (Seated R to L) Skip Jim Faltersack: 3rd Matt Tully: 2nd Scott Ellingboe: Lead Mitch Arnold

3RD EVENT - WINNERS: DON ROTTSCHEIT - RINK: COTTAGE GROVE (Back Row R to L) Skip Don Rottscheit: 3rd Ken Arndt: 2nd Jim Elmore: Lead Carmine Greco 3RD EVENT - RUNNER UP: POOCH BLAKELY - RINK: COTTAGE GROVE (Seated R to L) Skip Pooch Blakely: 3rd Dennis Bork: 2nd Thomas Rathert: Lead Steve Rathert

4TH EVENT - WINNERS: BILL HENKE - RINK: THORP (Back Row R to L) Skip Fred Palmer: 3rd Bill Henke: 2nd Kert Boie: Lead Kevin Henke: Not Pictured Chad Henke 4TH EVENT - RUNNER UP: GREG BRYHN - RINK: ETTRICK (Seated R to L) Skip Greg Bryhn: 3rd Willie Vehrenkamp: 2nd John Pederson: Lead Mark Craig

32 Wisconsin WisconsinLion MARCH / APRIL 2023

The Wisconsin Lion March/April 2023

Articles inside

COLLECTOR’S CORNER

The Car That Wouldn’t Sink!

Seeley Lions React to the Needs of the Community

District Convention

Fredonia Lions Club 2022 Peace Poster Contest Winners

Random Act of Kindness, Paying it Forward

Thank You!

What we do for Others Remains Immortal

LEBW Welcomes a New Director of Clinical & Technical Services

to establish

Into the New Year 2023 with Lions Pride Endowment Fund

Regional Lions Learning Institute Update

The Future of the Wisconsin Lions Newspaper

Lion BJ Blahnik Elected as Next Council Chair

2023 MD27 State Convention

Winners Announced