The Wisconsin Lion July/August 2024 by Jennifer Creative

Lions attending the 2024 Multiple District 27 Wisconsin Lions Convention May 16-18 at the Marriott Madison West in Middleton heard twice from Past Lions International President Douglas X. Alexander, who not only spoke but also participated in workshops and socialized with Lions during the event. Alexander received gifts from Council of Governors Chair BJ Blahnik -- including a blanket, a crystal compass, a wooden bowl (in photo) and a pair of gloves made with deer hides donated to the Wisconsin Lions Foundation, Inc. Deer Hide Program.

Dinos attack! Not really. Wisconsin Lions Multiple District 27 governors from around the state donned dinosaur costumes for the Friday May 17 evening social during the 2024 Wisconsin Lions Convention held May 16-18 at the Marriott Madison West in Middleton. If you strain your eyes, you might be able to see Lions 27-D1 Gov. Jeff Winkler in the red dinosaur costume as they entered the social. And yes, they did dance to "Everybody do the Dinosaur."

Changing the World at the 2024 State Convention

PHOTOS BY LION CHRIS MERTES

The MD27 Lions State Convention, hosted by District 27-D1, was held May 17th and 18th at the Marriott Madison West, Middleton, WI. Thank you to all that attended. The State Convention Committee hopes that you

had a great time visiting with other Lions and enjoyed the many seminars that were available for you to attend.

The convention opened with the State Golf Outing on May 16th, hosted by District 27-D1. 75 golfers enjoyed a cool, but comfortable day at Pleasant View Golf Course, Middleton, WI. There was also an opportunity for Lions, Leos, and guests to visit our Lions Eye Bank and Restoring Hope Transplant House.

it was a

convention with lots of laughs,

The Friday luncheon featured keynote speaker Mary Heim, The Artful Asker. She spoke about grabbing onto your passion and how to engage givers in powerful ways. Elevate your thinking and elevate your results.

The State Convention Seminar Committee focused on offering plenty of options with something of interest to all. Attendees got to choose from over 20 different sessions! Seminar surveys were done completely electronically by scanning a QR code.

Of course, no convention is complete without a fun hospitality night! This year, the theme was “Teams” and attendees were encouraged to

represent their favorite team. The fun was accompanied by dancing and a visit from the District Governor Dinosaurs.

Our guest of honor was Past International President Douglas X. Alexander from Brooklyn, New York. During Saturday’s luncheon & Saturday banquet he shared words of wisdom about the importance of service and membership, also related stories from his own experience.

At the end of it all, we came back together to celebrate the accomplishments of MD27. Past International President Douglas X. Alexander shared another inspirational talk. The evening closed with the passing of the gavel ceremony, where the current District Governors passed the gavel to the 2024-2025 District Governors.

There are still state convention pins available. If you would like to purchase one for $5, please email DG Ron Wright, lionronwright27d1@gmail.com

A Special Thank You

BY LION TAMMY ROCKENBACH

Thank you, MD 27, Wisconsin for endorsing me as your next International Director. Lion Greg and I appreciate all the support that we have received not just this year, but since we became Lions.

What are the next steps? Lions International considers me an endorsed candidate starting July 1, 2024. But because our State Convention is within 60 days of the start of the International Convention, my name will not be eligible for the ballot until 2025 in Mexico City. Plan on attending the convention In Mexico City, I will need your support.

In the meantime, I would love to hear what our Lions need, share your stories with me. I will continue to attend district conventions, as I really like learning what each district is doing.

I am also your MD-GMT and MD-GMA this year. Working together we create great teams that lead to great success.

27-D1 DG Jeff Winkler holds a Certificate of Commendation stating that the 550 Lions Clubs of MD27 donate "thousands of hours of service to their communities each year and have made invaluable contributions to the state with a focus on addressing vision needs, diabetes, childhood cancer, disaster relief and more." The certificate from Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers commends the Lions "for their dedicated service to the state" and wishes "a successful 2024 MD27 Lions State Convention"!

Part of the MD27 Lions of Wisconsin State Convention, held this year May 16-18 at the Marriott Madison West in Middleton, involves sessions to inform and instruct the leaders of Wisconsin Lions Clubs. In this photo, Lion Adam Crowson discusses the importance of a succession plan by Lions Clubs in order to avoid burnout and involve younger members in the leadership of the club sooner.

2026 Bowling City

Bevent and Easton-Hewitt-Wausau

Lions - 253

Other – 1

INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENTIAL

Lion Bruce Voight (D1)

PDG William Anderson (E1)

INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP

Lion Darlene Janowitz (A1)

Lion Terry Tveita (A1)

Lion Slava Krol (A2)

Lion John Slattery (C1)

Lion Kerri Molter (C2)

Lion Dennis Christianson (C2)

Lion Steve Pogue (D1)

Lion Darrel Dwyer (D2)

Lion Barbara Dulmes (E1)

PDG Patrick Furey (E2)

Lion Kayleen Rosman (E2)

PRESIDENTIAL CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION

PDG Greg Pryor

PCC Stacey Nesseth

LIONS MEDAL OF HONOR (Presented Posthumously)

Lion PDG Donald (Don) Hartvig (C1)

Lion Bernard (Bernie) Sykora (E1)

LION RECOGNITION MEDAL

Lion Raymond (Ray) Tweedale (A2)

MELVIN JONES FELLOWSHIP

Lion Stacey Troha

HELMER LECY RECIPIENTS

PDG Glen Moegenberg

Dr. Julie Lee

LEO OF THE YEAR

Leo Trevor Nauta - Grafton (A2)

Leos Clubs are one way to involve youth in Lions Clubs International early. Awarding those Leos, such as Trevor Nauta of the Grafton Leos, is one way to motivate them. In this photo, Lions International Director Lee Vrieze, Past Lions Clubs International President Douglas X. Alexander and District 27-A2 Lions President Brenda Rumppe (right) congratulated Nauta for being the Wisconsin Leo of the Year as part of Saturday’s awards luncheon during the MD27 Lions of Wisconsin Convention held May 16-18 at the Marriott Madison West in Middleton.

Lions International Past President Douglas X. Alexander (right) and Multiple District 27-D1 International Director Lee Vrieze (left) presented McFarland Lions Club member Bruce Voight with a Presidential Award medal during the 2024 Wisconsin Lions Convention May 18 at the Marriott Madison West in Middleton. Voight received the award, which is reserved for Lions who work together in service as a team to further their community or Lions, during an awards luncheon.

Council of Governors Chair BJ Blahnik spoke during the Wisconsin Lions Business Meeting on Saturday, May 18 at the Wisconsin Lions Multiple 27-D1 Convention in Middleton.

A significant part of the annual MD27 Lions of Wisconsin Convention is the Wisconsin Lions Foundation, Inc. Annual Meeting, which this year included a tally of how much money that donated deer hides (which are turned into gloves and mittens sold to benefit WLF,) have benefited the Wisconsin Lions Foundation, Inc. Another highlight: The annual Parade of Checks, during which individual clubs present checks to the Foundation (in the photo to the right, Anita Kelley presents a check to WLF President Brad Behrens from Lions 27-C1) specifically earmarked for certain programs, including eyeglass recycling, diabetes awareness, vision screening, the hearing project and the Wisconsin Lions Camp .

Robin Robinson from the South Milwaukee Lions Club spoke about "Starting a New Club: A Community Approach" during the Wisconsin Lions 27-D1 State Convention, which was held May 16-18, 2024 at the Marriott Madison West in Middleton.

What if you could raise $8,000 by letting Lions throw pies in the faces of their District Governors? That question was answered when Wisconsin Lions met -- and exceeded -- the goal of the pie in the face contest when it was announced the effort had raised $20,000 for Lion Clubs International Foundation! So, the “losers” -- the top 5 selected through donations by Wisconsin Lions -- sat with plastic over their clothes and bathing caps on their heads following the May 18 business meeting (but before voting) and received their just desserts! Among those “throwing” (more like squishing) the whipped cream pies? None other than Past International President Douglas X. Alexander (with a pie in hand in two of the photos). Thanks for being great sports and congratulations on a wildly successful fundraiser!

Excited for a Productive Year Ahead

BY COUNCIL CHAIR JOHN REIL LIONJOHNR27B2@GMAIL.COM

Here we are at the start of a new Lionistic year, ready to do great things for our Communities, our Districts, and our State. Let me start by saying Thank You to this years District Governors for selecting me to be their Council Chair. I am honored for this opportunity and excited to be a part of their team and help move our Multiple District 27 forward. Your Council of Governors have been working together for two years. Their dedication & commitment is overwhelmingly strong. They are ready to support and lead us to new heights in this new year of Lionism. Our first Council of Governors meeting is July 27th at the Hotel Marshfield. Please join us in person or via zoom.

I joined Lions in 2011 and it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. Being part of an organization that helps people all around the world is “AWESOME” and I am proud to be a part of that and I hope all of you are too.

Our Statewide Projects and Programs are moving forward with some fantastic results and that is all because of you. Please continue to make a difference in the lives of those who need our support, our compassion and remember, everyone has a story, and we don’t judge, we HELP Thank you for being a Lion and lets continue doing what we do better than anyone else, and that is “We Serve”.

Working Toward Reaching Our Goals

BY GST PDG PATRICK FUREY PFUREY65@GMAIL.COM

Welcome to a new Lions year. This year will see some exciting things. First of all, there will be a continued emphasis on Mission 1.5. This is a four year goal to reach 1.5 million members worldwide. How do we get there? It starts with clubs having meaningful service projects in our communities. Having service projects that are important to your community sparks an interest in Lions and draws in new members. If we do service in our communities that is impactful, we will have our friends, neighbors and family asking how they can be a part of our great organization. Start by reaching out to your community leaders and ask them for ideas on how the Lions can provide meaningful service. Come up with new ideas that will “serve” people. While doing this service, make every effort to be seen. Wear your Lions vest or Lions shirts that identify who we are. For additional coverage, contact the local media. Then to finish the project up, REPORT IT! Lions are just getting started on a new method of reporting service on the “Lion Portal”. Start by going to lionsclubs.org . Click on the 3 bars in the upper right. Go to “Member Login” If it is your first time, go to “Getting Started”. Login to your existing account, review your credentials and setup a password. Now you are ready to work on the “Lion Portal”.

There you will see links to “My Membership” “My Club” “My CA” and “My Association”. There are also tabs for “Frequently Asked Questions” “Training Videos” and Helpful Resources”. To report service, click on the 3 bars in the upper left. Select “Serve” and “My Activities”. Then choose “Create Service Activity” and you are on your way!!!

If you need help, there are “Help” tabs within the new portal and the “Training Videos”. Or you can reach out to your District Global Service Team (GST) Chair. Let’s make this our best year ever!

What is a Leo?

BY LION PHILLIP HOLLIS LIONPHILHOLLIS@GMAIL.COM, 715-460-4831

Leo is the Latin word for Lion. They are often described as leaders who are determined, assertive, and driven. As we look forward in the Lions, we must look at our youth. I have been to many conventions in the past two years, where Leos have taken the spotlight. They are exactly what we want future Lions to be. Leos have integrated themselves into their communities through many service projects. The youths in your community want to help. Many of them are determined to make their imprint on the world around them and just need guidance.

How do we do this? Look within your club. Many times, there are members with ties to youth organizations, schools, grandchildren, and parents. Start there. Ask them to bring the younger generation to fundraisers and service projects. It all starts with one ask, then another, and another.

Leos start at the age of 12. That does not mean that kids younger than 12 cannot help. You may even have the opportunity to start a Cub Club, which is for kids younger than 12. Make this a family event. Bring your passion to the younger generation. As your State Leo Chair, I want to help you out in any way possible. With all of us working together, we can help the next generation see the value in serving.

Lions Using Technology

BY IPDG PATTY HOLLIS LIONPATTYHOLLIS@GMAIL.COM

Technology has changed how people communicate. It has made it faster, easier, and more convenient for us, as Lions, to get the word out about who we are and what we do. As technology changes, it is sometimes hard to keep up with how to use it, the best method to use, and when to use it. As you will see there are many ways to communicate with the public.

One way is video conferencing, or as some will say, Zoom. This is a live visual connection between two or more people over the internet that simulates a face-to face meeting. This is a great way to conduct meetings when it is not possible to meet in person. A great way to use Zoom is at your monthly meetings for people who cannot attend due to childcare, work obligations, vacations, etc. This will help members feel included and help retain them. You can get a zoom account by going to their website. There is a free version.

Social media has many platforms. The most popular one is Facebook. This is a great tool to advertise your club events. First, your club has to have a Facebook page. This page should be updated at least weekly. When you have an event, you can publish it and send it to all your friends, plus community members. Another

GLOBAL MEMBERSHIP TEAM (GMT)

Accomplishing More as a Team

BY GMT TAMMY ROCKENBACH LZROCK@CHARTER.NET

Hi Lions! We are starting a new chapter in our Lion Journey. And I am excited. The possibilities are endless.

My name is Tammy Rockenbach, and I am the Global Membership Team Coordinator. But you noticed I said Team. That is what GMT stands for. Global Membership Team. We accomplish more when we work as a team.

Just a few items that we will be working on this year: orientation, recruitment, membership satisfaction, mentoring, communications and retention. How can you help with those challenges? Are you willing to be a part of the team?

Our District Governors have been challenged with increasing membership. They have goals ranging from maintaining their current membership numbers to increasing by 40 new members. Each district needs to start a new club. This not only increases the membership numbers, but also new ideas. We also develop new leaders with new clubs. Retention is needed to increase those numbers also. Why do we focus so much on membership? We want to serve 1 billion people a year, and we can only do that with more members.

District Governors also need to make sure that training programs are in place for those leaders. We can assist our Global Leadership Team with those efforts.

We need to work on our marketing and communication methods. Everything that is old is new again. We will be discussing ways to keep our members and communities aware of our service and projects.

And the final goal that Lions International has given our DGs is to make sure to fund our foundation-LCIF. If not us, who?

This year we are working together to better our organization. Are you with us?

social media platform is Instagram. This is a free social networking and photosharing app that allows you to share photos and videos to your followers. You can use this as a tool to show what you have done, or what your club is doing now.

You Tube videos are a hit amongst many people. You can make videos and then put them out on the internet. Shoot small commercials showing who and what your club does. Show the Lions at work and at play. Let the community know that you are there.

Then there are podcasts. Think about a radio show. This is very similar, only you are downloading or streaming it from the internet. And you can listen to it at any time. Find someone who is familiar with putting on podcasts. Use these to have interview style shows. Talk about the Lions, what your club does, the history of the club, how one would join you to Serve. At one of your events, you could even be live on a podcast from that location.

One thing that you must do though is advertise that you have these methods of communication. What good is a podcast if no one knows to listen to it? Facebook is only as good as the last update. These methods can work together. When you are on a Zoom call, tell everyone to make sure to get out the word to like and follow your Instagram and Facebook page. Put the word out on both that you have a podcast, with the link they can follow.

This may all seem intimidating to someone who is not “tech savvy”. There are ways to learn. One way is to use you tube videos. Another great way is to go to the local high school, explain that you would like to have a student, or students show you how to do all of this. This is a great way to interact with the youth in the community. Remember, when you get frustrated with the technology, that through the generations, we have gotten use to the newspaper, the radio, the tv, computers, the internet, and now we will get use to all the social media platforms we have at our fingertips.

MD27 STATE MERCHANDISE ORDER FORM

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.

DEADLINE: 1st of preceding month.

EDITORIAL BOARD

Jamie Wilde Chair

Roxanne Wendt Vice Chair

Thomas Wendt GLT

Patrick Furey GST

Tammy Rockenbach GMT

Evett Hartvig WLF

Adam Crowson LEBW

DISTRICT EDITORS

A1 a1@wilions.org

A2 27a2editor@gmail.com

B1 vandynelionsnews@yahoo.com

B2 27b2pr@gmail.com

C1 c1lionnews@gmail.com

C2 lions27c2roger@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 Jamie Wilde at jamiewilde06@yahoo.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: 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: John Reil 920-759-1388 lionjohnr27b2@gmail.com

PAST 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

RESTORING HOPE TRANSPLANT HOUSE Cindy Herbst, Executive Director 7457 Terrace Ave Middleton, WI 53562 608-831-1726

Inspiration Through Good Leadership

BY GLT TOM WENDT trwendt@hotmail.com, 920-517-2724

Hello MD27! As the newly appointed MD27 GLT, I’d like to thank the incoming Council of Governors for giving me the opportunity to lead the District GLT representatives for the upcoming year. I’m very excited to take this position as I feel Leadership is the key element in the Global Action Team, good Leadership will inspire both Membership and Service.

Also thank you to last year’s MD-GLT, PDG Dave Strudthoff for his encouragement and assistance in this position. PDG Dave continues to be a major part of the Global Leadership Team with the development of the First Annual Lions Servant Leadership Instructor Institute, August 9, 10 & 11, 2024 in La Crosse WI. For information email Md27@wisconsinlions.org Subject: Leadership Application.

It’s that time of year, many clubs are scheduling officer training, contact your District Governor or District GLT for details or any Leadership questions and advise. Watch for possible upcoming Statewide training opportunities as our State GLT Team is planning to schedule some this year.

THE 2022-23 WISCONSIN LIONS COUNCIL OF GOVERNORS ANNUAL BREWERS OUTING took place on June 15 at American Family Field in Milwaukee. The group extended a special welcome to PDG Don Drew and his wife, Cindy, for joining the group at the game.

Join in the Fun at your Foundation

BY PAT HART, PRESIDENT, WISCONSIN LIONS FOUNDATION

I am privileged to be your Wisconsin Lions Foundation President for 20242025. I have been a Lion since 2002, currently a member of the Tomah Lions and beginning my sixth and final year on the WLF Board of Directors as its President.

My first thought as I write is to thank Immediate Past President Lion Brad Behrens for the exceptional year he had as not only our President, but how through his leadership, the Deer Hide Program has grown. I hope to continue to lead as well as Lion Brad did.

Many thanks to those who ran the State Lions Convention in Middleton this past May. The Convention had excellent speakers, as well as a great venue. We also found out that the Lions of Wisconsin raised $117,759.00 collecting deer hides and tails and selling gloves. This was up from $109,722 last year. Thank You!! I was part of the “Pie in the Face” fundraiser that netted over $20,000 for LCIF. I believe our WLF Executive Director Lion Evett enjoyed putting the pie in my face!

As a young Lion in 2003, I visited our Camp on a bus trip with the Warrens and Tomah Lions for the first time. It was at that time that I realized that I wanted to be part of this. Seeing those kids with disabilities smiling and laughing made me happy, as well. As a kid, I never went to a camp so seeing one was new to me. I’d heard about the Camp from other Lions before, but seeing it for the first time was quite an experience. How about you…. Have you been to Lions Camp? Visitor Days began June 5th and ends July 31st and are always held on Wednesdays. At this late date, many slots are full, but give us a call if you are interested, we’d love to give you a tour...715-677-4969 and ask for Phillip Potter, Hospitality Director.

Coming up on July 20th is the 27th Annual BirchSturm Golf Outing held at Glacier Wood Golf Club in Iola. This event benefits the five Projects sponsored

by WLF: Lions Camp, Eyeglass Recycling, Hearing, Diabetes Awareness and Vision Screening. August 10th is the 15th Annual “Hustle S’more & S’more Fun at Lions Camp” Event. Registration begins at 8:00am Start times are 9:00am – 15-mile Bike Race; 9:30am – 10K Run; 9:45am – 5K Run/ Walk; 10:00am – The famous 1-mile Donut Dash. At 11:30am, S’more Fun at Lions Camp starts and activities run until 4:30pm For more info on both of these events look online at wlf.info/hustle-smore/ Don’t forget to purchase your “Camp for Kids” raffle tickets. They are $10.00 each and it’s a cash drawing which will be held on September 25th, at 2:00pm at the WFL Office – Good Luck! You will see me at most events during the next year. Come up and say “Hello”. I’d love to talk with you about Lions and your club.

JOIN US FOR THE MUD PIT CHALLENGE

The Mud Pit Challenge between WLF’s 2023-24 President, Brad Behrens and their current President, Patrick Hart will take place in the afternoon of Saturday, August 10th during the Hustle S’more for Lions Camp event. Lions Brad and Pat are raising money for Wisconsin Lions Camp’s Wish List and will be jumping in the mud pit in Tuxedos. If you, your club or district would like to donate to this event, please contact the Wisconsin Lions Foundation for more info.

LEBW Announces New Board Chair

BY DON DREW, LEBW BOARD CHAIR

LEBW is excited to announce the 202425 LEBW Board Chair, PDG Don Drew. Don has been a Lion since 1992 and is a member of the Hales Corners Lions in southwestern Milwaukee County. Don married his wife Cindy in 1985 and has been serving with her support for nearly all of their marriage. Their son Jon has been a Lion for over 5 years and serves as the District Environmental Chair in District 27-A1. Don has served in every office except Treasurer in his club. He has sponsored and mentored 13 Lions, including his own father and his brother, PDG Mike Drew. In 1995, Lion Don was appointed to the 27-A1 District Cabinet and has filled many roles for his District, including Cabinet Secretary/ Treasurer in 2001. He has served the Multiple District, most recently as the MD Global Service Coordinator in 2023. Lion Don served on the LEBW Board as the Council Representative

while District Governor of 27-A1 in 2020-21. He joined the LEBW Board in 2021 at the end of his Council Representative term and is honored to accept his new role as the Chair of the LEBW Board of Directors this year.

“The Lions motto ‘We Serve’ is exactly what our Lions clubs do for our communities, from supplying a child’s first pair of glasses to feeding families that are hungry to giving aid to communities after a disaster,” Don said. “In this next Lions year we will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of Helen Keller’s address to the Lions asking us to become her Knights of the Blind in her crusade against darkness to stop preventable blindness.

“LEBW directly serves people with no vision or low vision through corneal transplants giving surgeons the tools to restore people’s sight. I can’t think of any better way to support Helen Keller’s dreams and I am proud to be a small part in fulfilling Helen Keller’s wishes.”

LEBW would also like to recognize our retiring board of directors, Past Board Chair PDG Bob Henning (2017-2024), PDG Bob Klockow (2018-2024) who has led our Tribute

More Updates from the Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin

New Transporter training, certification coming in 2024-25 Lions Year

The Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin is pleased to announce a new training and certification program for transporters scheduled to start during the 2024-25 Lions year. LEBW Transporters are responsible for moving our most precious cargo throughout the state of Wisconsin which is subject to rules and regulations related to the transport of human tissue. We have developed a workshop that will help better educate transporters and continue to ensure the safe and proper delivery of cornea tissue. Similar to the vision screening certification program, transporter training includes an orientation of the Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin and prepares them for the scenarios they might encounter enroute to their destination. The training program will help answer common questions about why LEBW asks transporters to do things a certain way.

Why are we doing this?

With more than 2,600 volunteers in the entire state of Wisconsin, it is vital that all volunteers

are educated and knowledgeable about how the timing of deliveries and decisions made before and during transports impacts the eye bank’s ability to ensure the best cornea transplant outcomes. Additionally, transporters perform their service within regulated chain of custody laws related to the transportation of human tissue. LEBW and our Lion Transporters have always complied with all regulatory requirements. The new training will provide all the support and guidance needed to continue to successfully fulfill the requirements of being a Lions Volunteer Transporter.

Please know that the LEBW CEO and Board of Directors and all the eye bank staff recognize and acknowledge that Lions Transporter’s service goes far beyond meeting regulatory requirements.

Lions have faithfully served as a unique Honor Guard for donor families and recipients shepherding the gift of sight to its important destination. It is an enormous comfort to donor families to know that their loved one’s gift is in the hands of caring, respectful volunteers who understand the importance of the contents of

Garden Committee, and Dr. Michael Shapiro (2018-2024) from Anderson-Shapiro Eye Care in Madison who has shared his medical expertise with the eye bank and initiated LEBW health fairs which he hosted at his office. Dr. Shapiro volunteered to provide the clinical coordination for our cataract mission trip to Guatemala as well as volunteering to perform the cataract surgeries along with his wife. His children also volunteered to help us in Guatemala. We thank all our directors for their outstanding leadership and service on the LEBW board of directors. We especially thank the outgoing board chair, Erica Singley. As a cornea recipient herself, Erica has been an excellent champion for LEBW this past year, helping educate Lions in our work and in our communities on how those who give the gift of sight are truly heroes.

Finally, we would like to welcome our incoming board members, PDG Dan Montaine of the Grafton Lions in A2, Lion Al Kanugh of the Manitowoc Lions in B1, and DG James Dimock of the Menomonie Lions as the 2024-25 Council Representative.

the box and treat the gift with the utmost dignity and respect. Your service also helps patients by keeping the cost of transplants lower by not passing the expense of transporting tissue on to patients receiving the gift of sight as other eye banks must do. You are a vital member of the eye banking team and we sincerely hope that you will understand the necessity to provide

and document certified training and support the changes we need to make. The Lions Transport Council invites ideas and welcomes constructive feedback and suggestions. More information is forthcoming soon.

How do I get certified?

LEBW is working to make training dates/times as convenient as possible for our volunteers. Training sessions will be announced soon. They will be available virtually through Zoom, in person at transporter meetings, on the Friday afternoon of district conventions or by scheduling a training with Lion Adam Crowson, Communications and Outreach Manager. Adam can be reached by phone at 608-709-8197 or by email at acrowson@lebw.org.

Your first certified transporter training session will take between 60 to 90 minutes as there is time built in for discussion. This certification will be good for one year.

As you approach your annual deadline for recertification, you will be contacted about upcoming recertification sessions in your area. The recertification session is intended to be a refresher and provide updates about any changes in the program in your area. The recertification sessions will be no more than 30 minutes, and this renews your certification for one year.

Are we required to be certified to transport?

It is essential for compliance purposes that all transporters become Certified Lions Volunteer Transporters. You will receive a certificate upon completion of the workshop and be recognized for this achievement.

New Volunteer Position: Transport Instructor/Regional Coordinator

To fully support our new training program, LEBW is seeking 12 volunteers to serve in the prestigious role of transport instructors/ regional coordinators. These very special volunteer positions will facilitate transporter training and the recertification training workshops in your region of Wisconsin and help communicate timely updates to dispatchers and transporters in your area.

As an instructor, you will work with Lion Adam Crowson, Communications and Outreach Manager to learn about the Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin, its transporter program, and how to instruct and train transporters and dispatchers. (e.g. train the trainer). Instructors are required to attend a half-day workshop at the Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin to become certified as instructors/trainers.

Once certified, you will schedule transporter trainings two times a year or as requested by transporters in your region. Training can be done in person at your district’s convention, at scheduled meetings, or virtually.

As a Regional Coordinator, you will act similarly to zone chairs and help assist the LEBW Communications and Outreach Manager by checking in with club dispatchers the month before their club is on call. Primary duties of this job include:

– Email club dispatchers to remind them their club is on call starting next month

– Send club dispatchers their club’s transporter roster

– Check in with Dispatchers to ensure they have created a schedule with full coverage for the month they are on call (including weekends and holidays).

– Report back to Transport Program Manager updates, issues and concerns

Lions who are interested in this role must have experience in Lions leadership beyond the club level, have excellent communication skills, have experience training Lions, and have experience using PowerPoint, Excel. Preferred qualifications include, but are not required:

– Graduate of the Lions Faculty Development Institute

– Graduate of the Lions Certified Instructor Program

– Certified Guiding Lions

– Member of the LEBW Transporter Council

– Club Dispatchers already serving as regional coordinators

For Lions interested in becoming an instructor, please submit a letter of interest to Lion Adam Crowson at acrowson@lebw.org. In the letter, please include your Lions resume which should highlight positions you’ve held, certifications and trainings you’ve attended, etc.

As of 5/31, LEBW transporters have done 2,595 transports by 475 clubs during the 2023-24 Lions year.

The University of Wisconsin Department of Ophthalmology brought seven resident fellows to tour the Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin on May 24. The tour showcased the LEBW wet lab and how LEBW recovery technicians are trained to recover cornea tissue from donors, how our clinical staff evaluates the tissue when it arrives at LEBW so they can determine the health of the tissue for the surgeons we partner with and finally, a demonstration on how cornea tissue is processed and prepared for transplant surgery.

Congratulations to LEBW employees on being appointed to the Eye Bank Association of America’s Medical Advisory Board and Accreditations Board. LEBW’s Director of Quality

Services Andreea Bauknecht and LEBW Medical Director Dr. Evan Warner were appointed to 3-year terms to the EBAA’s Accreditation Board. Andreea was also appointed to a 2-year term on the EBAA’s Legislative and Regulatory committee. Other appointees include LEBW Director of Clinical and Technical Services Dr. Tolulope Oyedun to the Scientific Programs committee; LEBW Surgical Services Liaison Ivan Castaneda to the Continued Education and Position Research committees; LEBW Regulatory and Compliance Specialist Brianne Statz was appointed to the Quality Assurance committee; and LEBW Quality Services Specialist and Medical Director Designee Michael Grunewald was appointed to the Medical Review Subcommittee and the Constitution and Bylaws committee. The appointments were made on June 10 at the annual EBAA Conference. Thank you to the Grand Rapids Lions for inviting the Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin to educate about cornea donation at the Cranberry Blossom Festival in Wisconsin Rapids on June 22.

2024 LEBW Annual Meeting

Wednesday, July, 17, 2024, 4:00pm

The Lone Girl Brewing Company, Waunakee

Cleveland Lions Craft & Vendor Show August 3-4

Dairyland Park, Cleveland

LEBW will be on hand to educate the community on how cornea donation helps their community and how the Cleveland Lions support our organization and mission. Thank you, Cleveland Lions for inviting us to serve with you.

Youth Exchange students visit LEBW Wednesday, August 14

Saving Sight:

The Journey of the Gift of Sight

Thursday, August 22, 6:30 pm Health Sciences Learning Center on the UW Hospital Campus, 750 Highland Ave., Madison

Dr. Tolulope Oyedun, LEBW’s Director of Clinical and Technical Services will be the guest speakers at the University of Wisconsin Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences lecture series.

Appleton Noon Lions Senior Expo Wednesday, September 18, 8am-12 noon

Players Choice

LEBW will be on hand to educate the community on how cornea donation helps their community and how the Appleton Noon Lions support our organization and mission. Thank you Appleton Noon Lions for inviting us to participate.

27-A1 NEWS

FORT ATKINSON LIONS CLUB – In preparation for Memorial Day weekend, Fort Atkinson Lions Club members cleaned up the various parks in the area and then held the final meeting of the year with a steak dinner.

Pictured are (bottom to top): Chuck Jacobson, E.G. Becker, and John Houseman spread bark at Lions Park.

are (l): Lions Larry

and

FORT ATKINSON LIONS CLUB – The Club earned its first bench last month. It will memorialize Lion Dr. Frank Beran, a member of the Fort Atkinson Lions for 57 years. He passed away last December. The bench will be placed at the American Legion Dugout, where Lions Club meetings are held. Lions Betty Strese and Nancy Onufer sit on the club’s first bench. These ladies organized the plastic collection.

DISTRICT OFFICER TRAINING – DGE

Patt Gorke led the officer training in New Berlin. PDG Larry Redlin addressed the group on member retention.

STATE CONVENTION

We are proud to announce the first three Karla N. Harris Leadership Fellowship Award recipients. They include Elkhorn Lions Angel Kiersztian and Javan Wehmeier, and South Milwaukee Lion 2VDGE Patti Redlin Funds have also been approved for three Lions to attend the USA/Canada Forum from the Karla N Harris Scholarship. They will be awarded the reimbursement, portfolio, and pin after the conference completion.

Lions Larry

. Back: Lions Casey,

and recipient

, and Clarence

FRANKLIN LIONESS LIONS CLUB –

The Club presented scholarships to five outstanding Franklin High School seniors. These $1,000 scholarships are based on their demonstrated dedication to volunteerism. Each scholarship is to be used to continue their education at an accredited technical school or college/university.

Environmental concerns is one of the Lions International initiatives. In conjunction with Franklin’s city-wide cleanup on May 4th, the Club teamed up with Waste Management to clear garbage from our roadsides.

, and Lori

A few members planted flowers around the bench, just north of the historical society at Lions legend park. Volunteers will water and care for the plants during the summer months.

MUSKEGO LIONS CLUB – A collegiate scholarship was awarded to Josh Oechsner from Catholic Memorial High School and an IEP/504 scholarship each to Creighton Hofmeister and Abigail Angle from Muskego High School on May 13. The Club has been awarding scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Muskego since 1950. The Muskego Lions Robert Kreuser/David Salentine scholarships are named after two members who each served in our school district.

Elkhorn Lions Angel Kiersztian and Javan Wehmeier.

Front:

Redlin

Patti Redlin

Claren

Harris

Serrano

Lions John Anderson and Larry Narkis pull weeds and rake at the park near the Armory.

Lion Bob Buell grilled everyone’s steaks.

Below: Lions Park

Pictured

Narkis, Dave Ring, Glen Schafer

(r): Jeff Woods

Mason Becker enjoy their steak dinner.

The scholarship winners: Therese Pitcher, Kayla Schuerman, Leah Vogedes, Lauren Johnson, and Kelly Dordel.

Greendale Lions Club

Family 4th Fest

Wednesday, July 3rd

Gazebo Park, 5798 Broad St., Greendale

Fort Atkinson Lions Club Tour de Fort

John McKenzie and Don Bakker Memorial Bike Ride

Saturday, August 24th

• 16-mile, 31-mile, & 62-mile ride options.

• A scenic ride through wooded areas of Jefferson County including Rock Lake, Lake Ripley, and Koshkonong Creek thru Fort Atkinson, Jefferson, Lake Mills, Cambridge.

• bit.ly/Lions-TDF-2024

Oak Creek LionsFest ‘24

Friday-Monday, August 30-September 2

• Free admission.

• Three stages of live music, carnival rides, great food and ice cold beer

• Go to Oakcreeklions.com for details.

East Troy Lions Club Car Show

Saturday, October 5th

Rossmiller Sports Complex, East Troy

• Car Show with music, food, raffles.

• Goody Bags to first 200 cars.

• Proceeds go to East Troy Lions Public Library and Childhood Cancer.

• $10 registration.

• Total of 15 trophies.

CAMBRIDGE LIONS CLUB

–

Summer in Cambridge means Pizza in the Park for the Lions Club. Members took orders, cooked pizzas, and sold beverages to the community as they gathered in the local park to enjoy live music and socialization.

Save the Date! 27-A1 DISTRICT CONVENTION

January 3-5, 2025 Ingleside Hotel, Pewaukee Theme: Take Action! Serve!

If a Lion in your club has passed away in 2024, please email convention@wilions.org with their name, club, and years of service. We will include them in our Service of Memoriam at the district convention.

MUSKEGO LIONS CLUB – The 4th year celebration was celebrated on June 1st at the Bluhm Farm Park and included Tess Corners Fire & Rescue, Muskego Police Department, heart-felt speakers, and a musician. Gathering after the rain-soaked afternoon, the greater Muskego community celebrated life, honored and remembered those lives lost to addiction, and renewed commitment to drug awareness. At dusk, lanterns were released lighting up the evening sky. Thanks to Lion Jenny Reidy and her Holly’s Hope committee for keeping the conversation going about drug awareness in our communities.

27-A1

DISTRICT

GOVERNOR

“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.”

- Helen Keller

As we start a new Lionistic year, we should take pride in all our accomplishments of the past year. I would like to express my gratitude to IPDG Lion Tal Janowitz and all the Lions of our District for their tremendous efforts. Together we have accomplished remarkable things. I am confident that we will continue to achieve even greater successes as we strive toward our goals. A special thank you to all the clubs working on retention and gaining new members as we are concentrating on Mission 1.5. Together we will grow stronger as we stay committed to our communities. Remember, more hands provide more service.

My motto this year is, “Take Action, Serve!” The passion for service is contagious. Service projects are the way to attract new members. Most people have a passion about something. With the current eight Global Initiatives: Vision, Hunger, Diabetes Awareness, Environment, Childhood Cancer, Disaster Relief, Humanitarian and Youth, look for members of your community who have a passion for helping others and give them the opportunity to get involved. Remember, “Just Ask!”

Another passion of mine is to strengthen our clubs. One method is to utilize the Club Quality Initiative outlined by LCI as a tool to assist clubs to grow stronger and stay committed to helping their communities. I strongly recommend this method and am available to any and all clubs interested in putting CQI into action. Remember, “Take Action, Serve!”

Our District Convention is once again at the Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee, January 3-4, 2025. Please mark these dates on your calendar. This is our opportunity to have fun, enjoy ourselves, share ideas, and recognize each other for our hard work. Most importantly we will acknowledge our contributions to our communities.

We invite all District Lions to the first Cabinet meeting, hosted by the Lions Club of Waterford at Bruno’s in Waterford July 15, 2024, at 6:00pm Please remember to review the District Calendar for specifics and information on all upcoming events.

As your District Governor, the District Cabinet and I will be visible and available to assist you all. We will be at your meetings, fundraisers, and service events offering encouragement and lending a hand when needed.

Lion Sue and I have met great Lions in our District who have now become friends. We look forward to meeting new friends. Thank you for all you do and have a wonderful year serving others.

SEEKING NOMINATIONS

District Governor 1st Vice District Governor 2nd Vice District Governor WLF Director (3 year term)

District Bowling 2026

District Golf 2026

The forms can be found on the District website. If you can not access them contact Lion Cindy Lotzer at cindy.lotzer@yahoo.com. All forms MUST be submitted by October 15, 2024. Thank You!

EAST TROY LIONS CLUB – 1,620 pounds of food and $1,113 was collected at a food drive for the local food pantry May 18-19.

27-A2 NEWS

BEAVER DAM LIONS CLUB – In recognition of Arbor Day, the Club, with help from the Forestry Department of Beaver Dam, planted a Freeman Maple Tree. This tree is planted to remember Lions Lowell Peck and John Breitwisch who passed away in the last year. They were great servants to the community. This tree will provide shade, shelter for birds, and beautiful fall colors as a remembrance of their years of service.

BEAVER DAM LIONS CLUB –Lion Dr. Alan Ehrhardt, his wife Ramona, and son Jonathan after receiving Beaver Dam Wall of Fame Award accompanied by fellow Beaver Dam Lions Club members.

Kevin Rhodes and Chief John

DAM LIONS

–Representatives of the Club that supported the Donate Life Flag Raising event at Marshfield Medical Center-Beaver Dam. Pictured are: Lions Mike Baxter, Lisa Goodrich, Dawn Lyons-Wood, John Bordak, and Rich Dahl

THIENSVILLE-MEQUON

LIONS CLUB – On May 4th, the Club participated in Whitefish Bay’s “RECYCLE DAY IN THE BAY”, held at Dominican High School’s Parking Lot. The items collected will be sorted and sent to Lions Camp in Rosholt to be redistributed to those in need. Pictured are Lion Holly Young and Lion Robert Gosewehr

Change of leadership in MD27-A2”with DG Lion Brenda Rumppe to DGE Slava Krol on Saturday May 18th, 2024.

OCONOMOWOC LIONS CLUB –

On May 11th, the Club donated $10,000 to Zachariah’s Acres. Their mission is to connect children with special needs, and their families, to the miracles of nature so they may know their Creator. The Lions see this partnership as a natural extension of their varied history of service to the Oconomowoc community since 1917, and are excited to begin working with the truly exceptional organization of Zachariah’s Acres. With projects beginning with the expansion of the educational kitchen, they are proud to support Zachariah’s Acres. Pictured are (l to r): Lions President Robert Yarbrough, Lions Treasurer Cheri Luck, Dave Evans, Lion Mike Welsh, Zachariah’s Acres Dir. Of Community Impact Emily Enockson, Lion Chris Palumbo, Lions Secretary Kathy Rosencranz, Lion Randy Luck, and Lion Jay Staus

HARTFORD LIONS CLUB – March 26th was designated National Diabetes Alert Day by the American Diabetes Association. The Club supported this event by: 1.) Offering Diabetes Screening at the Hartford Senior Center. Lions Dona M and Chris C. worked the testing. 2.) Providing diabetes prevention sleeves on coffee cups at Dunkin’ and Perc Place, as well as messages on water bottles at Snap Fitness, Hartford Parks and Recreation Center and Anytime Fitness. The provided prevention messages emphasized an estimated 1.5M Wisconsin citizens have prediabetes and don’t know it.

LIONS

– The Club collected unused prescription drugs and over the counter drugs. Over the past four years they have collected over 800 lbs.

HORICON LIONS CLUB – We are so excited to announce the opening of the Horicon Lions Dog Park at River Bend! Thank you to the City of Horicon for collaborating with us to make this happen. The park is officially open. Several Lions Members and City Leaders were there for a photo including Mayor Josh Maas - Horicon and DPW & Utilities Director Cody Vanderhei. A special thank you to Cody and Lion John Schwartz for all of their hard work with this project. The Lions ask that if you use the dog park, to please follow the rules that are posted there. We hope that everyone is able to enjoy the dog park for many years to come.

HARTFORD

CLUB

BEAVER DAM LIONS CLUB – Lions

Kreuziger presenting a donation to officers in charge of the Beaver Dam crossing guards.

BEAVER

CLUB

GRAFTON LIONS CLUB – Each Spring volunteers get together to plant flower baskets that adorn Washington Street. Several Lions and their spouses planted these baskets to be hung up for this summer.

Pictured: Lion Dan Wrolstad, Barb Wrolstad, Laura Hennig, Lion Mike Hennig, Nan Antoine, Lion Dave Antoine, Lion Jackie Krueger, and Lion Tom Krueger.

GRAFTON LIONS CLUB – The memory of former Club President Jack Bublitz was honored with a memorial stone at Lion’s Park. Bublitz wife Vi, was present for the installation of the stone. A Sugar Maple was also planted in his honor. Pictured: former Lions Park Chairman Dave Mauer, Vi Bublitz, and Lion Jim Brown, former Lions Past President and present Lions Park Chairman. Standing is Grafton Park & Recreational Director, Chad Hoier.

FROM THE 27-A2 DISTRICT GOVERNOR

DISTRICT GOVERNOR

As the new 2024-25 Lionistic year approaches at warp speed (or it may just seem like it to me) our District’s team is busy setting the goals and putting together plans to have these goals achieved. Our goals are ambitious, and we are hoping for the help of all the Lions in our wonderful District to reach them. International President Fabricio Oliveira suggests that while we support all eight global causes of Lions International, we select two on which we are going to concentrate on. As a District we selected Diabetes and Hunger.

GRAFTON LIONS CLUB – The Grafton Lions Club presented four $1,000 scholarships: one Grafton Leo Scholarship and three Grafton Lions Scholarships. The scholarships were judged based on school and community activities, volunteerism, helping other students, character, integrity and ethical standards. The Leo Scholarship was awarded to Trevor Nauta, also chosen earlier this year as one of the recipients for the Lions Citizenship Award. Trevor plans to attend UW-Madison majoring in Finance and Political Science. The following three are Lions Scholarship recipients. Braden Meyer will attend Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, where he plans to major in Animal Ecology. Keegen Vaculik plans to attend Marquette University, to major in Statistical Science and Economics. Pyper Flaig will be attending Simmons University in Boston, to major in History and Information Technology. Pyper was also chosen earlier this year as one of the recipients of the Lions Citizenship Award.

FREDONIA LIONS CLUB – At the May dinner meeting, Rev. Marshal Frisque, Pastor of St John Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod, since 2018, was recognized as our 2024 Lion Community Service recipient. St John’s is located at 824 Fredonia Ave, Fredonia, (262) 692-2734. For many years, St. John’s Church has supported your Fredonia Lions by hosting our annual spring and fall Blood Drives. Our Fredonia Lions Club and St. John’s Church also support our area Food Banks and Food Drives. Rev. Frisque has always been supportive and willing to assist with any items within community need areas. Ozaukee County Sheriff Christy Knowles gave an excellent presentation of the many support groups provided by our Sheriffs Office with information showing that citizen mental health is the greatest need which takes a large amount of time provided by your Sheriffs Office.

Our Clubs do so much in our Communities and we keep on adding new Service Projects every year. This is really great to see! Let’s make sure our service is reported. It is incredibly important for our Clubs’ Secretaries to report Service Hours to LCI. With the new Lion Portal there may be some questions as things changed. Please reach out if you need any help with reporting in the new Portal. Our District has already provided training for all the Officers, including Secretaries and we will continue to provide remote group or even personal training as needed.

We need Members to provide so much needed Service in our Communities. As a District, we do a very good job bringing in new Members and we need to make sure we keep the ones we already have. I encourage you to reach out to those members who haven’t been coming to the meetings lately. Give them a call, knock on their doors. They will appreciate your attention. As for the newer members, please make sure they get involved. Offer them to be on a committee for a project they are passionate about.

I would like to extend my gratitude to the 2023-24 Cabinet. Under leadership of IPDG Brenda Rumppe the Cabinet worked hard to make the year a success. And finally, I would like to thank each and every single Lion in the District for your hard work and for your Service.

CEDARBURG LIONS CLUB – The Club celebrated a significant milestone by welcoming its 10,000th donor at the April 11th Blood Drive. The Club has helped save thousands of lives through its 15-year sponsorship of the Cedarburg Community Blood Drive. At this drive, all donors received a $10 debit card and a special Lions coffee mug honoring our 10,000 donors. Drives are held six times a year at the Ozaukee Pavilion on the County Fairgrounds. Lions provide special foods and beverages, talk with donors, and give donors prizes based on how much they know about blood. The CCBD has grown into one of the Midwest’s biggest drives. We are so proud of the Cedarburg Lions,” said Lauren Sanders Fleming, Versiti Northeast Wisconsin account representative. “They are a top contributor of overall donations annually across the state.”

Grafton Lions Scholarship Cochairman, Lion Dave Antoine, Trevor Nauta, Braden Meyer, Keegan Vaculik, and Pyper Flaig.

Talented Lions Add Play Equipment to Lions Playland

The New Holstein Lions Club recently used their many talented members to add new play equipment.

The new equipment was funded in part by a Lions Clubs International Foundation Community Service Grant and profits from the various fundraisers the club organized throughout the past years.

The S-Crawl tunnel at the Playland is designed with very low access for the younger and challenged individuals. The 50-foot ZipKrooz piece has two rails, one for older children and one with a chair for younger children and people with disabilities. There also was a SuperScoop in an increased area added to the sandbox.

The park has benches around the play area for parents to rest while supervising their children along with a pavilion available for a picnic lunch or shade. The Lion bubbler is there to provide water on hot summer days.

The New Holstein Lions held their Big Bucks Fun Night at the Altona April 25th. Profits will go toward the final costs of the current additions.

Additional profits will be going to the Lions supported projects within the New Holstein community and Lions State projects. Lions Club International supported entities include Childhood Cancer, Diabetes, Disaster relief, Environment, Humanitarian causes, Hunger, Vision, and Youth. If anyone is interested in joining the New Holstein Lions Club, see a member for an application. Men and women are always welcome; an interest in serving is the main criteria.

FOND DU LAC EVENING LIONS CLUB –Lions PDG Tom Clausen and PDG Gary Colton took on the newest Lions recycling project for the state, that of recycling marine shrink wrap. The Club recycled 840 pounds of plastic from the Fond du Lac Yacht Club. The Outagamie County recycling plant is giving the Lions Camp seven cents per pound. Although the efforts of Clausen and Colton only gained the camp just under $60, Clausen stated the real reason for this project was to keep all that plastic from the landfill, which, environment, is one of the major Lions projects.

VALDERS LIONS CLUB – The annual Easter egg hunt for the kids was held at the Village Park. 115 kids braved the misty weather to meet the Easter Bunny and find eggs with candy. Pictured are the helpers to pack the eggs. A group of Lions, non-Lions, friends, Girl Scouts and high school kids packed 1,500 eggs for the kids to find. Also a picture of the kids meeting the Easter bunny.

SHERWOOD LIONS CLUB – New Lions were inducted by PDG Fred Gebhart. Pictured top: Brian Buss, Mary Nechodom, Matt Wilber, Geri Younger, and PDG Fred Gebhart. Pictured bottom: Sean Becker (center) was sworn in by PDG Fred Gebhart. He is shown here with his sponsor Lion Tom Jack.

VAN DYNE LIONS CLUB – The Club welcomed two new members. Pictured top: President Tom Wendt (in both), Lion Sharon Hoepfner and sponsor 1st VDGE Roxanne Wendt, Membership Chair Lion Judie Belk (in both). Pictured middle: Lion Tim Leichtfuss and sponsor 2nd VDGE Barb Leichtfuss. Van Dyne and Markesan Grand River Lions went to Restoring Hope in Madison and fixed things and cleaned up on a Saturday. Van Dyne also bought them a new vacuum cleaner.

APPLETON EVENING AND APPLETON NOON LIONS CLUBS –At the recent unveiling at Lions Park of the new Lion bubbler donated by Lion Mary Beth Nienhaus. Lions pictured: Sue Lee, PDG Dave Lee, Mary Beth Nienhaus, Sue Jungen, Jim Christman, Barb Hiler, Ron Mohr and Mary Jo Mohr.

Wayside Morrison Lions Club

Music in the Park 2024

Band Performances: 6-8pm, WayMorr Lions Club property at the Brown County WayMorr Park, Greenleaf

June 12 – Rob Burkham & Just Happy to be Here Band

June 26 – Eddie Larson & Classic

Memories Band

July 10 – Homemade Brew

July 24 – Biscuit Creek Band

August 7 – Red Star Express Band

August 21 – Bent Grass

• Lawn chairs are welcomed for attendees.

• Music, food, drinks & free ice cream.

• Collection for used eyeglasses, used hearing aids, new/unused hearing aid batteries, old cell phones, and non-perishable food items.

• Brown County Bookmobile on-site.

27B1 Lions District Convention

November 8-9, 2024

• Radisson Hotel and Convention Center, Fond du Lac

• Theme chosen by DG Dave Holschbach: Back to Your Roots. Consider that we are who we are today (Faithful Lions) because of where our roots were planted. Your roots affect your life now because they help us remember what is valuable! They also affect our future because they help us to determine what paths to take in life and what we want to achieve. They inspire us to SERVE.

• Our guest will be International Director Judge Anthony Paradiso from Rockville Center, New York. He worked hard to achieve his career both as a judge and as a committed Lion member (since 1996). Because he got help accomplishing his goals (scholarships, etc.) he decided to give back to the community through his Lions service. His roots are firmly planted in good soil!

Send your District Calendar additions to lionsof27b1@gmail.com

BUTTE DES MORTS LIONS CLUB –Wisconsin Lion –27-B1 Zone Chair

Sue Lee presents Lion Irv Korth his 50 Year Charter Chevron. Lion Irv is a charter member of both the Larsen-Winchester Lions and the Butte des Morts Lions.

OAKFIELD LIONS CLUB – Lions’ members Ed Smith and Al Messner presented Hunter Sabel a $1,000 Scholarship and Alyssa Laning a $1,500 Scholarship from the American Red Cross, and $700 Lions Scholarships to Marissa Kottke, Justin Marschie, Ella Meyer, Bailey Shepp and Savannah Tapp. The Club raised money for the Lions Scholarships by holding a money raffle and was granted the Red Cross Scholarship money for collecting 201 pints of blood at blood drives during the year. Over the past 15 years the Club has given out $20,950 in Lions Scholarships and $16,750 in Red Cross Scholarships.

PICKETT LIONS CLUB – The Club recently received a generous donation from the Oshkosh Celebration of Lights. Some of our members volunteer to help with set up and take down for the holiday display. Pictured are Lions John Murray, Pati Theabo, Bob Cartwright, Kay Murray, Norm Reichenberger, Nancy Reichenberger, and George Londos. In March, Past District Governor Dave Brinkman visited the meeting and presented the Club Excellence Award to the Club. He is pictured with Vice President Todd Messerschmidt Pickett President Pati Theabo presented 15-year membership pins to Lions Chad Lisowe, Dre Bruss, and Todd Messerschmidt. Not pictured were Lions Joan Hielke and Samantha Rivers

ALWAYS THERE FOR YOU

Welcome to another Lions year. I would like to introduce myself to all the WONDERFUL Lions of 27B1. My name is Dave Holschbach, I have been a member of the Mishicot Lions for 30 years and an associate member of the Manitowoc/Two Rivers Lions. Both are different and unique Clubs as many of our Clubs are. 1st Vice District Governor Roxanne Wendt, 2nd Vice District Governor Barb Leichtfuss and myself look forward to meeting all of you.

B1 has demonstrated to the other Lions of Wisconsin how aggressive and outstanding we are. Lets continue this………..B the LEADER. There are many challenges we face as Lions. We have built an AWESOME team this year to SERVE you and to guide your Club to be successful.

My theme throughout my years has always been “ALWAYS THERE for YOU,” As I look back through my many years as a Club Officer, Zone Chair, District Cabinet Secretary/Treasurer, Cabinet Chair, GLT, District Trainer and Vice District Governor, I always made sure I had time for any Lion who had a question or problem. If I did not know, I made sure I got an answer or a connection. Working 50+ hours, I remained behind the scenes, this was my way of contributing to Lions. Now is the time for me to step forward to lead and guide the Lions of 27B1.

My early focus will be to get a STRONG marketing program for our district. We lag behind in the usage of our Facebook page. Clubs need to let everyone know the FANTASTIC things we do………. BEFORE…DURING…AFTER. With the use of cellphones more and more common, TAKE SOME PICTURES! More to follow as we develop. Log into facebook.com/MD27B1 and LIKE to see what you are missing and to find out what is going on. Log into lions B1.org for our website. Looking forward to meeting all of you. District Convention November 8-9 in Fond du Lac.

CHILTON LIONS CLUB – Lion Derek McDermott (left) assists Ron Kolbe as he selects the winning numbers in the annual Community Cares Fundraiser. Ron and his wife, Sandy, started the Matt Kolbe Memorial Foundation in memory of their son, and are constructing an inclusion-friendly playground in Chilton.

27-B1

27-B2 NEWS

BELLEVUE LIONS CLUB – This year’s Community Picnic at Josten Park was a fantastic success, bringing together friends and family for a memorable day of fun and community spirit. Families enjoyed a range of activities, including a silent auction, bucket raffle, the balloon guy, and bounce houses were set up for the little ones were a hit.

WABENO LIONS CLUB – Lion Carla VanCamp presented a $1,000 check to Scott Wycherley from the Christian Food Pantry. Each month the Christian Food Pantry serves an average of 85 families. The pantry is supported by cash and food donations. There are approximately 50 volunteer church and community helpers. If you want to be a part of this team or have any questions, contact Scott Wycherley at (715) 850-0768.

WABENO LIONS CLUB – On April 24, Lion Trink Piontek presented a $500 check to Lion Dan Edelbeck, representative of the Rebel Bird Busters, the Wabeno - Laona youth trap shooting team. Questions? Email danedlebeck@yahoo.com or cell (715)889-2821.

WABENO AND MCCASLIN LIONS

CLUBS – Lions presented plaques at the 70th Wabeno High School

Senior Banquet. Pictured are: (top) Lion Greg Tallier, Lion Paul Newton, Lauren Harris-Lion Terry J Beining Volunteer Award

Recipient, Brittany Schaefer-Guest Speaker, Lion Al Harrison-Banquet Chairman. (center) Wabeno High School Class of 2024. (bottom) Master of Ceremonies- Lion Greg Tallier.

GREENVILLE LIONS CLUB –Presentation for Parade of Checks; Lion President Mike Handed out $14,900 to local organizations. Lion President Mike Davis is Pictured with Chief Lambie of the Greenville Fire Department.

WABENO LIONS CLUB – On Monday, April 15, 2024, 16 Lions and 13 honor students and their families were present at the 47th Annual Student Honors Banquet. District Administrator Bill Taylor and five school board members were also present.

GRESHAM LIONS CLUB – A special shout out and thank you from Mary Herman, Sue Vomastic, Sharon Laes and Gary Traeger to Lion Tim Bosman, Terry, Tucker Bosman for installing in a wheelchair ramp for their father! Working in the heat, and then the rain to get this finished. You guys did a fantastic job, it looks great! Will be so much easier for Dad to get in and out of the house now!

WABENO LIONS CLUB – A $1,000 check was presented to Lion Larry Rummel to assist the ongoing school house restoration project. Larry, Tim, and Dick, the members of a group called “The Man Cave”, are taking on the job of restoring the historic first Wabeno school house.

PESHTIGO LIONS CLUB – Lions collected garbage throughout the Peshtigo area for the first time this year on April 24th to commemorate Earth Day 2024. Participants were: Donn & Anita Morois, Jim Doemel, Terry Gardon, Dan Peterson, Steve Peterich, Dale Edlbeck, Peter Fritz, Jerry Bruette, Jim Tress, Rhonda & Paul McClain, Tom Gryzwa, and Steve Schuelke

GOODMAN ARMSTRONG

(GAC) LIONS CLUB – The Club welcomed two new members on April 25th at Ed’s on Main in Argonne. Lions DG Shirley Dahlke inducted Tammy Thomas and Glenn Costie who were sponsored by GAC Lion Dennis Engel (top). Also recognized during the meeting were the originating members of the GAC Lions Club which was chartered in April, 1987. Kevin Rocque, Oscar Anderson, Wayne Brehmer, Bob Nelson, Lee Schauman (bottom).

GOODMAN ARMSTRONG CREEK LIONS CLUB – The Club hosted a free Pancake and Porkie breakfast on March 24th as part of the Third Annual Sappy Days celebration with pancakes and maple porkies topped with rivers of maple syrup donated by Fred Hedmark, owner of Hedmark’s Maple Ridge. Diners were also able to shop for local goods at the Sappy Days Market.

CREEK

B2 Conference News

SUBMITTED BY PCC GERI SCHLENDER, CONFERENCE CHAIR

Lions from District 27-B2 and beyond fire up the old VW and join us for this year’s District Conference. The Conference Team invites you to hear from Lion Leaders, learn from fellow Lions, reconnect with old friends and make some new ones, too. All this takes place on November 1 & 2nd in Keshena, WI, at the Menominee Casino Resort.

Friday begins with Vision Screening Training/Certification. It continues with our evening Hospitality. The theme is Beatniks and Bellbottoms, with a DJ playing the oldies but goodies.

Saturday features great seminars. Come learn about Dillon’s Law. Find out about the biggest event coming to Lambeau Field? THE NFL DRAFT!! Brad Toll of Discover Green Bay will fill us in on the happenings and opportunities that the Draft will bring to our area. And we have planned much more.

DENMARK LIONS CLUB – Grateful for good weather on April 6th during their annual sale. Wide selection of items- thanks for all who came and for the many who went away with a treasure.

WABENO AND MCCASLIN LIONS CLUBS – Each year, Lions help support the Wabeno Elementary Book Fair. Lion Cheryl Ehlinger presented a $1,500 check to Reading Specialist Laurie Christianson for the Book Fair. This event is held annually for 4-K through 5th graders.

GREENVILLE LIONS CLUB –

Congratulations to three seniors receiving our $1,500 general scholarships: Kate Hutchinson, Hortonville High School; Rhianna Reichenbacher, St. Mary's Catholic High School; and Lauren Fischer, St. Mary's Catholic High School. Three $750 scholarships for Fox Valley Technical College were awarded to: Joey Kloes, Shayd Bucklin, and Alan Seeger all from Hortonville High School.

MARION LIONS CLUB – Lion Ron Krueger presents a check for $500 to Bill Wiesmann from the Pella Fire Department. Krueger also presented a check for $500 to John Henselin from the Town of Grant Fire Department.

FROM THE 27-B2 DISTRICT GOVERNOR MAE ENZ 920-373-4772 lionmae27b2@gmail.com