Opportunities for Growth!

Lion Jayne and I just returned from three wonderful days at the Coffee County Convention Center attending the 2014 Tennessee Lions Learning Retreat. What a great experience! We were able to spend time with Lion friends from across the state; attend a number of very educational seminars and hear outstanding motivational presentations from Past International President Sid Scruggs, Immediate Past International Director Bob Corlew and Past South Carolina Council Chairperson Matt Jones.

I am very proud to report that a total of 23 Lions from 12 different Clubs in District 12-N attended this special event. Four members attended from our newest club, the ETSU Campus Lions Club.  I hope, in the future, that even more Lions from our district will attend this retreat.

Attending special events allows you to grow as a Lion and to gain a better understanding and appreciation of our association.

Please remember that our District Convention will be held on Friday and Saturday, February 21 and 22 at the Best Western-Plus in Morristown. Details are in the previous News & Views. Immediate Past International Director and Candidate for Second Vice International President Bob Corlew and his wife, Dianne, will be giving presentations on Saturday morning. International Director Stephen Glass from West Virginia will be our luncheon speaker on Saturday.

Club Secretaries should send the names of approved delegates and alternate delegates to Credentials Checker PDG John Kelsey, 439 Hicks Lane, Clinton, TN 37716-2703 or kelseyj4@yahoo.com. One vote provided for every ten members with rounding up for 5 or more.

The Tennessee State Convention will be held at the Hilton Hotel in Memphis, April 24-27.  This is an opportunity to meet Lions from across our state. The event will include motivational speakers, educational seminars and some great entertainers. Details will soon be distributed by Cabinet Secretary Edna Longwell to all Club Secretaries.

The Lions Clubs International Convention will be held in Toronto, Canada, July 4-8. This is an opportunity to meet Lions from throughout the world and to participate in an international parade. There will also be lots of educational seminars. The International Show will feature singer Neil Sedaka.

Toronto is considered to be one of the most dynamic, culturally diverse and vibrant cities in the world. It is situated on beautiful Lake Ontario and is infused with arts, culture, stunning architecture and a friendly atmosphere. Attendees will be able to take a day trip to Niagara Falls. And you can vote for Lion Bob! Contact Lion Jayne Raparelli for more convention details at 423-871-1739.

The USA/Canada Lions Leadership Forum will be held in San Juan, Puerto Rico, September 11-13. This is an opportunity to be part of a wonderful learning event. From its beautiful beaches and majestic rainforests to its cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture, Puerto Rico will leave a lasting impression. For details and registration: go to  www.lionsforum.org.

These are special events offering a chance for personal growth. These are important benefits of being a Lion. Take advantage of these opportunities. When the going gets tough, the tough get going. Let’s get going and grow.

DG MIKE