Hello Fellow Lions

I want to say “Thank You” to those who have agreed to work on a committee, hold a position on the cabinet and to those who have agreed to NOT block my phone number, you know who you are!!     Thank you to those clubs that I visited in past few weeks, you are amazing.  I have enjoyed getting to know all of you better.  I am so excited about the opportunities that a new year brings.

We have some exciting events coming up in the next couple of months.  There is the USA/Canada Forum in September in Tampa Florida, the Roanoke trip for eyeglass recycling, Lions Learning Retreat, White Cane in October and Diabetes month in November.  To some of you, you may look at this list and see work.  I look at this list and see opportunities to be of service to our fellow friends, neighbors and those in need.  Our motto is “We Serve”.  Are you serving your community?  Are you meeting those needs around you?  Are you as active as you used to be?  You can change that by just giving me a call.  I have a long list of things to do.  More hands make for a lighter load.  Call me soon.

I would like to challenge ALL Lions in District 12-N to support the Reading Action Program with me.  My challenge to you is this:  For every member you have in your club; donate at least 1 book to the literacy cause.   Reading is something that we take for granted because we know how to read.  There are over 21 million people in the United States alone that cannot read.  Just to make my point, have you ever tried to read a foreign language?  That is what it is like not to be able to read.  So please accept my challenge and donate 1 book for every member in you club.  My goal is to have 1250 books by the time District Convention comes in February 2013.  Why 1250 books you ask?  I’m glad you asked. 

1250 is significant in many ways but there is one that we need help with most of all.  Those of you who know me know that I mean membership.  We need help.  Our burden as Lions gets heavier because there are fewer Lions to “Serve”.  Who do you know that would make a great Lion? 

As the month of September is upon us please ask yourself, “What have I done lately to promote the motto “We Serve”?

I have also included in this month’s News and Views some photos of clubs that I have visited in August.  Don’t worry if your club isn’t there you will be.

Thanks for all you do.

District Governor Diane Wilkerson