Lions of SW Idaho and E Oregon

 Early April I traveled to Rupert for their charter party, celebrating almost 80 years of service. No snow on the fields this trip to the eastern edge of our district-fields were green where they had been white when I visited Burley and Declo just a few weeks before. Speaking of Declo, several of the Declo Lions attended this party and cleaned up on raffle prizes. But with two tables over flowing, there were plenty for everyone. Although they needed a truck to haul everything home.  I really love seeing clubs visiting and helping out other clubs. Lion Zone Chair Peggy had already received a challenge coin (as zone chair) and had passed it on to her hubby Jesse. Club president Jesse nominated his brother Gaylan and Mary and George Brisbin for coins for everything they do for the club and community.  This club is so busy! 

 True to form, the Nampa Lions had a smallish meeting when I visited last week. They always tell me, oh, we had 25 at our last meeting…Luck of the draw. Anyway, it was nice to see old friends and meet a couple of new people and give some challenge coins. They also had an interesting speaker. Congrats to Lions Del, pin trader extraordinare, Randy, club president for the past couple of years, Allan, club money man, Tim, secretary and district cabinet member, and Dana (Leos) and Robbie (eye exams and glasses). Missed seeing Dana and Robbie-maybe next time!

 The Council Lions, are super active in their community. Their main fundraiser is breakfast in August at the music festival and a raffle that culminates at the same time. They do vision screenings in the schools, provide a scholarship to a high school student, host the Easter egg hunt and participate in other community activities.  I was impressed with the efficient meeting led by President Jim with participation from the group.  One new member joined; his second time to attend a meeting. And two other guests were there that I hope to see join soon.  It was a beautiful evening for the drive to Council. The club meets at the American Legion building. All the Lions banners, plaques, photos, etc. adorn the walls.  President Jim selected Scott, current and long-time secretary to receive a challenge coin. I thought Pres. Jim should have a challenge coin, too. He’s continuing for another year in that office.  (We’re a little fuzzy; it’s not you.)

 I attended the Boise Vista Lions Club meeting last night. They met at the Envision office and brought in some pizza and chocolate cake. They’re looking for a new restaurant meeting spot, but will be at Envision until they do.  Several members received challenge coins. These were all Lions that I knew - so definitely the Lions serving out in front in the club. First up PDG Laura. She sends out a newsletter after every meeting, keeps up with the secretary duties, and participates in projects. Lion Mary Rockrohr chairs the casinos and gets everyone working hard. She’s a great organizer and how about that hat? Lion Ray Hansen has been a Lion since 1969 and has pretty much done it all for the club at one time or another. He’s still an active member.  Two more Lions received challenge coins, but they are still wintering in Florida. Theirs will have to wait until next month.  And why Boise Boise Vista? That is how the club is listed in LCI. I think they must have wanted to be listed first al

 Perhaps you landed here from the newsletter link. Perhaps not. At any rate, here are two additions/corrections. The first link for the first aid kits for Camp Hodia did not work. These things happen. Here’s the link. Just a bit late for inclusion is this information from Eagle 616: Mental health issues are rising. Most of us will do all that we can to help our friends and family get through their darkest times. However, sometimes our family or friends lose hope. They don’t want to live any more. They think they can end the pain by taking their life. How can we help them in this dark time? what are some warning signs? This 2 hour conference will help give you some skills on what to do if you find yourself in that situation. These tools could help save someone’s life. If you would like to learn more please contact the Eagle 616 Lions Club.  Thanks for understanding the human element.

 After several phone conversations with Declo president Clint and secretary Mike, I was able to join them Saturday night for their charter party. I was made to feel welcome before I even got through the door and those guys are some really good cooks!  Several Rupert Lions were there along with Twin Falls president Nickie. I didn’t count Lions, but the room was full with Lions and spouses and everyone was having a good time. I inducted four new Lions and gave out chevrons to several Lions for their years of service. This new member missed the party. Clint thought we could photoshop him in later. After the new member inductions, I gave out a few challenge coins. Clint wanted to honor a few of the “more experienced” Lions who have been serving for a few decades as well as a couple of more recent additions. So this group of five Lions received coins for their Service from the Heart.  This was a fantastic trip to Burley and Declo. Two clubs doing tons of service their way.