District 5M9 Convention Booklet Mid-Winter January 2023 District Governor Scott Rolfe
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District 5M9
Convention Booklet
Mid-Winter January 2023
Cabinet meeting: January 6th, 2023
Business Meeting: January 7th, 2023
Reconvene Business Meeting: January 8th, 2023
Cragun’s Resort
Brainerd, MN
District Governor Scott Rolfe
Table of Contents
Convention Cabinet Meeting Agenda ....................................................................................... 4
5M9 Cabinet Meeting Minutes (October 23rd, 2022) ........................................................................ 5
2023 5M9 Convention Business Meeting Agenda .............................................................................. 17
5M9 District Treasurer’s Report ............................................................................................... 20
Zone Chair Reports ........................................................................................................................ 22
Zone Chair Advisor – PCC Bert Nelson.................................................................................................. 22
Zone 1 Chair- Lion Joe Laudenbach...................................................................................................... 22
Zone 2 Chair – Lion Sharon Whipple...................................................................................................... 23
Zone 3 Chair – Lion Sue Larson ............................................................................................................. 23
Zone 4 Chair – Lion Laurie Kommer...................................................................................................... 23
Zone 5 Chair – Lion Cathe Picek. …..…................................................................................................. 23
Zone 6 Chair – Vacant …………............................................................................................................ 23
Zone 7 Co-Chairs –Lions Jake and Debbie Jacoby................................................................................. 23
Zone 8 Chair – Lion Ginny Paulson ....................................................................................................... 24
Zone 9 Chair – Lion Connie Krusemark................................................................................................. 24
Committee and Project Chair Reports .................................................................................... 25
Can Do Canines – Lions Sheri Greenwaldt and Art Schmidt ................................................................ 25
Communications Team: PR/Newsletter – Lion Sue Stebbins ................................................................ 26
Communications Team: Technology/Website – Lion Burke Almquist.................................................. 26
Constitution & Bylaws – PDG Jay Norby .............................................................................................. 26
Conventions & Forums – IPDG Jamie Huttunen ................................................................................... 27
District Administrator – PDG Margaret Van Erp .................................................................................. 28
District Chaplain – Lion Jim McGaffey.................................................................................................. 29
District GMA Champion- PDG Jay Norby............................................................................................. 29
District Governor Contest – PDG Margaret Van Erp ............................................................................. 30
District Historian – PDG Judy Brasgalla................................................................................................. 31
District Service Project- 2nd VDG Denise Laudenbach and Lion Shawn Hanson................................... 31
Environmental – PDG Rose Puckett ....................................................................................................... 31
Eyes for Mexico- Lion Dr. Armand Radke.............................................................................................. 32
Global Leadership Team Coordinator – PCC Bert Nelson...................................................................... 32
Global Membership Team Coordinator – Lion Diann Bates .................................................................. 32
Global Service Team Coordinator – IPDG Jamie Huttunen.................................................................... 32
Kamp KACE/MN Lions Childhood Cancer Foundation – PDG Linda Albrecht-Norby &
Lion Cora Hohnstadt ............................................................................................................................... 33
LCIF – Lions Larry & Zelda Novak and Erin Beck……........................................................................ 34
Leader Dogs – Lions Paul Roth and Scott Hauge ................................................................................... 35
Leo Clubs – Lions Yvonne Huttunen & Anna Tharaldson ..................................................................... 35
MD5M Lions KidSight Foundation – PDG Sandy Remington & Lion Joe Juettner............................... 36
Memorial Service – Lion Jim Johansen .................................................................................................. 36
Mid-Winter Convention 2023 – Lion Cathe Picek ................................................................................. 37
Mid-Winter Convention 2024- PDG Jay Norby...................................................................................... 38
Mid-Winter Convention 2025- Lion Shawn Hanson............................................................................... 38
Minnesota Lions Diabetes Foundation – Lions Angie Hauge and Carl Bates……................................. 39
Minnesota Lions Hearing Foundation – Lions Michele Plagman & Laurie Kommer............................. 39
Minnesota Lions Vision Foundation – PDG Jim Arvidson and Lion Don Mork .................................... 40
Page | 2
New Club Development – PCC Bert Nelson .......................................................................................... 40
Project New Hope – PDG Dick Labraaten & Lion Sean Abernathy ...................................................... 40
Special Olympics- PDG Les Swift........................................................................................................... 41
Youth Exchange/Youth Camp – Lions Jean Driscoll & Jenny Crider..................................................... 41
Youth Outreach/Scholarships/Poster Contest – Lions Evie Ladd and Mike Kern .................................. 42
2022 5M9 Convention Business Meeting Minutes ...............................................................................43
2023 5M9 Convention Sunday Reconvene Brunch Agenda ................................................................51
2022 5M9 Convention Sunday Reconvene Brunch Meeting Minutes ................................................52
Page | 3
CABINET MEETING
January 6th, 2023
2:15 pm
AGENDA
Call to Order – District Governor Scott Rolfe
1. Pledge of Allegiance – 1st VDG Richard Hanson
2. Invocation – Pastor Jim McGaffey
3. Opening Comments/Introduction of Guests – DG Scott Rolfe
Housekeeping
1. Bathrooms- Outside the door
2. Tail Twisting rules for convention – PDG Dale Johansen and Friends
Approval of Agenda for January 6th, 2023, Cabinet Meeting
Approval of Minutes from October 23rd, 2022, Cabinet meeting
Treasurer’s Report – PDG Linda Albrecht-Norby
Old Business:
1. Zone Chair Vacancy (Zone 6)
2. Grant Updates – DG Scott Rolfe
New Business:
1. Team Sheehan Charitable Foundation
Closing Comments
• 2nd VDG Denise Laudenbach
• 1stVDG Richard Hanson
• DG Scott Rolfe
• ID Allen Snider
•
Next Cabinet meeting, March 12th @ 2:00 pm at Brainerd Eagles Club, 124 front St Brainerd
Adjourn
Page | 4
5M9 Cabinet Meeting
Sunday, October 23rd, 2022
Backus American Legion
Backus, MN
Minutes of the Meeting
Cabinet Members Present were as follows: DG Scot Rolfe, 1st VDG Richard Hanson, 2nd VDG Denise
Laudenbach, Cabinet Secretary Lion Sheri Greenwaldt, Cabinet Treasure PDG Linda Albrect-Norby, District
Administrator, PDG Margaret VanErp, PCC Bert Nelson, IPDG Jamie Huttunen, PDG Dick Labraaten, PDG
Jay Norby, PDG Rose Puckett, PDG Sandy Remington, PDG Les Swift, ZC Lion Joe Laudenbach, ZC Lion Sue
Larson, ZC Lion Cathe Picek, ZC Lion Jake Jacoby, ZC Lion Debbie Jacoby, ZC Lion Ginny Paulson, ZC Lion
Connie Krusemark, Lions Burke Almquist, Diann Bates, Carl Bates, Erin Beck, Angie Hauge, Scott Hauge,
Cora Hohnstadt, Yvonne Huttunen, Joe Juettner, Laurie Kommer, Evie Ladd, Sue Stebbins.
Guests were as follows: PID Bruce Beck, PDG Dick Stebbens, PDG Peter VanErp, Lions Vernon Greenwaldt,
Diane Hanson, Donna Mulholland, Pam Nelson.
Cabinet Members that were absent are as follows: PDGs Jim Arvidson, Judy Brasgalla, Dale Johansen, ZC
Lion Sharon Whipple, Lions Sean Abernathy, Jenny Crider, Jean Driscoll, Shawn Hanson, Jim Johansen, Mike
Kern, Don Mork, Larry Novak, Zelda Novak, Michele Plagman, Dr. Armand Radke, Paul Roth, Art Schmidt,
Anna Tharaldson.
Meeting was called to Order at 2 pm by DG Scott Rolfe
Call to Order – District Governor Scott Rolfe
1. Pledge of Allegiance – 1st VDG Richard Hanson
2. Invocation – 2nd VDG Denise Laudenbach
3. Opening Comments/Introduction of Guests – DG Scott Rolfe
Thank you, Backus, for hosting.
Introduction of PDG’s, PID, PCC. 1st VDG, 2nd VDG. GMT, GST, GLT, GMA.
DG Scott discussed how we all need to work together, together we can. Zone fairs are all done. DG
Scott asked the cabinet members/project chairs to do a better job RSVPing. When going to a zone fair,
make sure we RSVP! 1 zone fair had food catered in and food was messed up. Please RSVP if planning
to go somewhere no matter if it is a district sponsored event or not. If you want to speak at zone
meetings or fairs, make sure you let the zone chair know.
4. Council of Governors- DG Scott Rolfe
Interesting meeting, a lot was accomplished.
1. Approved at COG, TEAM Sheehan Charitable Foundation to add it to the list of service
activities in Appendix 34.0 of the Policy Manual. This foundation was stared at the request of
International President Brian. The foundation’s mission is to help local Lions Clubs fund
projects and activities with matching grants; at least initially of $3,000 or less. These
Page | 5
activities are usually too small to be considered for LCIF grants. One of the foundations
goals is to build sufficient funds to use earnings only to purchase awards, such as medals or
pins, as acknowledgements of contributions. The foundation is hoping that this foundation
will be added to Clubs parade of green at midwinter conventions. Due to IRS regulations the
foundation must take in less than $50,000 a year during its first 3 years and the foundations
first year ended June 30th, 2022. The foundation is looking for an average of $4,000 per
district, or less than $100 per club. This is something to look at going forward.
2. DG Scott shared that Multiple districts can be redistricted if there are districts who are failing
with not as many clubs or members. Redistricting includes possibly moving some of our
district to help other districts get stronger. He shared that redistricting was talked about and
put to rest. It will be another 2-3 years before this is looked at again.
3. MD5M Directory- come up at the next COG. It is in committee to get legal verbiage right so
this won’t be an issue again.
4. We are asked to put 2 more positions in district. GET (Global Extension Team), and
Marketing coordinator.
5. Endorsed candidate for 3rd IVP, PID Lion Mark Lyon.
5. Lion Brian Sheehan Directors Meeting- PDG Jay Norby and PCC Bert Nelson
1. This was a great opportunity MD5M to host the Lions International Board Meeting. The
Opening board meeting was held on October 3rd. It was a wonderful experience, and it was
neat to see the train that PDG Jay and PDG Linda worked hard on. They both did a great job
with the train. The host night event was on October 4th, and it was an Oktoberfest theme. We
blew the socks off of all board members and LCI chairs. Everyone had a good time. The
souvenir program book was great. When the board went to Duluth, they had team building
events and did service as well. They all learned a lot and enjoyed our hospitality. Thank you
for those who bought an add from the book. It was mentioned that the international directors
were amazed at what all MD5M did, and LCI will use our template for future international
board meetings. Perham is known for Kenny’s candy and there was a lot of licorice donated
and many people were coming in to get more Australian licorice. They enjoyed it.
2. A Thank you letter from IP Brian and Lori was shared: They said on behalf of TEAM
Sheehan, they extended a heart-felt thank you for your donation and help in making the event
a huge success. Your generous contribution helped make our vision a reality.
The Souvenir Program book will be handed out to over 600 lions and guests to take howe
with them to all parts of MN, NW Ontario, Manitoba and worldwide.
As we continue to grow as an organization, please know that partnerships with our sponsors
are vital to the success of Lions. You are truly appreciated. Thank you again,
Thank you for your support,
Sincerely
Brian and Lori Sheehan
6. DG Scott went to the Vision foundation luncheon held in the cities- He shared that the Life source CEO
stepped down after over 30 years. The new CEO doesn’t want to work with corneas anymore. Life
source has been working with the Lions to make the transition back to the MN Lions eye bank. The
contract up in March 2023. Susan M Larson, who is a chief strategy officer with Life source had IP
Brian induct her as a member of lions. Overall, a good thing came out of a lot of struggles. We are better
together than apart.
Page | 67. We have secured a person for diabetes chair with Lion Angie Hauge, Lion Carl Bates will take this on!
8. Lion Laurie Kommer has stepped up to be Zone 4 chair.
Housekeeping
1. Bathrooms- Back of the room
2. Tail Twisting rules – PDG Jay Norby
A. Rule #1, the tail twister is always right.
B. When tail twister is wrong see rule #1.
Approval of Agenda for October 23rd, 2022, Cabinet Meeting with the addition of giving out a couple of
awards at the end of the meeting. Lion Sue Stebbins, Baxter Lions made the motion to accept the agenda with
additions. Lion Ginny Paulson, Riverside Fergus Falls Lions 2nd the motion. There were no questions,
corrections or any further additions to the printed agenda. Motion carried.
Approval of Minutes from July 31st, 2022, Cabinet meeting. PDG Sandy Remingtion, Backus Lions made the
motion to accept the minutes as printed. Lion Diann Bates, Aitkin Lions 2nd the motion. There were no
questions, corrections, or additions to the printed minutes. Motion carried.
Treasurer’s Report –Reports in the book. Last year’s treasure accounting for 2021-2022, PDG Linda is
looking for a couple cabinet members to do the audit. Lion Cora Hohnstadt and Lion Joe Laudenbach
volunteered to do the audit. PDG Linda will send them the information. A motion to accept the treasure report
was made, subject to audit, by IPDG Jamie Huttunen, Bluffton Lions, Lion Laurie Kommer, Vergas, 2nd the
motion. There were no further questions, corrections or discussion. Motion carried.
Old Business:
1. District Video Camera / Owl Update PDG Jay Norby
PDG Jay is working with a video camera to see how it is working with plugging into computer. He has
found out that the Owl is expensive. At this time, he is tabling until he finds something that will work
for our district.
2. Grant Updates – DG Scott Rolfe
1. Membership development grant. Diann applied for this grant and we did get $1,000 approval.
2. Burt applied for a grant, $500- leadership development grant. We did get that grant.
New Business:
1. Renaming of New Club Development Team to Global Extension Team (GET)
- At multiple COG meeting it was voted on to add the GET to the multiple district. And they
discussed adding a marketing chair for district. The positions are in the international bylaws. The
positions are not mandatory for a district. We, as a district, can move it to policy manual. When GET
is made as a mandatory position, it can be brought to midwinter for a vote. 3 districts in our multiple
have new club development teams. Trying to get all 12 districts to have a GET team. Other districts
Page | 7in our multiple, 5M1 and 5M2, have an extensive GET team, and they are seeing wonderful numbers
of growth. With having the GAT and GET team it will help numbers and service increase in 5m9.
- GAT team met and discussed it and will change the name from new club development to GET, we
don’t need a budget, PCC Bert was club development and now will be GET.
2. Zone Chair Vacancies
Still looking for zone 6 chair. If you want to be a zone chair, let DG Scott or PCC Bert know. The
future zone chair will have help and won’t be on their own.
3. Camp Confidence Learning Center
DG Scott has heard discussion in the past regarding Camp Confidence Learning Center and, he doesn’t
want to decide on allowing Jerry Wohlers come to the midwinter convention. He wants to hear what the
cabinet thinks. Jerry Wohlers wants to come to our convention and have a booth. This is the actual camp
and not regarding the New East Gull Lake Camp Confidence Lions Club. Jerry is asking to be on the
parade of green and wants a booth. He is at a lot of other 5M district midwinter conventions.
Things discussed within the cabinet regarding Camp Confidence:
1. It was asked if having Jerry Wohlers at midwinter conventions was approved at the COG?
2. We don’t ask other businesses to come to the Midwinter convention.
3. It was brought up that Camp Confidence is in our district; they do a lot for our community and
state.
4. It was mentioned that Camp Confidence Learning Center is not one of our projects, he took
gambling away from Baxter Lions.
5. A lot of other districts have Jerry and Camp Confidence as a project, but we don’t have a parade
of green like other districts.
6. We still have time to decide, if anyone else has anything to say either way, please email DG
Scott.
4. Grant Application – 2nd VDG Denise Laudenbach
DG Scott had a goal to have a district picnic at the end of his year. It was just an idea and a goal, he
tasked 2nd VDG Denise with working on this goal. He has seen how teamwork does work. 2nd VDG
Denise ran with this goal and has done an awesome job. The Nisswa Lions is hosting the event. The
event will be Sept 9th, 2023.
2nd VDG Denise has a commitment from her club for $12,000 to go towards this picnic. She has applied
for a grant from LCIF (Community Impact Grant) as a cabinet. The service part of this event will be to
feed those in need. 2nd VDG Denise went to her club to ask them to donate money to get the event
going. The $12,000 will go towards packing food through the Outreach program. The food that is pack
will go to food shelves in the communities of the Lions who are at the packing event. Nisswa Lions have
never done a pancake breakfast so the picnic will be a breakfast picnic. The Nisswa FD will collaborate
and help with cooking food. The event will be both a service project, and breakfast. 2nd VDG Denise
looked online to find out what the data on food security is and found that there are food security issues
across all of the counties in our district. Hunger is one of our 5 pillars. She is asking for $25,000 grant.
We will be able to pack 133,000 meals to give back to our communities! Clubs in attendance will take
food back to communities for the food shelf. A lot more to come. The Grant needs approval Need
approval. Lion Angie Hauge Riverside Fergus Falls Lions, Made the motion to apply for the Community
Page | 8Impact Grant in the amount of $25,000. PDG Sandy Remington, Backus Lions 2nd the motion. There
were no further questions, corrections, or additions to the printed minutes. Motion carried.
5. Letters of Intent
Letters submitted to DG Scott Rolfe:
a. DG- Application and letter of intent
1. Richard Hanson
st
b. 1 VDG- application and letter of intent
1. Denise Laudenbach
nd
c. 2 VDG- Application and letter of intent
1. Cathe Picek
a. There is a signed letter from review committee that Cathe is approved.
b. Correction to the letter- Cathe is named Rose Cathe Picek, but it should be Cathe Picek.
Zone Reports:
1. Zone Chair Advisor – PCC Bert Nelson
Report is in the book- PCC Bert would love to get the last seat filled, zone 6. He needs assistance from
those who are from zone 6 to find a zone chair. Lion Laurie Kommer stepped up to fill zone 4.
2. Zone 1 Chair – Lion Joe Laudenbach
Report is in the book. Lion Joe has done 3 club visits so far, he has one scheduled for Monday, and 2 for
November. The zone 1 meeting will be November 15th and the Brainerd Lions are hosting it at the
Legion. Food will be $15 chicken dinner.
Lion Joe is working with clubs on the GMA process. One of the clubs wants PDG Jay to come visit. The
club is stagnating on membership and wants help. Lion Joe has talked to his clubs about zone wide
service projects. They are going to work together on a diaper drive, and diabetes packets. Several clubs
took the diabetes kits.
3. Zone 2 Chair – Lion Sharon Whipple
No report, not present and Cathe Picek is stepping in with a report. The Fall zone 2 meeting will be at
the Taconite canteen on November 16th. More info will be in the newsletter.
4. Zone 3 Chair – Lion Sue Larson
Report is in the book. It has been busy last few months. At their zone Fair, 76 lions were in attendance.
This coming Thursday they will have the zone 3 meeting here at legion in Backus. Lion Sue met with
the President/secretary of Longville. She said that the clubs who don’t have gambling are out doing
service. Gambling clubs get lazy and are not doing service. In a couple months’ time, a club has
recruited 5 new members by being out doing service. Lion Sue has been working with Clubs on GMA.
She is also working on Midwinter. She was in a Zoom meeting with GMA Jay on GMA process.
5. Zone 4 Chair – Laurie Kommer
New zone chair. Just stepped up today! She will have more to come.
Page | 96. Zone 5 Chair – Lion Cathe Picek
Report is in the book. Lion Cathe shared that she has completed visiting all 6 of the clubs in her zone.
She attended Aldrich club to share about GMA and will work with them the rest of the year to help them
increase membership. Her zone meeting will be in December.
7. Zone 6 Chair – Vacant
8. Zone 7 Co- Chairs – Jake and Debbie Jacoby
Report is in the book. Thanks to all who came to Vergas for the Zone Fair. The Zone Fair ignited an
interest with Vergas Lions of service outside of their town. Both Lions Jake and Debbie recently went to
RLLI.
9. Zone 8 Chair – Lion Ginny Paulson
Report: As reported from others, the Zone fair with zones 7,8, and 9 was a success with good attendance.
I have visited or had contact with several of the clubs that are struggling at this time with membership
and the decisions of when to meet. I have also met a few times with the team working on the club in
Pelican Rapids.
The Zone plastics project is still very active with between 100 and 200 pounds per week. At this time we
will be making some changes due to the death of Lion Pamela Shroden who had been the contact with
all the groups and the recording of our collections.
Our overall member count for the zone is down with the resignation of several members due to health
concerns but one club recently inducted two new members.
Our next zone meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 3rd at the Elizabeth Community Center.
Social and registration is at 5:30 with the meal served at 6. The cost is $15 per person. We need a count
of attendees by October 27th. RSVP to Ginny at 218-639-0921 or email to ginnyr1958@gmail.com.
There are 2 corrections needed to be made in the directory.
1. Jackie Brusven is the Elizabeth President.
Cell-218-770-2788
Email: pbrusven@centurylink.net
2. Shana Klindt is the Cambell President.
Cell 701-403-9409
There are changes to the officer list for Breckenridge, but I have not gotten the information at this time.
Ginny Paulson, Zone Chair
Ginny reported that the zone fair successful and they had enough food. The plastics project still active
and going well. They collect100-200 lbs. of plastic a week. Membership count in zone down, some have
resigned due to medical conditions, physical conditions, or they are in nursing homes. Bev Norland was
presented the Leader dog founders certificate/award for years of service. Wishes she could do more but
can’t. Zone meeting November 3rd Elizabeth.
Page | 1010. Zone 9 Chair – Lion Connie Krusemark
Report is in the book. Lion Connie Krusemark. She has helped screen with Kidsight just under 1,000
students screened. Service projects are taking up some of her time between Battle Lake and Kidsight.
Project Chair Reports:
1. Can Do Canines – Lions Sheri Greenwaldt and Art Schmidt
Report is in the book. Lion Sheri shared information from the woofaroo this past September. It was a fun
time with a lot of activities that happened. Thank you all for your support.
2. Communications Team: PR/Newsletter – Lion Sue Stebbins
Report is in the book. Lion Sue said she is not doing publicity contest at midwinter. The contest is on
hold for a while. Lion Sue shared she changed her home email address.
3. Communications Team: Technology/Website – Lion Burke Almquist
Report is in the book. Lion Burke shared an update regarding 1 item from the end of his report. He is
updating mailerlite email addresses. As new people come into the district get their emails entered into
mylion. He also asked that secretaries look at mylion to see if emails are correct or not for their
members. If they are wrong in mylion, they will be wrong for mailerlite.
4. Constitution & Bylaws – PDG Jay Norby
Report is in the book. PDG Jay discussed adding in Article III the GET and the Marketing chair to the
policy Manual. DG Scott looking at the positions and, 1st VDG Richard wants to have positions for his
year. Lion Ginny Paulson, Riverside Fergus Falls Lions made the motion to transfer the above changes
over to the policy manual. Lion Joe Laudenbach, Nisswa Lions 2nd the motion. There were no questions.
Motion carried.
5. Conventions & Forums – IPDG Jamie Huttunen
Report is in the book. There are forms available today for the September 2023 USA/Canada forum.
6. District Administrator – PDG Margaret Van Erp
Report is in the book. PDG Margaret said good luck at getting all email addresses for Lions members
and having the changes entered into LCI. Members change email addresses and don’t get LCI updated.
7. District Chaplain – Lion Jim McGaffey
Report is in the book.
8. District Governor Contest – PDG Margaret Van Erp
Report is in the book. Plaques were awarded from last year for the District Governor Contest at IPDG
Jamie’s awards forum. PDG Margaret didn’t get many reports last month, if you are having problems
with reports let PDG Margaret know. She is hoping for more reports now. Lion Burke shared that he
should have the problem fixed on the website.
9. District Historian – PDG Judy Brasgalla
Page | 11No report in the book.
10. Environmental – PDG Rose Puckett
Report is in the book.
11. Eyes for Mexico- Lion Dr. Armand Radke
Report is in the book.
12. Global Leadership Team Coordinator – PCC Bert Nelson
Report is in the book. PCC Bert asked those who have attended RLLI to stand.
ALLI- 2 from our district just went to California for training. PCC Bert shared that
other districts look to us for leadership. At the host night in October members of 5M9 were presented
with Leadership medals from IP Brian. The Lions are PDG Linda Albrect-Norby, PDG Jay Norby, Lion
Erin Beck, PID Bruce Beck, and PCC Bert. He recognized those in attendence at the cabinet meeting.
Coming up is district orientation on Oct 29th at New Creation Church in Perham. Its for everyone and
not just new members. It’s a wonderful oportunity. Bring someone with you!
13. Global Membership Team Coordinator – Lion Diann Bates
Report is in the book. Lion Diann shared that a club whose membership is mainly all men, will be
adding female members. Dianne asked how many women have joined lions in MN and in the world?
She reached out to LCI and the answer is 5,611 women in MN and 450,867 women in the world!
14. Global Service Team Coordinator – IPDG Jamie Huttunen
Report is in the book. IPDG Jamie shared that so far this lions year 40% clubs reporting service. There
were 6,378 people served in our Multiple and there was 9,642 hours of service completed in our
multiple.
15. GMA Report – PDG Jay Norby
Report is in the book. 1 club asked for a visit from PDG Jay about GMA. They want more information.
A club that currently has no women in it is currently recruiting 7 females and there are some male
members who will leave the club. PDG Jay said he will trade new members for an old one any day.
16. Kamp KACE/MN Childhood Cancer foundation– PDG Linda Albrecht-Norby and Lion Cora
Hohnstadt
Report is in the book. They are busy visiting clubs. Pillager Lions have donated $ to a 17-year-old,
matching grant from MN Childhood cancer foundation up to $500. Let them know if you hear about a
child going through cancer treatments. Cora saw a poster up in the DQ in Pine River for a benefit for a
3-year-old who has cancer. Fleece blanket made for the child. All from a flyer. The MN Childhood
cancer foundation is a “Young” foundation and right now the $500 just a start. As they get more funds
into the foundation the more they can give back. Money is going back to the community and families
17. LCIF – Lions Larry & Zelda Novak and Lion Erin Beck
Page | 12Report is in the book. Lion Erin shared that she is excited to be LCIF chair, and she was just at training
last week. She is excited for all of us, and LCIF is our only foundation. She will continue to share as she
learns more. Lion Erin found out a lot last week that she didn’t know. She encouraged clubs to keep
reporting service. When we report service, LCIF will get more partners and more support with the
service we report. More information to come.
Lion Erin said thank you for the donations, we are behind where we were last year at this point. We are
done with campaign 100, but we need to keep up with donations. She is challenging cabinet members to
donate $10/month as individual reoccurring donations. She wants 20% participation from cabinet
members by midwinter convention.
18. Leader Dog – Lions Paul Roth and Scott Hauge
Report is in the book. Lion Scott said that he has received some donations so far, if club has not donated,
all donations are appreciated.
19. Leo Clubs – Lions Yvonne Huttunen and Anna (Huttunen) Tharaldson
Report is in the book. Lion Yvonne is exited for Brainerd Leos new leader, Trish.
20. MD5M Lions KidSight Foundation – Lion PDG Sandy Remington & Joe Juettner
Report is in the book. It was shared that screenings are happening again and its good to have things
getting back to a normal. Kidsight numbers were down due to covid. They are excited to see how 5M9
has been going out to do screenings. Been around 6-7 years that we have had some of the equipment and
equipment does not last. Kidsight requires technical equipment that is specific. One of the things that has
happened is they have been given service extensions to equipment and software updates and batteries
need to be done. This is not just our district, but it’s the multiple as well. Goal is to get equipment
updated this year. 275 children screened at the state fair with 27 referred for further evaluation.
21. Memorial Service – Lion Jim Johansen
Report is in the book.
22. Mid-Winter Convention 2023 – Lion Cathie Pieck
Report is in the book. Things are moving along, and they have a fabulous committee working together to
plan the convention. In October the committee will start having 2 meetings/month. If anyone here would
like to register, PDG Sandy will help today! If anyone needs help signing up, reach out to the committee.
DG Scott asked the cabinet a couple of questions for this convention-
1. Sunday when we have brunch can we have it be more casual day, and anyone wearing a suit
will get tail twisted! PDG Sandy Remington- Backus Lions made the motion to have Sunday
as a casual day. Lion Diann Bates 2nd the motion. There were no questions or discussion.
Motion carried.
2. It was discussed that with having the Cabinet meeting on Friday, and the business meeting
Saturday morning, can we do cabinet reports at Business meeting on Saturday. Instead of both
Page | 13Friday and Saturday? All cabinet members will have to share their reports vs saying “Report
in book.” Those attending Saturday morning may not have read the book. Further discussion
as follows:
a. Will there be printed books at meeting?
b. Who needs to get book prior to meeting?
c. Will there be Portable mics to keep things moving?
d. A suggestion was brought up to have a QR Code going into cabinet meeting to get reports.
The QR Code to go to district website with a link to the Book for business meeting.
e. More on this procedure to come.
23. Mid-Winter Convention 2024- PDG Jay Norby
Report is in the book. Planning for the 2024 Midwinter is well on way with all plans completed. The
plans still in the works include the final cost of rooms, which they will know more around 1st of
December, and the cost of meals, more to come on that. PDG Jay shared that the casino is now smoke
free, and all motel rooms have been cleaned! Sign up will be available at the 2023 midwinter convention
and there will be 3 prizes given for for early bird registration.
24. Mid-Winter Convention 2025- Lion Shawn Hanson
Report is in the book. The Committee had a meeting this past week. 2nd VDG Denise is excited for a
weekend of Fun, relevance and being Awesome!
25. MN Lions Diabetes Foundation – Lion Angie Hauge
Report is in the book. Lion Angie said welcome to Carl Bates who is her new chair. She shared that 170
diabetes kits were given to 5M9 District, she has gone through all but 10 kits. The kits can be replicated and made
in our clubs. There is a paper on hypoglycemia and the kits are easy to put together. Please use the paper that is in
the kits for information for kits. She shared items and costs include: $1.00 for pencil pouches, 2 glucose pouches
which are 12/ 24.99 at Walmart. Or Glucose tablets are $1.00/10 but Gel easier for those who can’t chew, 1
packet of cheese ritz crackers are 16/5.98. Nov is diabetes awareness month. There are expiration dates on
glucose, crackers. If kits given out, those who receive the kits are responsible for refilling.
26. MN Lions Hearing Foundation – Lions Michele Plagman & Laurie Kommer
Report is in the book. Lion Laurie shared that she has done a few club visits and a couple more on the
way. If you know of anyone who is looking for affordable hearing aids, they can apply through the
foundation to see if they can get them.
27. MN Lions Vision Foundation – Lions PDG Jim Arvidson and Don Mork
Report is in the book.
28. New Club Development – PCC Bert Nelson
Report is in the book. There are currently 11 members signed up from Pelican Rapids for the new
Pelican Rapids club. They need 9 more members. PCC Bert wants to get this club formed before the
new year. Lions on the east side of the district, do you know of any areas that would work for a new
club? PCC Bert will get team going on that and get a new club formed on this side.
Page | 1429. Project New Hope – PDG Dick Labraaten and Lions Sean Abernathy
Report is in the book. The date of the COG meeting messed up the project new hope board meeting, they
usually have the meeting 2 weeks before COG, but this past meeting they met the same date as COG.
They had a new board retreat, almost all district chairs there. They took 1.5 days to sit and go over ideas
for the retreats. They discussed how do they get vets back after COVID and how do they get vets in
general. They were able to come up with good ideas. There will be a Survivor retreat. When vet dies,
suicide, survivors still there. It may be easier to have a survivor retreat, won’t need a counselor in PTSD
for this retreat. Greif counselor, pastor could be used. More to come.
30. Special Olympics- PDG Les Swift
Report is in the book. PDG Les shared that those with challenges go out 110%. Currently they are trying
to rebuild coaches for Special Olympics in Brainerd. If any clubs are interested in helping let PDG Les
know. PDG Les also shared that the new Camp Confidence Lions club will be coming to midwinter and
want to help with diabetes.
31. Youth Exchange/Youth Camp – Lions Jean Driscoll and Jenny Crider
Report is in the book.
32. Youth Outreach/Scholarships/Poster Contests – Lions Evie Ladd and Mike Kern
Report is in the book. Its crunch time for them to get scholarships back. Please get the information out!
They currently only have 1 scholarship application that has been returned another coming in. Lion Evie
said the applications usually show up 2 days before deadline. Lion Evie did send the scholarship
information to colleges, but they didn’t respond to her that they received them.
DG Scott shared that there are Boston pins up front on the table. Please take one. After today they will be asking
for Donations. If anyone doesn’t have a Brian Sheehan pin in the cabinet. Donna will come around and give
them out.
DG Scott recognized Nominations he submitted for the New Voices award for individual efforts.
1. Marketing- Sue Stebbins
2. Leadership- Denise Laudenbach
3. Membership- Les Swift
4. Service- Jamie Huttunen
Awards:
1. Years of service pins. He will give to clubs
Tail Twisting- Lots of great fines! $78
Drawings: 1. Lion Joe Juettner
2. Lion Burke Almquist
Closing Comments
• 2nd VDG Denise Laudenbach
Page | 15IP Brian- 4 goals-
1. Share the joy of being a lion
2. Think big when we serve
3. Keep foundation strong
4. Be an advocate
2nd VDG Denise talked about the first goal in the October newsletter which is share the joy of being a
lion. Next month (November) IP Brian’s 2nd goal of Think big will be discussed. She is encouraging all
clubs to embrase bigger and more ambitious service. How do we do this when the same people are doing
the work? Join forces and do service together. Work with other service organizations. Talk to those in
your club who have not been to meetings/service projects.
• 1st VDG Richard Hanson
We need to grow membership. There currently are 10 clubs in our district with 15 or less members. Help
those clubs out to grow in membership.
• DG Scott Rolfe
DG Scott shared that 1 reason he does not want to have projects share their reports on Friday is because
the meeting is early, and people work. Thank you everyone for showing up. Thank you to Backus lions
for food and hosting the cabinet meeting.
Next Cabinet meeting will be on January 6th @ 2:00 pm Cragun’s room TBD
DG Scott asked for a motion to tend the meeting. Lion Laurie Kommer- Vergas made the motion to end the
cabinet meeting. Lion Burke Almquist, Riverside Fergus Falls Lions 2nd the motion. No further discussion, or
questions. Motion was carried. The meeting was adjourned at 4:09 pm.
Meeting minutes were recorded by District Secretary Lion Sheri Greenwaldt.
Page | 165M9 Saturday Business Meeting Agenda
Saturday, January 7th, 2023
8:30 am -10:30 am
Call to Order ....................................................................................................... DG Scott Rolfe
Pledge of Allegiance ............................................................................. 1st VDG Richard Hanson
Canadian Pledge of Allegiance .................................................... 2nd VDG Denise Laudenbach
Invocation ....................................................................................... 2nd VDG Denise Laudenbach
Introduction of Guests ....................................................................................... . DG Scott Rolfe
Housekeeping:
1. Rules ................................................................................................................. PDG Les Swift
2. Parliamentarian ................................................................................................PDG Jay Norby
3. Sergeant-at-arms ................................................... ...Lions Joe Laudenbach, Sharon Whipple,
Sue Larson, Laurine Kommer, Cathe Picek, Robert and Debra Jacoby, Ginny Paulson, Connie
Krusemark, and Julie Fritz
Tail Twister/Timekeeper Rules…………………………Lions PDG Dale Johansen and Friends
Approval of Agenda for Saturday, January 7, 2023
Approval of the Minutes of 2022 Business Session
Unfinished Business
New Business
Financial Report........................................................... District Treasurer Linda Albrecht-Norby
Convention Reports:
1. Credentials ...............................................................District Administrator Margaret Van Erp
2. Elections ...................................................................District Administrator Margaret Van Erp
3. 2023 Convention Report ............................................................ Convention Committee Chair
4. 2024 Convention City Report .............................................................................. Vergas Lions
5. 2025 Convention City Report ............................................................................. Nisswa Lions
6. MD5M Convention Report ......................................................................PCC Todd Neumann
Nominations ..................................................................................................... PDG Rose Puckett
Hall of Fame Award
1. 3 minutes for nomination speech
• PCC Bert Nelson
2 minutes for second speech
• PDG Jay Norby
District Governor Nomination
1. 8 minutes total for
Page | 17•nomination
• PCC Bert Nelson
• Second
• Lion Robert Jacoby
• Demonstration
2. 2 minutes total for nominee’s acceptance
First Vice District Governor Nomination
1. 8 minutes total for
• nomination
• PDG Linda Albrect-Norby
• Second
• PDG Jay Norby
• demonstration
2. 2 minutes total for nominee’s acceptance
Second Vice District Governor Nomination
1. 8 minutes total for
• nomination
• PDG Jim Arvidson
• Second
• PID Bruce Beck
• demonstration
2. 2 minutes total for nominee’s acceptance
Zone Chairs ......................................................................................... All reports are to be made
from the front of the room
Zone Reports:
1. Zone Chair Advisor – PCC Bert Nelson
2. Zone 1 Chair –Lion Joe Laudenbach
3. Zone 2 Chair – Lion Sharon Whipple
4. Zone 3 Chair – Lion Sue Larson
5. Zone 4 Chair – Laurine Kommer
6. Zone 5 Chair- Lion Cathe Picek
7. Zone 6 Chair – Vacant
8. Zone 7 Co-Chairs – Lions Jake & Debbie Jacoby
9. Zone 8 Chair – Lion Ginny Paulson
10. Zone 9 Chair – Lion Connie Krusemark
Committee and Project Chairs ......................................................... All reports are to be made
from the front of the room
Committee and Project Chair Reports:
1. Can Do Canines – Lions Sheri Greenwaldt and Art Schmidt
2. Communications Team: PR/Newsletter – Lion Sue Stebbins
3. Communications Team: Technology/Website – Lion Burke Almquist
4. Constitution & Bylaws – PDG Jay Norby
5. Conventions & Forums – IPDG Jamie Huttunen
6. District Administrator – PDG Margaret Van Erp
Page | 187. District Chaplain – Lion Jim McGaffey
8. District GMA Champion- PDG Jay Norby
9. District Governor Contest – PDG Margaret Van Erp
10. District Historian – PDG Judy Brasgalla
11. District Picnic and Service Project – Lions Shawn Hanson and 2nd VDG Denise Laudenbach
12. Environmental – PDG Rose Puckett
13. Eyes for Mexico– Lion Dr. Armand Radke
14. Global Leadership Team Coordinator- PCC Bert Nelson
15. Global Membership Team Coordinator – Lion Diann Bates
16. Global Service Team Coordinator – IPDG Jamie Huttunen
17. Kamp KACE/MN Childhood Cancer Foundation – PDG Linda Albrecht-Norby & Lion Cora Hohnstadt
18. LCIF – Lions Larry & Zelda Novak and Lion Erin Beck
19. Leader Dog – Lions Paul Roth and Scott Hauge
20. Leo Clubs – Lions Yvonne Huttunen and Anna Tharaldson
21. MD5M Lions KidSight Foundation –PDG Sandy Remington & Joe Juettner
22. Memorial Service – Lion Jim Johansen
23. Mid-Winter Convention 2023 – Lion Cathe Picek
24. Mid-Winter Convention 2024- PDG Jay Norby
25. Mid-Winter Convention 2025- Lion Shawn Hanson
26. MN Lions Diabetes Foundation – Lions Angie Hauge and Carl Bates
27. MN Lions Hearing Foundation – Lions Michele Plagman and Laurie Kommer
28. MN Lions Vision Foundation – PDG Jim Arvidson and Lion Don Mork
29. New Club Development – PCC Bert Nelson
30. Project New Hope – PDG Dick Labraaten and Lion Sean Abernathy
31. Special Olympics- PDG Les Swift
32. Youth Exchange/Youth Camp – Lions Jean Driscoll and Jenny Crider
33. Youth Outreach/Scholarships/Poster Contests – Lions Evie Ladd and Mike Kern
Closing Comments .............................................................. ID Allen Snider and DG Scott Rolfe
Meeting recessed until 9:00 a.m. Sunday, January 8th, 2023
Voting in the back of room, have your delegate cards ready!
Page | 19Treasures report:
Beginning Balance as of October 1, 2022 $20,556.30
INCOME
10/31/22 Interest- October checkbook $ 0.93
11/7/22 Interest- $ 25,000.00 CD $ 31.51
11/28/22 Interest- $ 25,000.00 CD $ 31.51
11/28/22 Interest- November checkbook $ 2.27
12/28/22 Interest-$50,000.00 CD $ 87.74
12/30/22 Interest-December checkbook $ 2.24
Transfer from Acct 0139 to correct WT error from
12/30/22 4779 $ 24,996.90
2nd Qtr. 5M9 & MD5M Dues, Bond & Addl. Ins. $ 2,101.82
District Governors Tail twisting $ 878.00
College of Leadership-refund Shooting Star Casino $ 245.00
Directory & Postage-NYM Lions $ 17.95
Projects
Environmental $ 100.00
Kamp KACE $ 6,273.50
MN Lions Childhood Cancer Fd. $ 160.00
Special Olympics $ 623.65
Youth Exchange $ 2,357.50
Youth Outreach $ 2,615.25
Total Income Balance as of 12/31/2022 $ 40,525.77
Expenses
10/7/22 1132 Scott Rolfe-DG reimbursements $ 799.35
10/7/22 1133 Joe Juettner- MD5M Kidsight expeneses $ 283.19
10/10/22 1134 Burke Almquist- Website expenses $ 164.95
10/8/22 1135 Richard Hanson- 1st VDG expenses $ 702.59
10/20/22 1136 Bert Nelson- New Club Development-Pel. Rapids $ 97.50
10/23/22 1137 Armand Radke-Eyes for Mexico postage $ 263.56
10/25/22 1138 Evie Ladd-Youth Outreach-postage & envelopes $ 49.11
10/28/22 1139 MN Lions Childhood Cancer Fd.-Club donations $ 919.50
Page | 2011/4/22 1140 Denise Laudenbach-2nd VDG reimbursements $ 452.00
11/7/22 1141 Backus Lions Club-Cabinet Mtg. meal $ 250.00
11/7/22 1142 Scott Rolfe-DG reimbursements $ 625.46
11/11/22 1143 Laurie Kommer-RLLI reimbursement $ 50.00
11/17/22 1144 MD5M-Boston & Gov. Awards pins $ 945.00
11/24/22 1145 Joe Juettner- MD5M Kidsight expeneses $ 132.29
12/15/22 Trans. Food Packing Event-open checkbook $ 100.00
12/17/22 1147 Lynne Krispin-RLLI reimbursement $ 50.00
12/28/22 WT Wire Transfer from Acct. 0139 Food Grant Acct. $ 24,966.90
12/28/22 WT Wire Transfer fee from Acct. 0139 Food Grant Acct $ 30.00
Total Expense Balance as of 12/31/2022 $30,881.40
Ending balance per bank statement 12/31/22 $30,200.67
Outstanding Transactions
12/13/22 1146 Scott Rolfe-DG reimbursements $ 215.50
12/17/22 1148 Julie Fritz-RLLI reimbursement $ 50.00
12/17/22 1149 Robert & Deb Jacoby-RLLI reimbursement $ 100.00
12/17/22 1150 Tina Foster-RLLI reimbursement $ 50.00
12/17/22 1151 Robert Hanahs-RLLI reimbursement $ 50.00
12/17/22 1152 Robert Sawyer-RLLI reimbursement $ 50.00
12/17/22 1153 Cathe Picek-ALLI reimbursement $ 125.00
12/30/22 1154 Shawn Hansen-ALLI registration reimbursement $ 125.00
12/30/22 1155 Burke Almquist-Website expenses -Oct., Nov. & Dec. $ 140.13
Balance of outstanding Checks as of 12/31/2022 $ 905.63
Ending Balance of Quickbooks as of 12/31/2022 $ 29,295.04
CD'S United Community Bank -12 month $50,000.00
United community Bank - 6 month $25,000.00
United Community Bank -12 month $50,000.00
United Community Bank - 6 month $25,000.00
United Community Bank - 6 month $25,000.00 $175,000.00
Page | 21Zone Reports:
1. Zone Chair Advisor – PCC Bert Nelson
The Zone Fairs are all done. They were well attended. Congratulations Zone Chairs. The next round of
Zone meetings are coming up.
We are still looking for a Zone Chair in Zone 6.
2. Zone 1 Chair –Lion Joe Laudenbach
Since our last Cabinet meeting on October 23rd, I had the opportunity to visit the Brainerd Lions Club,
Pillager Lions Club and the East Gull Lake Camp Confidence Lions Club. The focus of these meetings
was to discuss the GMA process and to get clubs thinking about what their club membership and
leadership is going to look like in 10 or 20 years.
The GMA topic carried over into our Zone 1 meeting which was hosted by the Brainerd Lions on
November 15th. We had great attendance with over 40 members present. GMA Champion Jay Norby
was our guest speaker at the zone meeting where he encouraged round table discussions on challenges
and opportunities. The discussions were well received.
I had the opportunity to attend the orientation training in Perham on October 29th, the zone 3 meeting in
Backus on October 27th, and the zone 2 meeting in Ironton on November 16th.
Zone 1 is participating in a zone wide project again this year with the Diaper Drive on January 16th. See
flyer attached:
Zone chair 1 Lion Joe
Page | 223. Zone 2 Chair – Lion Sharon Whipple
We completed our zone meeting, and all seemed to have a good time with a lot of good fellowship. I
have my club arranged for the spring zone meeting My clubs have been very busy with Holiday things
and helping a lot of people in their communities., as well as getting their donations in before the
Midwinter convention. I have slowly been trying to complete my club visits many clubs aren't meeting in
Dec. We are all looking forward to the new year and hoping the world starts improving but as Lion we
will continue to work together to improve our world one person at a time God Bless to all.
4. Zone 3 Chair – Lion Sue Larson
Our Fall Zone 3 meeting was held on October 27th, hosted by the Backus Lions Club and held at the
Backus American Legion. This meetings focus was on our GMA Process. We had members from 7 of the
8 clubs in our Zone attending along with DG Scott, 1st Vice DG Richard, and 2nd Vice Denise, a total of
44 people. The Backus Lions not only did a great job of hosting this meeting, but they even cooked and
served our meal! Thank you, Backus Lions for a job well done!
I have been working on projects for our Mid-Winter Convention and attending meetings with DG Scott
along with other Lions from our district who have worked hard to make this convention a success. I hope
you all enjoy yourselves at this 2023 Mid-Winter Convention!
5. Zone 4 Chair – Laurine Kommer
Zone 4 Chair- Laurie Kommer
There is nothing going on right now as I am very new to this. I hope that I will have something to report
for the next cabinet meeting.
6. Zone 5 Chair- Lion Cathe Picek
Zone 5 – Zone Chair Cathe Picek
November MCAR reports were received from all six clubs. YTD the Zone has 192 members, 10
drops, 5 new members, -2.5% net growth with an average of 32 members per club.
Zone 5 has many enthusiastic and hardworking Lions! Some of the Zone 5 club service projects
held in October through early December included: Trunk & Treat, Blood Drives, Pancake
Breakfast, football game concessions, Oktoberfest, Big Buck/Big Doe contest, Spaghetti Dinner,
Highway Clean Ups, Burger Bashes, blankets for Childhood Cancer, Thanksgiving Dinners, Vison
Screening in schools and Holiday Dinners to name a few.
I have visited all the clubs in Zone 5 in 2022. A multiple Zone 4-5-6 Meeting was hosted by Park
Rapids and a Zone 5 Meeting was hosted Verndale. The GMA program was introduced to each
club president with the intent of scheduling follow-up meetings in the future with me or GMA
Champion Jay Norby.
Zone 5 is continuing to emphasize “Together We Can”, “We Serve” and “Members Matter”.
7. Zone 6 Chair – Vacant
8. Zone 7 Co-Chairs – Lions Jake & Debbie Jacoby
Zone 7 -Lions Robert (Jake) and Debbie Jacoby
Page | 23The Cormorant Lions club hosted a zone meeting. The meeting featured a presentation by District GMA
Champion, Jay Norby. We thank the Cormorant Lions for hosting and providing a great meal and social.
Several of our Lions clubs, Frazee, Four Corners, Vergas, and Wolf Lake hosted a veterans appreciation
dinner at the Frazee community center. Veterans and their guests received a free dinner. Several quilts of
valor were presented to area veterans. The Frazee high school band, FFA and Frazee royalty were all on
hand to honor our veterans. We served 225 Veterans and quests!
The clubs in our zone include Callaway, Cormorant, Detroit Lakes, Dunn Township Dunvilla, Erie
Township 4 Corners, Frazee, Perham, Perham Area Community and Vergas.
9. Zone 8 Chair – Lion Ginny Paulson
Zone 8 report
Ginny Paulson Zone 8 Chair
This Lions Year has been an adventure. So many changes with new terms to learn, new methods of
learning, so many possibilities for learning, and more emphasis on training and learning. What a great
way to better your knowledge and yourself. And the International President is a Lions member from
Minnesota.
The last couple of years has presented the opportunity, several times, to meet and get to know the
International President personally. This probably will not happen again in the live time of many of us.
The last time Minnesota had the an International President was 101 years ago. Something you don’t get
to experience unless you get involved. His theme is TOGETHER WE CAN! I believe that Lions of
District 5M9 and Zone 8 are doing just that.
Zone 7, 8 and 9 worked together for a successful zone fair, clubs have come together for their zone
meetings, projects have been done together and clubs have met together in zone 8 for club orientation,
and Dist Gov Scott’s club visits are done together by several different clubs.
Clubs are working together in several projects when there is not enough members to be able to do the
project alone. 4 clubs continue to work with the Trex Plastics Recycling project. Several thousand
pounds of plastic have been saved from the landfill in the last 2 years. The result of this project is that all
four clubs have or will have there fourth bench within 2 years. Many community members are very
complementary and supportive of this project and want to see it continue. We are also working with our
Productive Alternative Program after they asked how they could help.
The Lions Reading Program which was started with several clubs working together with community
members and state agencies involved will be celebrating it’s 30th anniversary on April 1, 20023.
I have been involved with the Zone fair, held 2 zone meetings. Visited some of the clubs, not all of them
because some of them do not hold meetings as we think of them, but they still get the work done.
TOGETHER WE CAN!
10. Zone 9 Chair – Lion Connie Krusemark
Season's greetings from Zone 9.
It was a busy fall with Lions activities and KidSight Vision screening. I'm working on club visits and
presenting the Global Membership Approach to encourage membership in all of the clubs. I hear that
clubs are "aging out" and finding it harder to get new, younger members. The Global Membership
Approach is a great tool for clubs working on gaining membership. I'm looking forward to more club
visits after the holidays and possibly introducing the KidSight Vision screening program to some
additional clubs.
Page | 24Wishing you all a happy and healthy winter!
Connie Krusemark, Zone 9 Chair
Committee and Project Chair Reports:
1. Can Do Canines – Lions Sheri Greenwaldt and Art Schmidt
I did a presentation at Malmo Lions Club on October 18th. That was a fun time had by all. I’m off
my chemo treatments now, so things are looking good, but I am very sleepy. To all you great great lions,
Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
See you at the Mid-Winter Convention
Can Do Canine Co-Chari Lion Art
Can Do Canine report
Lion Sheri Greenwaldt
Can Do Canines is running strong. The new facility dog program is doing very well. This is a program
that uses dogs that would have possibly been career changed in the past. The facility dogs are trained to
work at a designated location with a variety of people rather than just one person. The tasks the dogs
perform are done for someone other than their handler.
In a recent Tails-for-you letter they showcased Can Do Canine dog Fern. M-Health Fairview Masonic
Children’s hospital has Fern there to work with the children. They have seen how Fern can lower stress
with just her presence. Fern is trained to distract children while going through procedures and can
motivate children to walk with her through therapy. It is great to see how this program is progressing.
They also have a dog named Clayton who is placed with M Health Fairview Ambulance. He is providing
much needed support to the EMS professionals. I am excited to see where this program goes.
February 25th, 2023, is the upcoming Fetching ball. It will be at the Radisson Blu at the Mall of America.
Come join Can Do Canines for an evening celebrating the amazing teams of Can Do Canines. Enjoy
dinner, inspiring stories, games, and silent and live auctions. Master of Ceremonies will be Rena
Sarigianopoulos, KARE 11 Reporter/Anchor. Ticket sales begin January 3rd, 2023.
Finally, I found a couple of stories from teams that I wanted to share. These dogs make such an impact
in their handlers lives. They make it so their handlers can live the most normal life possible.
Tom and Diabetes Assist Dog Freida
Freida has been an amazing partner. I could never have even dreamed up a better buddy. She has
saved my life and brought so much joy into the world. She is an amazing animal and I have been
privileged to have her in my life.
Amy and Mobility Assist Dog Ezra
Ezra is an incredible partner. We are approaching our 3-year anniversary this January, and he has
improved my life every day since we were matched. He not only completes many tasks that
make my life easier, but he also makes my life happier by just being sweet and goofy. He is very
attentive to me and is always ready to help. He makes me feel more confident to go places
independently. He comes with me to work at a pediatric clinic and all of the kids love waving to
him and saying hi/bye when they enter/leave my clinic room.
Page | 25You can also read
