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Fellow Lions of Arizona, it is a privilege to serve as your Arizona Council of Governors Chair for 2026–2027. As we embark on this new Lionistic year, I am filled with optimism for what we will achieve together. It is an honor to serve alongside our dedicated District Governors—Governor Marsine Perry of 21-N and Governor Edmond Lopez of 21-S—as we unite our efforts across the state. We are joined by PDG Farhana Shifa, who is serving as council secretary, and Lion Jon Stewart, who is serving as council treasurer. We are honored and very fortunate to have Past International President Joe Preston as our council administrator.
Rooted in Service: Empowering Our Local Impact
Our foundation is strong, thanks to the tireless leadership of PCC Ken Leja and the outgoing Council. However, we can’t rest on the success and impact that came before us.
As your Council, our goal is to amplify that impact. We are a part of a global movement, but our success is always measured by the lives we touch right here in Arizona. International President Mark Lyon, who has a special connection to Arizona through PID Carolyn and PCC Norm Messier, has chosen “Rooted in Service” as his theme for the year. With that in mind, our pillars are:
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Planting Kindness. This is demonstrated by focusing on membership retention and attracting new, diverse perspectives to our clubs. Celebrating Our Heritage: This is where Melvin Jones was born, and where his first memories were created. As we reflect on our legacy, we look forward to integrating new service models that address the evolving needs of our communities.
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Growing Leaders. We will look for opportunities for Lions to serve on special projects and gain valuable hands-on leadership experience.
We will empower the Next Generation by mentoring our Leos and involving new members in meaningful projects, to ensure the strength of our clubs for years to come.
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Harvesting Hope: In the very near future, we will announce a major event to introduce Lions to Arizona civic leaders to show them the hope Lions can bring to their communities. We are committed to transparency and open lines of communication. Please utilize the Canyon State Lion and our digital tools to share your club’s successes and seek partnership.
I am eager to visit your clubs, hear your stories, and serve alongside you. Let us continue to be the catalyst for positive change in every corner of our state. We serve—not because it is required, but because it is who we are.
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| With Respect and Lionism Service,
Keith Alexander
MD-21 Council Chair |
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Governor’s Report – District 21-N
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United in Service: Building Momentum, Shirts,
& Big Goals Ahead!
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Lions of District 21N and MD21,
We have so much to be excited about as we kick off this new Lionistic year! Thanks to your dedication and hard work, we finished strong—ranking in the top 10 of Constitutional Area 1 (CA1). This incredible achievement proves what we can accomplish when we work together.
As I step into my second official month as your District Governor, I am filled with gratitude and energy for what lies ahead. Our mission is clear, and our focus is locked on why we are here: Service.
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August 1st Kickoff in Williams, AZ
We are gearing up for our District Kickoff in historic Williams!
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Location: Rodeo Steakhouse (950 Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ)
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Registration: Starts at 8:00 AM | Kickoff: Starts at 9:00 AM
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Sign Up: If you haven’t registered yet, check out the form in the July issue of the Lions Digital Canyon State.
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MD21 Shirt Design Contest
It’s been over five years since we’ve had a new Multiple District shirt! We are calling on all the creative designers in our clubs to submit a design for an official MD21 shirt:
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Vote at Mid-Year: All submitted entries will be featured at the Mid-Year Conference for members to vote on.
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Wear it in D.C.: The winning design will be produced and worn at the International Convention in Washington, D.C., where our very own 1st VDG Jim Myers will be sworn in as District Governor!
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Leading with Purpose & Growing Our Impact
District Governor Ed Lopez and I are committed to working together to keep MD21 a unified district that collaborates state-wide and across borders. If you have an idea, share it!
Our goals this year are ambitious but entirely doable:
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Add 4 new clubs and welcome 100+ new members.
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Foster deep partnerships with local non-profits who need our support.
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Fill our two open Zone Chair positions in Central Phoenix and Cottonwood. (If interested, reach out to me, Lion Larry Savage in Phoenix, or Lion Cathy Dressler in the Mountain Region).
As we plant the seeds for this year, keep this mindset in close view:
“Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.”
Wayne W Dyer
Be the inspiration, not the cloud. As International President Mark Lyon reminded us, use the difficulty—because even through harsh rains comes incredible growth. When we share our story, the community will join us!
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Yours in Service,
Marsine Perry
District Governor 21N
District 21N Lions International
Rooted in Service |
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Governor’s Report – District 21-S
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21S District Governor’s Message
I want to recognize and thank our Immediate Past District Governor, Richard Stevenson, for his outstanding leadership during the 2025–2026 Lions year.
One of DG Richard’s greatest priorities was communication. Throughout his year, Lions across the district consistently expressed the need for stronger communication—from the district leadership to the clubs, and just as importantly, from the clubs back to the district. Richard embraced that challenge and often reminded us:
“If I am accused of over-communicating, then I am guilty.”
That philosophy helped strengthen relationships, improve transparency, and ensure that every Lion had the opportunity to stay informed and engaged.
One of my commitments as District Governor is to ensure that every club remains informed, supported, and connected to the district. Strong communication builds stronger clubs, develops future leaders, and ensures that every Lion has access to information and resources needed for success.
To accomplish this, District 21-S will implement several communication and engagement initiatives throughout the year:
Monthly Cabinet Meetings
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Monthly District Cabinet Meetings will be conducted via Zoom to maximize participation across our large geographic district.
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Meetings will provide updates on district goals, service activities, membership growth, leadership development, finances, and upcoming events.
Monthly Communications to Club Leadership
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Regular emails will be sent to Club Presidents and Secretaries to share important district information, reminders, deadlines, training opportunities, and resources.
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Communication will focus on helping clubs achieve their goals while ensuring consistent information throughout the district.
Zone Chair Club Visits
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Zone Chairs will be encouraged to regularly visit clubs within their zones.
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These visits will provide support, identify opportunities for growth, recognize successes, and ensure clubs have the resources needed to thrive.
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Zone Chairs serve as an important link between clubs and district leadership.
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These Roar Rooms will be interactive Zoom discussions will feature Lions from throughout Arizona and beyond speaking on a variety of topics including membership, service, leadership, Lions Portal training, LCIF, club success stories, grant opportunities, and other areas of interest.
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The Roar Room will provide opportunities for learning, idea sharing, and fellowship among Lions.
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Melvin Memos
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Each month, I will continue IDG Richard Stevenson district letter called Melvin Memos, named in honor of our founder, Melvin Jones, whose birthplace in Fort Thomas, Arizona remains a source of pride for our district.
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Melvin Memos will highlight club achievements, service projects, membership successes, leadership opportunities, upcoming events, district news, and messages from Lions Club International, Multiple district and district leadership.
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The newsletter will serve as a way to celebrate our accomplishments and keep Lions informed throughout the year.
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Communication, however, is only valuable when it leads to action.
This year, our District goals will be supported by clear action plans carried out by our Global Action Team (GAT), the Global Leadership Team (GLT), Global Membership Team (GMT), Global Extension Team (GET), and Global Service Team (GST)—working hand in hand with our Zone Chairs. Together, they will provide guidance, training, encouragement, and hands-on support to every club as we strive to:
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Serve Our Communities
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Grow Our Membership
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Develop Our Leaders
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Strengthen Our Culture
Through these efforts, we will create a culture of communication, collaboration, and accountability that strengthens every club and supports our mission of service.
One of the principles I strongly believe in as District Governor is that every Lions club is unique. Each club serves a different community, has different traditions, and faces different opportunities and challenges. Because of that, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to being a successful Lions club.
The role of the District is not to tell clubs what to do. Our role is to support, guide, train, encourage, and provide resources that help clubs succeed. We are here to answer questions, share best practices, connect clubs with opportunities, and assist when challenges arise.
I fully embrace the Lions International philosophy of “Your Club, Your Way.” Clubs should have the flexibility to meet the needs of their members and communities while remaining true to the mission and values of Lionism.
District 21-S leadership, Zone Chairs, and the Global Action Team are committed to being partners with our clubs. We will listen first, offer support when needed, and work alongside clubs to help them achieve their goals.
Our clubs are the heart of Lionism. The District exists to strengthen and support those clubs so they can continue making a difference in the communities they proudly serve.
Together, we will build a culture of collaboration, respect, and service where every club is empowered to thrive — because when our clubs succeed, our district succeeds.
Yours in Lionism,
Lion Edmund Lopez
21-S District Governor
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| “WE WANT A CALENDAR TO SEE ALL ACTIVITES” This has been available since August 2025. Our Lions Google Calendar & Directory are available on lionsarizona.org. Want your Club activity listed? Simply send it to the editor! |
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Register for Upcoming Events Now!
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CLUBS – Make your plans NOW! |
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Wisdom Wednesdays
Register Now! |
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1st Wednesdays of the Month
Register Once:
https://bit.ly/LUSAWisdom
Target Audience: All LionsUSA Members
It’s all about leveling up! Every month, we dive into what makes this movement so powerful—our story, our service & how YOU fit into it. Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned Lion, there’s always more to learn, more to share, & more ways to lead. Let’s grow wiser together—because the
more you know, the bigger your impact!
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USA/Canada LEO Leadership Forum
August 4 – 9 |
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| LEOs this is a great networking & leadership opportunity. Join others, our future Lion leaders, to gain an incredible experience!!
Sponsoring Clubs – this is your chance to help sponsor attendees! This is OUR opportunity to truly help mentor our LEOs by helping them experience a gift of a lifetime. |
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USA/Canada Forum
Register NOW for the 50th!
Memphis Tennessee
September 3-5
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July’s rate is $385 and on August 1 it will go up to $400.
This is a milestone event and will be the best one yet!
For those attending – remember to share pictures of the event highlights! |
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| The Lions Edge leadership team has selected 3 candidates from our Districts
21N
Mele Talone & LaToya Lee from West Valley Empowered Voices Lions Club
And
21S Gerald Hirsh of Huachuca City Lions Club
This is a first for Lions International to create a leadership program that fully develops new leaders and introduce them into the culture of Lions. I am so proud and excited for them and know that the three selected have already more than earned it! Congratulations again!
Marsine Perry
21N DG |
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21-N Kickoff was a Success
August 1, 2026 |
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| Congratulations to DG Marsine Perry and all the Members of 21-N for a fantastic Kick-Off on Saturday August 1st! Thank you to all who showed up in lovely Williams Arizona!
We have all our Zone Chairs Training will be done in August. More information on come! |
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| Congratulations to DG Marsine Perry and all the Members of 21-N for a fantastic Kick-Off on Saturday August 1st! Thank you to all who showed up in lovely Williams Arizona! We hosted over 88 Lions AND had over 15 people who donated blood with Vitalant
We have all our Zone Chairs Training will be done in August. More information on come! |
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Congratulations Lion Linda Finley recognized as Lion of the Year! |
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| PID Lion Marie Cunning is seeking our Arizona Lions’ support in providing her International 3rd Vice President Endorsement through a Special Election during the Midyear Leadership Conference! Best Wishes PID Marie! |
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21-S Kickoff
August 8. 2026
COMING UP THIS WEEKEND – ENSURE YOU ARE REGISTERED |
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1st Council Meeting of 2026-2027
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It is with great enthusiasm that we invite you to attend the MD21 Council Meeting on Saturday, August 8, 2026, as we officially begin another year of service and collaboration for Multiple District 21. The meeting will start right after the District 21S kick-off, around 2:15 pm. |
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This gathering marks more than the start of a new administrative year—it is an opportunity to come together as one Lions family, celebrate our shared purpose, and strengthen our commitment to serving our communities as one Arizona.
The Council Meeting will include:
- Installation of the MD21 Council of Governors and Council officers
- Reports from our State Projects
- Updates from MD21 Committees
- Nomination and consideration of candidates
- Discussion of important Multiple District initiatives and future opportunities
- New business and other matters that will help shape the direction of MD21 for the coming year.
Meeting Details
Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
Time: 2:15 PM – 3:30 PM
Venue: Sun Lakes United Methodist Church
9248 E. Riggs Road
Sun Lakes, AZ 85248
As our theme set by CC Keith Alexander reminds us:
“Planting Kindness. Growing Leaders. Harvesting Hope.”
Every Lion’s presence strengthens our fellowship and our ability to make a lasting impact. Whether you are a long-time member or newly joined, your participation, ideas, and voice are invaluable as we continue building a stronger Multiple District and expanding our service to those who need us most.
We encourage all Lions to attend, participate, and help shape the future of MD21.
We look forward to welcoming you on August 8.
Yours in Service,
On Behalf of the Council Chair & Council of Governors
PDG Farhana Shifa
Council Secretary MD-21
(619) 549-0005
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| CLUBS make plans now to participate in a Service Event in remembrance of 9/11. Details will be shared in a upcoming special edition. September 11, 2026 – let’s mark this 25th Anniversary with Lions visibility and participation in Community Service!
Additionally – Share YOUR 9/11 story with the Editor. Where were you when you learned of the attacks? What did you or your family do during this time.
We Will Never Forget |
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There were 107 Lions and Friends that attended the Lions Day at the Diamondbacks. Now we have been invited to attend the Arizona Cardinals vs. the LA Rams on Sunday, November 15th at 2:05 pm. Tickets are on a first come, first serve basis … so please buy your tickets as early as possible.
Are you ready for some football? Let’s Go Big Red.
Please use the link or the QR code on the flyer to purchase your discounted group rate tickets.
Yours in Lionism
PIP Joe Preston
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Lions Pride Podcast Shares Arizona Lions Stories
The Lions Pride Podcast, hosted by Lion Gerald “Jerry” Hursh (MD21-D21S Zone 2 Chair) and Co-Host Lion Laurie Fivecoat, is connecting Lions across Arizona by highlighting service, leadership, and community impact.
Each episode features interviews with District leaders, club members, and community partners, offering ideas on service projects, membership growth, and club success. The podcast aims to inspire, inform, and give Lions a platform to share their stories.
“The goal is to give Lions a voice and celebrate the great work happening in our communities,” said Hursh.
*** Listen to the Lion’s Pride Podcast and follow here
To be featured or share your club’s story, contact:
huachucacitylionsclub@gmail.com
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Mark Your Calendar to Support Club Events
Wish to Partner, Support or just see creative Service Ideas?
Here is your chance!! |
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CCN FOOD Pantry
August 6th
Each Thursday or by Appointment |
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West Valley Empowered Voices – DONATION HELP NEEDED |
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When you support West Valley Empowered Voices, you’re investing in families rediscovering their roots, seniors aging safely at home, students pursuing new opportunities, and communities finding strength in unity. Your generosity—whether through a monetary gift or a donated item—fuels service projects, scholarships, outreach efforts, and global initiatives that restore hope, while also providing immediate, tangible support to individuals and families in need. Whether you give $10, $100, or provide essential items that directly serve those in need, your contribution creates a ripple effect—feeding, teaching, clothing, empowering, and transforming lives. Together, we are the hands that serve, the voices that uplift, and the hearts that make change possible.
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Raising Our Roots – WVEV Lions
August 8 – September 12 – October 10 |
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EAC’s ALERT Eyeglass Processing
August 16th 11:00 – 2:00 |
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Florence Lions HOG Raffle
Order Your Tickets NOW!
Winners Announced on New Years Day |
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West Valley Empowered Voices Lions
ALERT Satellite – August 29th |
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Jim Click Tickets for GREAT Prizes
South Tucson Lions
Purchase Now to December 4th
Let us know if you would like any. They are $25 each or 5 for $100.
They make a great gift, while supporting all the community service we do! |
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Chino Valley Territorial Days
September 5th |
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Camelback Mountain Lions Club 7rh Annual Tree Planting
September 12 |
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Walk for a Cause – CHAMP 5K Run/Walk
Support Children & Families fighting Childhood Cancer
September 19th |
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Lions Global Business Connections
West Valley Empowered Voices & Phoenix Barangay Lions
September 26th |
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Peoria Sunset Lions & The Inspire Project
September 27 |
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Save The Date!
RSVP Today for our FUN-draiser to support programs at Luke AFB for airmen and their families! It will be so much fun and benefit a great cause! https://signup.com/go/oaepUse |
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Chino Valley Lioness Fall Craft & Vendor Boutique
October 2 & 3 |
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Plan NOW for White Cane Safety Day
Annually on October 15th |
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Florence Lions Club 3rd Annual Ghouls & Giggles
October 18 |
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Youth Mariachi Fiesta
South Tucson Lions
November 8th |
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2026 – 2027 Peace Poster Contest
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PEACE POSTER CONTEST
For nearly four decades, the Lions International Peace Poster Contest has given children ages 11-13 the opportunity to share what peace means to them through art. Each year, Lions clubs around the world sponsor the contest in schools and organized youth groups, giving young people the opportunity to be recognized at local and international levels — and awarded a grand prize of US$5,000 — for their creativity in sharing their vision of the current year’s theme.
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Important deadlines
If you’re planning to sponsor a contest, keep the following dates top of mind so you don’t miss any submission deadlines.
Club
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January 15: Kits go on sale in the Lions Shop online. Order Physical or Digital Kits
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October 1: Deadline to purchase kits from the Lions Shop online.
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November 15: Postmark deadline for a club to send one winning poster (per contest sponsored) to the district governor.
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December 1: Postmark deadline for a club not belonging to a district to send one winning entry to the Brand & Creative Department at Lions International Headquarters.
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February 1: Club presidents of international winners will be notified on or before this date.
District
- December 1: Postmark deadline for a district governor to send one winning district poster to multiple district council chairperson.
- December 1: Postmark deadline for a district governor not belonging to a multiple district to send one winning poster to the Brand & Creative Department at Lions International Headquarters.
Multiple district
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Club Excellence Requirements
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Please see the adjustments to the 2026/2027 Excellence Award Criteria.
The Excellence Awards honor clubs and Lion leaders who demonstrate outstanding leadership, membership growth, impactful service and humanitarian contributions.
The webpage has been updated to reflect the updates to the criteria in all languages.
In the meantime, any questions, please reach out at clubexcellenceaward@lionsclubs.org
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| Accurate information is a necessity in the Portal and the above chart reflects exactly WHO should be able to see WHAT based on your Official Lion’s Title. |
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International Convention
Hong Kong Highlights
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| Fantastic Video from the International Convention – ENJOY |
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| International Conventions are an incredible experience of Lions coming together
from around the world! |
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Incredible Entertainment ensures enjoyment for all!
MAKE YOUR PLANS NOW for the 109th Convention in Washington DC |
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Peace Poster & Essay Winners |
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PEACE POSTER – 2025-2026
A huge congratulations to more of the 2025-26 Peace Poster finalists!
This year’s theme was “Together As One,” embodying a world of love and tolerance across any and all social boundaries.
Congratulations to this year’s finalists, we can’t wait to see the posters for next year’s contest!
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2025 – 2026 Grand Prize Winner |
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2025-26 Peace Poster Grand Prize Winner, Yifan He, sponsored by the Dalian Gao Er Fu Lions Club of China
View the outstanding poster – Note: Unable to save the image https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9869/292752_1.jpg
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| Take the time to view this video!!
She created a most striking, moving and thought provoking poster |
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| Such incredible young people and LIONS promote excellence around the world! |
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World Record Event and Arizona was there to represent! |
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Message from PCC Rosemarie
The 108th Lions Clubs International Convention in Hong Kong (July 3-7) was truly a global family reunion—bringing together amazing Lions from every corner of the world.
It was a wonderful celebration of friendship, fellowship, service, and our shared commitment to making a difference in our communities. Reconnecting with old friends, meeting new ones, and sharing unforgettable experiences reminded us that, although we come from different countries and cultures, we are united by one heart and one mission: We Serve.
Thank you to everyone who made this convention so memorable. Until we meet again, may we continue to serve with compassion, lead with purpose, and inspire hope wherever we go.
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You’ve heard of Where’s Waldo……Let’s Play Where are our new DGs! |
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| The Key Highlight of course was the official pinning of the District Governors!
Congratulations to 21N DG Marsine Perry & 21S Ed Lopez |
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PLAN NOW FOR THE 109TH INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
HOSTED IN WASHINGTON D.C. |
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The Global Action Team functions at the MD, District and Club Levels,
but what exactly does this mean? |
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We’re thrilled to introduce our new Chairperson, A.P. Singh! Hailing from Kolkata, India, Chairperson Singh has been a Lion since 1984. Let’s give him a warm welcome in the comments!
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LCIF provides numerous grants and support for a variety of urgent humanitarian needs and specialty, targeted projects. YOUR donations are applied 100% to those needs!
Just think – Since 1968, nearly 10 million people have received free cataract surgeries thanks to LCIF grants. These grants are possible thanks to the generosity of donors like you!
Join us today by making a donation and you can change lives, too.
More information will be coming on the other areas of the GAT Team!
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New Lions, Sponsors & Club Report
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Reporting as of July 1, 2026 |
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| New Members for 21-N & 21-S = 17 |
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Our Pride is Growing |
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Club Charter Celebrations
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Wishing the Tanque Verde Valley Lions Club of 21-S
a very Happy 20th Anniversary of Service to the Community.
They’ve made significant impacts in the areas of Vision, Environment, Hunger and a strong focus on Youth Services through Diabetic baskets of healthy snacks for schools, Read Between the Lions and the Little Free Libraries! We appreciate your years of Service…..and now
the Club is going through a change!
Shall we say they are going to the dogs?? |
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August is Spinal Muscular Atrophy
(SMA) Awareness Month |
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| August is Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Awareness Month
Spinal muscular atrophy is a genetic condition that affects muscle strength and movement. It can look different for every person — some individuals use power wheelchairs, some need assistance with daily tasks, and many use adaptive technology.
At Lions Camp Tatiyee, we’re proud to serve campers living with SMA. Camp is designed to support a wide range of mobility and medical needs, with accessible cabins, adaptive equipment, and trained staff who make it possible for campers to fully participate in camp life. From creative activities to time with friends, campers engage in ways that work best for them.
This month, we’re recognizing SMA Awareness Month and celebrating the campers who bring resilience, humor, and connection to our camp community. |
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Welcome to the new 2026-2027 Camp Tatiyee Board |
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Arizona Lions Vision & Hearing Foundation
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Official Screening Report |
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Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial
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Proposal to Designate ALIYE as a
MD-21 Statewide Project
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| .Lions of Arizona – You are welcome to provide your comments on this proposal to the MD-21 Council of Governors by emailing CS Farhana at shifa489@gmail.com |
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ALIYE Board for 2026 – 2027 |
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The Arizona Lions International Youth Exchange Board as of 9/1/26 will be:
President Lion Nikki Perril
VP:!Pratik Panda
Secretary: Lion Richard Stevenson
Treasurer: Lion Jerry Hursch @ jerryhursch@ gmail.com
No one has been assigned to Youth Exchange Coordinator at this time.
Outgoing President,
Elizabeth Virant
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How Many Numbers can you find? |
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Can you Solve the puzzle below? |
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Send Your Answers to the Editor w/ Subject Line FUN at sdpalazzolo@yahoo.com |
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