December 2025 • Vol. 400, No. 6 DIGITAL CANYON STATE LION
Official Publication of the Lions of Arizona, Multiple District 21 Celebrating over 100 years of Lions service to the people of Arizona www.lionsarizona.org
What’s in this December issue:
Early Bird Tickets for Celebration of Lionism, Call for Candidates,
Plan for Global Week of Hunger and MUCH MUCH MORE
Use the hotlinks to directly “jump” to a subject of interest and USE the “Print Buttons” or “Read More” or “Video”
for easy to print/read/watch additional information! It is our way to help reduce the scrolling, while still providing Information!
Whether you and your family celebrate Christmas or some other holiday this month, both Lion Karen and I extend our best wishes for the season.
Last month, we completed a successful MidYear Conference and Leadership Forum. It was a distinct pleasure hosting International Director Nadine Bushell and her companion to the Valley of the Sun from her home in Trinidad. While attendance was less than expected, Lions attending the sessions were overwhelmingly favorable about the sessions, the learning, and the sharing of information. Good job, MD-GLT Su-Lin Trepanitis for setting up the training.
Also, KUDOS to SVDG Ed Lopez and his leadership with the Globe-Miami disaster relief effort that was shared at the Forum.
The Council meeting that preceded the Forum was business-like and productive. The Council approved two added sections to the Procedures Manual and directed two proposed changes to the MD Constitution to the CBL Committee for procedural review. Click below to read details of (A) the proposed change in dues for the districts and multiple district, and (B) the proposed change to the allocation of revenues and expenses as outlined in Article VII – Multiple District Funding.
We’ve already begun planning the MD21 state Convention that will be held June 12-14, 2026, at the Doubletree in Phoenix/Mesa. More details coming, but mark the date as we will be hosting International First Vice President Mark Lyons of Connecticut. Lion Mark will be inducted a few weeks after our convention as the International President in Hong Kong.
Look elsewhere in this issue of Canyon State Lion for more information about the state Convention. With Flag Day on Sunday of the event, we’re inviting everyone to wear red-white-and-blue, as we’ll be only weeks before our America250 AZ celebration. Convention plans include the parade of club banners for Saturday at the luncheon, as well as several learning workshops that morning and afternoon.
Focus will be on “Meet the Next Prez” with many opportunities to go one-on-one with the incoming Lions International President. We’re talking about a “Town Hall” event during the convention, where you may have an opportunity to ask FVP Mark a question.
Also in this issue of the Canyon State Lion you’ll see up-to-date statistics of membership growth, include PDG Doug Harvey’s “Maui Contest” front-runners. An announcement will be included in the January 2026 edition about a new marketing effort to help bring in more Lions members.
Virtual Council Meeting in February
The third council meeting will be an online, virtual meeting on Thursday, February 19, 2026, two days prior the 21-South district convention. The zoom link will become active 30-minutes prior the gavel at 7pm, and the agenda will be published in the February CSL. Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84168077072?pwd=cRsbPM1rlWaYdek3EGkk3FefbbTwku.1
On your list of things to attend, plan a trip to Fort Thomas in January, as the Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial conducts its “Celebration of Lionism” on the weekend nearest the birthday of our founder, Melvin Jones, who was born near there in 1879. ID Marcinkowski from Alaska will be the keynote presenter during the celebration Saturday, January 9. See below for more details about the 57th Annual Memorial Celebration and make plans to join us!
Look for the new Memorial pin, available only at the Celebration event, for commemorating the impact of Melvin Jones on the world and his commitment to “We Serve a World in Need.” And about pin trading, PCC Phil Castrovinci could use your help. Call him at (480) 258-9049.
And don’t forget to have your club submit a nominee for the Lions Youth Exchange program. The 21-South C. Kirby Smythe Youth Exchange is seeking candidates to attend a multi-week youth camp in Europe – perhaps Italy, Germany or Estonia – as part of the international youth program. Almost every Lions club is involved with scholarships to our youth; consider gifting them a life-altering experience by attending a Lions Youth Camp. For more information, contact Tony Luick at tonyhl@comcast.net or (520) 850-6725.
In closing, again thank you for making 2025 a successful Lions year in Multiple District 21. Enjoy your holiday season and we’ll look forward to seeing you at the district conventions in February. Should you have any questions, please reach out by text to phone: (928) 830-8236.
Your Servant Leader CC Ken Leja
Governor’s Report – District 21-N
Dear Lions of District 21N,
As we enter this season of gratitude, celebration, and reflection, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation for the remarkable work each of you has done throughout the year. Your dedication to service continues to strengthen our clubs, uplift our communities, and inspire those around us.
Let us continue the membership growth momentum we’ve built. Every new member brings fresh energy, ideas, and hands willing to serve. Please keep inviting, engaging, and empowering others to join our mission of service.
December also marks the beginning of an exciting lineup of all-Arizona Lions events. I encourage every Lion and every club to participate, collaborate, and showcase the impact we make when we stand united. Together, we amplify our service and our presence across the state.
As we prepare for the new year, I ask each club to begin identifying and nurturing your next generation of leaders. Strong leadership ensures continuity, growth, and the long-term success of our clubs and our district. Let us invest in our future by mentoring and supporting those who are ready to step forward.
Thank you for your continued passion, service, and commitment. Wishing you and your families a joyful holiday season and a strong finish to 2025.
Yours in service, Maryjane “MJ” Barjose
21-N District Governor
mjane1670@yahoo.com
Governor’s Report – District 21-S
We’re halfway through our Lion year, and our focus on engaging younger Lions is paying off. Their skills and energy are infectious, and teaming them with seasoned Lions creates great synergy. We are picking up momentum to make the rest of this Lion year incredible while establishing a strong foundation.
Mark your calendars for the January Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial event, celebrating his birthplace right here in 21-S. Next we’re currently planning the February 21 District Convention for morefun. Please reach out with any ideas or suggestions! Additionally, we will have our 3rd Cabinet Meeting be held online on February 19. The link is provided along with the save the date for our convention below in this issue.. Finally, don’t miss incoming International President Mark Lyon speaking at the MD21 State Convention in June! A great opportunity for all Arizona Lions.
Clubs, please identify and nurture leaders to grow our leadership pipeline. As you serve, remember to balance community work with time for family, friends, and yourself.
Wishing you all the very best this Holiday Season!
Thank you for being a Lion!
Richard Stevenson
21-S District Governor
ki6baq@me.com
BIG FUN from the
Birthplace of
Melvin Jones
Our new Lions Google Calendar & Directory available on lionsarizona.org . Want your Club activity listed? Simply send it to the editor! CLUBS – Make your Project Plans nowwith complete full year insight on key dates!
Order Early Bird Tickets NOW for big savings! $35 Early Bird Tickets Deadline is 12/15 – Don’t Wait
It is a fabulous opportunity to renew our commitment and
center on the vision of Lionism.
Celebration will be held at the Melvin Jones Memorial –
site of Melvin Jones Birthplace!
Commemorative polos for the 50th anniversary Forum in Memphis are available to pre-order. Guarantee you have your shirt in your chosen size ready for pickup at the Memphis Forum Sept. 3-5, 2026. You must pick up at the Forum, or have your designee pick up. These WILL NOT be shipped. Keep in mind only a few shirts will be available for purchase onsite for $5 more than pre-order.
SUPPORT these Clubs with ATTENDANCE or DONATIONS
as they serve their Communities and WE support each other!
Events are listed on the Lion Calendar on https://lionsarizona.org/
Cookie Packaging for Seniors
M.I.L.K. Make an Investment with Love and Kindness – one of our community partners is looking for some help to bake some cookies for the seniors and the underserved for the Holidays. Bake at least 3 dozen cookies, no nuts, fudge or peanut butter please.
If you’re available, we will be at Verde Groves the morning of 12/3 to repack the cookies. I am in need of at least 10 dozen cookies for the elderly and underserved seniors.
Thanks Mari
Safford P.O.W.W.O.W
December 6
Chino Valley Lioness Lions Craft Boutique
December 5 & 6
Arizona Jr & High School Club Pickleball Tournament December 5 & 6
Pinetop President Lion Kenny Cail is also the National High School Club Pickleball Director. Below are fliers for the upcoming Tournament being held at the Arizona Athletic Grounds!
VOLUTEERS NEEDED: There is a need for Umpires, Desk Support and Court Runners!
Contact Lion Kenny at kencail77@gmail.com if you or any club members can help!
Phx Saguaro Cyber Lions & The 2000 Project by EQZ Fundraiser Buy Tickets Now – Drawing December 24th
Attention Valley area Lions and Lions Clubs,
Pride of Scottsdale Lions club’s members, Cindy and Jim, are the co-founders of Arizona LEOS. They host the Shop with a Cop events last 25-26 years.
This year, 3 weekends in December, they need help for gift wrapping volunteers.
The event schedules are following:
12/6/2025 Saturday 8:00 AM @ Walmart Scottsdale 101 and Chaparral, 4915 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
12/7/2025 Sunday 8:00 AM @ Walmart Phoenix Metro Center, 9600 N Metro Pkwy W, Phoenix, AZ 85051
12/13/2025 Saturday 8:00 AM @ Walmart Mesa 202 and Dobson, 857 N Dobson Rd, Mesa, AZ 85201
12/20/2025 Saturday 8:00 AM @ Walmart Chandler/Gilbert, 2750 E Germann Rd, Chandler, AZ 85286
In addition, they still accept donations for hosting more kids. If you or your club can donate some, that would be great. $100 donation can host 1 youth for one of the events.
If you or your club can participate, please let me know.
WICKED – Gathering Together for Good December 11th
Florence Food Bank – Adjusted Date for Holiday December 19
The monthly food bank distribution in Florence in the parking lot at Jason Lopez Memorial Park (formerly Heritage Park) will be Friday, December 19, at 8 AM. Please share this news with those in need in our community this fall. The Florence Lions Club is proud to join together with other local community groups and volunteers to help our neighbors in need through this monthly food bank.
Please note: We are now starting at 8 AM due to our change to winter hours. Also, please note that November and December’s dates have moved from the last Friday of the month due to the holidays.
CCN FOOD Pantry
Each Thursday or by Appointment
Sun Village Lions Annual Pancake Breakfast
January 19
Chandler Lions Taste & Tunes
January 31, 2026
Sun City Host 2nd Annual
Golf Tournament
March 14th
Tucson Downtown Lions
1st Annual Chili Cook Off CHALLENGE
March 21
Lion Becky Fassett of Tucson Downtown Lions Club would like to challenge Lion Amy Sawyer of Safford Lions Club to participate in a friendly “Chili Dual”. Lion Amy Sawyer, are you up for the challenge?
Who’s “spicy” enough to make the second challenge?
We will be posting rules in the coming weeks. Our hope is 4hr simmer before tasting.
Come on Lions, let’s have some fun and really see just what club/member has the best chili!
Bring on the next Challenge!
LEARN is live on the Lion Portal
Easy access to training opportunities directly the top navigation bar of the Lion Portal. Wish to learn more about Lions or understand and develop skills for greater effectiveness within your Club? It is at your fingertips! Watch the video below for easy guidance!
LEARN is now available on the Lion Portal!
Read Between the Lions
Improves Reading
WOULD YOU LIKE TO HELP KIDS IMPROVE THEIR READING?
Statistically, 20% of all people have difficulty tracking with their eyes. As high as 80% of kids in Special Education classes can’t read well enough to keep up. Read Between the Lions (RBTL) is a reading skills program that focuses on the reader’s ability to perform the jump eye movements necessary for reading. There are many skills that allow us to read. This skill is one that we can identify and improve with practice.
The Read Between the Lions program has been proven to work well for a Lions Club service project after the vision screening has been completed. The jump eye movement or tracking problem cannot be corrected with eyeglasses. The goal is to get a team of Lions trained to do the eye tracking testing and test as many kids as possible. Once identified, families can work with their kids to train eyes to work together, using repetitive focusing exercises done in time to a metronome (or phone app.)
The timed testing procedure is easy and takes 5-10 minutes per child. The instructions and worksheets and record keeping forms are all available online at www.readbetweenthelions.org. free of charge. Just the printing and your time is all that is required from your Lions Club, whether you have one tester or a team, it is a worthwhile service.
Families and teachers of those who fail are informed about the remediation (practicing sessions at home). Practice must be done for a period of about 30 days for 5-10 minutes a day. Progress checks should be done by the testers and a follow-up test done in 30 days.
Those interested in learning more about the program can contact the Arizona contact person: Muriel Stevens muriel43506@yahoo.com or text at 520-668-6498. Address is: 14500 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd #341, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Lion Muriel Stevens explains the RBTL Program. This program compliments our current vision screening with our supported schools!
Clubs should be taking the steps to update your use of the current Lions International logo. Make plans to update banners, vests, materials, etc.
Importance of Club Membership Vetting
At a time with our focus on Membership Growth – WHY would we not accept anyone who desires to give to their community? We have prided ourselves on welcoming everyone into our Clubs! Our diversity helps us meet community needs better!
Most Clubs have it written in their by-laws that membership must be reviewed and approved by their Board of Directors. It makes sense, since a rigorous vetting helps preserve a club’s culture and reputation, and keeps the Club (and its members and staff) safe. But we’re Lions – and the reality is, if they pay their dues and help with projects – we welcome them into our pride.
The truth about club member vetting is often a process based on mere nomination, lacking any in-depth checks and factual understanding. This limited scrutiny, relying more on personal impressions than concrete data, leads to unexpected outcomes with new members. If not careful, at times we open the Club to certain liabilities.
Things to consider:
Returning of a former member. This should be cause for pure celebration; however, be willing to research the reasons for having left a given club. Is this someone who due to life changes or having moved is now ready to return OR is this someone where a Club removed the member. BIG RED FLAG
Members may choose to transfer to other Clubs, that for a number of reasons is just a better fit. Fantastic! However, do your due diligence on an individual who has a hyper-fixation on financial or personal gains. We want to protect our membership from potential scam situations. Bigger than life personalities may require some additional research.
Consider the giving heart of a Lion. We all know of situations where we’ve directly helped each other in times of need. We SHOULD support each other in times of needs; but we also know that situations have occurred that have impacted Club or Project funds that disappear in questionable ways.
A Clubs culture is unique and we should be adding individuals who enhance that culture.
We currently have a situation, where a past member is trying to rejoin Lions. Many of know the individual’s name and history. As a Club – we are here for you. If you have an inquiry that seems odd or your are filling pressured – PLEASE CONTACT myself or your District Staff.
Sheila Palazzolo – Editor
Canyon State Lion Newsletter
sdpalazzolo@yahoo.com
520.603.8004
Info from your 2025-2026
Global Action Team
LCIF & Giving Tuesday
As you prepare to open your hearts in support of worthy causes tomorrow, December 2nd, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to @LCIFLions. Your donation will help fund grants and programs that address urgent challenges like childhood cancer, hunger, diabetes, disaster relief, environmental sustainability, youth empowerment, and vision care. Your gift of any amount will empower Lions Service and continue to provide much needed support to Lions in communities across the United States and the World.
lionsclubs.org/givingtuesday #GivingTuesday #LCIF
We thank you!!
PDG Bobbie Ravenkamp MD21
PCC Rosemarie Gabriel 21N
PDG Jack Mauller 21S
Global Action Team – Extension
Multiple District 21
Global Action Team –Leadership
MD-21 GLT – Su-Lin Trepanitis
Emerging Lion Leaders Institute
Incredible Opportunity
An intense, three-day leadership course that will be held
conveniently local and will focus on
developing “young” Lions (regardless of age)
Lions and Leos who wish to pursue leadership roles within their club will benefit from attending the Emerging Lions Leadership Institute (ELLI) that will be hosted by Multiple District 21.
At ELLI, you will learn the history and goals of Lions International and Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF), develop strategies for becoming an effective leader, and collaborate with a diverse group of fellow Lions and Leos.
Eligibility Requirements: Eligible Lions and Leos should have successfully served on a club committee, have not yet attained the position of club president, and have not previously attended ELLI. Club first vice presidents are strongly encouraged to attend.
Attend ELLI near you, January 23-25, 2026, at one of three venues:
Phoenix/Tempe (east valley),
Tucson, or
Phoenix/Glendale (west valley).
This will be a special, hybrid edition of ELLI, authorized by the Lions Leadership Development division, whereby three venues of 24 Lions/Leos (max.) will participate both in-person and via telecommunications to the other venues. Leadership sessions will be presented via digital technology by a faculty member to all three venues; related activities reinforcing the learning activity will be moderated locally by other faculty members.
Participants will be expected to work within their group to make a presentation to all attendees on the final day. This could be FREE if you complete successfully! Read More Below.
Our second Week of Service is from January 3-11, 2026, and the spotlight is on HUNGER. Please start planning now.
One of the United Nations Sustainable Goals is to End Hunger. This includes achieving food security, improving nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture. Steady progress towards these goals is being made, but there is a long way to go. Lions can play a vital role in this effort, and we invite every Lions club to participate in our Hunger Service Week.
We can promote wellness and nutrition by providing meals and community engagement for local families in need. According to Oxford University, “eating with community can improve quality of life and overall feeling of hopelessness.”
It is cold in January, and we have a lot of homeless families. Consider partnering with a local food bank to host an event and provide a warm, safe, indoor relief area and serve hot food and drink.
One is six children in the USA are food unsecure. Many schools need assistance in feeding their students and providing support to their families. Again, partner with a local food bank.
It is amazing how successful a food drive can be, if you just ask your neighbors and friends for food donations. Then donate that food to a local food bank.
Although it may not be able to be completed by January, have you considered applying for a District LCIF Hunger Grant? They range from $10,000 to $150,000 and are used to strengthen infrastructure and provide essential equipment for Lion led hunger relief efforts. They can be used for school feeding programs, construction or expansions of food banks, feeding center or storage facilities, the purchase of refrigerators and freezers, and food storage facilities for perishable food, vehicles to transport food, and more. For more information go to lionsclubs.org and search LCIF Hunger Grants.
Lions, please start making plans now. Be creative, have fun, and serve like crazy. Together we can make large impact in addressing Hunger needs is Arizona.
Joe Preston, District 21S Service Chairperson
Diabetes Awareness & Movement
Several events were held in support of Diabetes Awareness during the month of November. Thank you everyone! A special thank you and a job well done to Diabetes Chair Lion @Emma P Rosales for the highly successful dual event of a Diabetes Walk and Zumba! As we’ve learned movement is highly effective in management of blood sugar issues. A huge thank you to all the Lions who came and supported a great cause!
Peoria Sunset Lions Shining a Light on Diabetes was another amazing project to bring awareness. Such a moving experience.
South Tucson Lionsgiving
South Tucson Lions are pleased to share the great work we accomplished in collaboration with Sunnyside Unified School District. Together, we were able to provide70 turkeys and food bagsto 70 families in our community.
Please click the link below to find a brief description of our collaboration with SUSD, quotes from two families who received assistance.
Thank you, Lions, for your continued support and commitment to service. A heartfelt thank you as well to our Lion volunteersfor assisting in preparing the food bags and helping distribute the turkeys and food bags to families. Your generosity and teamwork made this effort truly meaningful.
A special thank you to Lion John Considine for heading up this project—your leadership and dedication made this effort possible.
WOW – 30th Charter Anniversary!
We recognize and congratulate your years of service
KUDOS 21-N Surprise Sun Village
INCREDIBLE!!!
21-S Cochise Stronghold celebrates their 60th Charter Anniversary!
Safford Lions Celebrate 75th Anniversary
CONGRATULATIONS
Camp Tatiyee
As we prepare for Giving Tuesday, we ask that you help us make Camp Tatiyee possible for every camper this summer. We want to touch the hearts of as many campers as we can fit through our doors & we can only do that with your help!
Every dollar counts! We have put together a visual to demonstrate that any amount you can give will add to the magic of camp! Pick your contribution and help our campers make summertime memories in 2026!
If you don’t want to stop there…. opt-in to make your donation a monthly contribution to have lasting impact!
PLAN AHEAD and SAVE
Tickets Only $35 until 12/15/25 We are SO privileged to have our
Founder’s Birthplace in our backyard!
ENGAGE & be a part of special celebration
*** Overnight accommodations are available at the Springhill Suites Marriott, 2855 W. US-70 in Thatcher. For the special Lions rate of $134/night, call the hotel direct at 928-428-6900 and note code: Lions2026.***
It is SO easy to secure tickets! Register NOW to save $
NOTE: When using the QR Code – please be aware of an OPTIONAL donation to Zeffy! You have the option to choose OTHER and place any amount, including $0.00.
Zeffy is an application similar to PayPal created for Non-Profits.
Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial |
15756 West US-70 | Fort Thomas, Arizona 85536-0163
21-S District Projects
ALERT – AZ Lions Eyeglass
Recycling Terminal
AZ Youth Exchange – C Kirby Smithe
Calling all Clubs!
Exciting opportunity for your Club to sponsor a Youth for an International Camp!
There are now 75 camps listed for 2026 Summer. Applications can now be submitted. I have received no applications thus far. Remember, each applicant can choose up to three camps for their priority. The sooner they submit, the better the chances of getting their first choice.
This digital Canyon State Lion is one of YOUR
primary communication tools. We are expanding the
Communication Tool Box to ensure a variety of options
for Lions to receive information.
Please submit your articles and photos via email to:
sdpalazzolo@yahoo.com
for publication in the digital Canyon State Lion
by the 25th of the month preceding publication date.
