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First, congratulations to the new Haitian American Lions Club! We are all excited to meet you all and be by your side as we serve our brothers and sisters across Arizona.
Join Us for the Arizona MD-21 Mid-year Leadership Conference!
Mark your calendars, Arizona Lions! We are thrilled to invite you to the Arizona MD-21 Mid-year Conference and 2nd Council Meeting, taking place this November 6-7. This conference will focusing on leadership, service, and the future of Lionism in Arizona.
We have an incredible lineup of events and important business to attend to. Your participation is vital as we come together to strengthen our “Pride” and chart our course for the remainder of the year.
Conference Highlights:
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Special Guest: We are honored to host International Director Daniel Marney Elkins as our special guest speaker. ID Elkins has been a dynamic presence in our recent leadership forums, and we look forward to his insights on service and Lionism.
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Guiding Lion Certification: Elevate your skills with our intensive two-day training program led by Dereck Davis. This session is designed for Arizona Lions who are ready to become certified Guiding Lions and support the growth and health of our clubs.
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Training. You can expect more of the high-quality training sessions you’ve gotten used it.
This Mid-year Leadership Conference is more than just a meeting; it is an opportunity for fellowship, learning, and collaboration. Whether you are looking to refine your leadership skills, get involved in new service projects, or simply connect with fellow Lions from across the state, there is something for everyone.
We look forward to seeing you there as we continue our mission to serve our communities with passion and purpose.
Together, we lead to serve, and together, we make a difference. We hope to see you in November!
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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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Hello District 21N!
Our Kickoff was more than the start of a new Lions year—it was a call to action and a celebration of the leaders who will help District 21N move forward with purpose. Together, we are focused on retaining our current members, chartering four new clubs, and growing by 100 members beyond our current membership. We have so much to celebrate from this past year, and even more to look forward to, including a long list of Chevrons coming your way. Across the great state of Arizona, our Lions continue to rise up, serve boldly, and collaborate with heart—and I could not be prouder.
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Multi-club inductions are a powerful example of what happens when we work as one pride: they build collaboration, reduce costs for new clubs, and allow established clubs to mentor and strengthen those just beginning their journey. As we step into this new year with renewed energy and ambitious goals, it is imperative that all Club Presidents update their current officers in the portal. Our District GLT, 2nd VDG Dereck Davis, will also be sharing information about leadership training available at the Mid-Year Leadership Conference on November 6th–8th, 2026. Zone training took place in August so our Region and Zone Chairs are ready for their first club visits in October. GET Mele Talone and I have also been speaking with a potential new club in Peoria, with more to come on that exciting opportunity—as well as a new Leo Club forming in Avondale! Thank you PDG MJ Barjose on spearheading that opportunity!
Our 21N Marketing Chair, Lion Rick Perkins, has devoted countless hours to building communication and connection through our new 21N District Facebook page. Thank you also to Lion Brian Woloshin for your support in helping bring this page to life. This new platform gives us a place to celebrate what is happening across the District and to share the inspiring videos Lion Rick has created about growing District 21N. One recent video highlights the cleanup of our historic Melvin Jones Foundation grounds in Fort Thomas, the birthplace of our founder, Melvin Jones. Lions from multiple clubs joined students from a high school in Safford and Eastern Arizona College to make a meaningful difference. Their work reminds us that when we come together, our impact multiplies. There is power in numbers, and what was accomplished in a single day was truly inspiring. Kudos to the current Melvin Jones Foundation board for organizing this effort and bringing these resources together. Lion Rick Perkins also created a call-to-action video from the event, including information on how we can support future efforts. Make certain watch the video below under State & District Projects!
I have received wonderful comments and thoughtful feedback from our 21N Kickoff. Lions appreciated the cost, the half-day format, the location, the event space, the welcoming staff, and the opportunity to network with the Leadership Team. I value feedback because every comment—whether positive or constructive—helps us grow stronger. I am excited for the year ahead and have already begun adding club visits to my calendar. As I visit your clubs, please know that, as your Governor, I am only one of many resources available to you. Our entire Global Action Team stands ready to support you, and they are just one call away.
I look forward to seeing some of you at the upcoming USA/Canada Forum in Tennessee. Installations are still taking place inn August and into September, and every gathering is another opportunity to strengthen our bonds and renew our commitment to service. When we move forward together, united as one pride, there is no limit to what District 21N can accomplish.
“Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you face hardships and choose not to surrender, that is strength.”
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United 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
Hello Fellow Lions,
As we begin the 2026–2027 Lions year, I am honored to serve as District Governor of District 21-S. We are off to a busy and exciting start, guided by our theme:
Serve Our Communities • Grow Our Membership • Develop Our Leaders • Strengthen Our Culture
A Strong Start
On August 8, more than 120 Lions attended our District 21-S Kickoff at Sun Lakes United Methodist Church. We focused on service, membership growth, forming new clubs, retention, leadership development, and creating a positive club culture where every Lion feels respected and valued.
My message remains simple: the District is here to help and guide our clubs, not tell them what to do. “Your Club, Your Way.”
On August 22, we held training for our Zone Chairs and District leaders at Sun Bird Golf Resort in Chandler. Our Zone Chairs are now scheduling training throughout the District for Presidents, Secretaries, Membership, Lions Portal, and other areas of need. I encourage club officers and any Lion interested in learning about lions and becoming a future leader to attend.
Our Roar Room Zoom discussions will also provide opportunities to learn, ask questions, and exchange ideas. September sessions are scheduled for September 2 at 6:30 and September 16 at 6:30 p.m.
Welcome Arizona HACSED!
I am excited to welcome our newest club, Arizona HACSED Lions Club, led by President Rachelle Lamy.
A special thank you to Lion Farhana Shifa, Chandler Lions Club, and Mesa Thunderbird Lions Club for their work and support in sponsoring this new club.
Arizona HACSED will be supported by Guiding Lions PDG Farhana Shifa of Chandler Lions Club and Regional Chair Lion Judith Ahlberg of Mesa Fountain of the Sun Lions Club.
Welcome to the District 21-S family! The addition of Arizona HACSED moves us closer to our goal of forming new clubs and expanding our ability to serve.
A Busy September
Members of Multiple District 21 will attend the USA/Canada Lions Leadership Forum in Memphis, September 3–6. With more than 75 seminars available, this is a tremendous opportunity to learn and bring ideas back to Arizona. I look forward to sharing our Memphis adventure in the October Canyon State Lion.
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On September 11, Lions are needed at State Farm Stadium in Glendale to assist with packaging food. Please see the August 18 Special Canyon State Lions publication for information on volunteering. After 25 years, we need to remember this date. Wear your Lions Shirts.
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September is also Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. I encourage Lions to Go Gold! Wear a gold ribbon, spotlight the cause on social media, support organizations serving children and families affected by cancer, and participate in Childhood Cancer service projects and events.
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On September 25, District 21-S Lions will conduct a major Vision Screening at the Mexican Consulate in Douglas for approximately 200–250 Mexican nationals. We will provide screenings, distribute available eyeglasses, and have an optometrist available for more serious cases. Volunteers are welcome!
Looking Ahead to October
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On October 3–4, the First and Second Vice District Governors from Districts 21-N and 21-S will travel to Boise, Idaho, for leadership training with Multiple District 39 and more than 20 other First and Second Vice District Governors.
I challenge every District 21-S club to participate. Hold a vision screening, collect eyeglasses, promote eye health, partner with another organization, or develop your own vision service project. And please remember to report your service in the Lions Portal.
Moving Forward Together
I look forward to visiting our clubs and asking one important question: “What can the District do to help your club?”
November 6th and 7th is the Mid-Year Leadership Conference! Come to learn where there will be good effective training. More information will be forth coming in the Canyon State Lions and Arizona Lions Forum.
We will continue working on membership growth, retention, leadership development, new clubs, and strengthening our relationship with Lions in Mexico.
We are also looking forward to January, when Lions will gather in Fort Thomas, Arizona, the birthplace of Lions Clubs International founder Melvin Jones to Re-dedicate Ourselves to Lionism. District 21-S has a special connection to the history of Lionism, and we should be proud to share that heritage.
September is filled with opportunities to learn, lead and serve. Attend your Zone training, participate in a service project, invite someone to become a Lion, Go Gold for Childhood Cancer Awareness, and help us make District 21-S stronger. Remember our theme:
Serve Our Communities • Grow Our Membership • Develop Our Leaders • Strengthen Our Culture
In Lionism,
Edmund Lopez
District Governor, 21-S
2026–2027
928-651-6346
lopezedmund2020@gmail.com
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Register for Upcoming Events Now!
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As Promised here it is a 6 part series on YouTube Live every Monday starting on October 5, on all of the issues that were identified as reasons why Lions voluntarily leave us.
No Registration just direct to YouTube where you can watch Live or On Demand. Hope to see you there!
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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 Forum
MD-21 Lions were there to Represent!
Memphis Tennessee
September 3-5
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Several Lions of Arizona are attending the 50th Anniversary of the USA/Canada Forum. This event is a phenomenal opportunity to meet LCI Leadership and network with fabulous Lions! The training is always incredible! Watch for more pictures being shared and make your plans to attend next year’s event!
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Enjoy photos, under Highlights of Key Events in this Issue
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CLUBS make plans now to participate in a Service Event in remembrance of attack that took place on September 11, 2001. Details are noted below and we need volunteers for both shifts! Let’s mark this 25th Anniversary with Lions visibility and participation in Community Service!
We NEED 1st Shift Volunteers to join PIP Joe Preston!
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MD-21 Mid-Year Leadership Conference
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MD21 Mid-Year Leadership Conference 2026
Two Days of Lions Leadership, Learning & Celebration!
Arizona Lions, save the dates—November 6 & 7, 2026! Join us at the DoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix–Mesa for an exciting MD21 Mid-Year Conference featuring leadership and learning opportunities, Guiding Lions Training, an insightful seminar with special VIP guest ID Daniel Marney Elkins, club recognition, fellowship and networking, and much more.
CC Keith Alexander, host District 21S DG Ed Lopez, the Council of Governors, and Council Officers are working hard to add the finishing touches and fine-tune the logistics to make the conference exciting, rewarding, and affordable for our Arizona Lions members.
Registration information and complete program details will be sent to all clubs and made available to members shortly.
Save the date and be part of two memorable days of Lions leadership, learning, fellowship, and celebration!
Farhana Shifa
Past District Governor, MD 21
Email: DG21NorthFarhana@gmail.com
Phone: 619.549.0005
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Mid Year Leadership Conference Schedule
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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: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lion-s-pride-podcast–6907441
To be featured or share your club’s story, contact: lionspridepodcastaz@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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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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Newly Chartered AZ HCASED Lions Club Fundraiser
Welcome the new Club with your attendance & support
September 12 6 PM – 9 PM
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Raising Our Roots – WVEV Lions
September 12
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Phoenix Asian American Lions, Leos & Cubs
September 13th 11:00 AM
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AZ Lions Supporting Childhood Cancer Awareness 5K Run/Walk
September 19
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Camp Tatiyee Guest Speaker, Larry Savage
ALL TUCSON CLUBS INVITED
September 23 6 PM
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Vision Screening at Mexican Consulate
September 25
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West Valley Empowered Voices
Lions Global Business Connection
September 26
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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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Florence Lions HOG Raffle
Order Your Tickets NOW!
Winners Announced on New Years Day
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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 Lioness Fall Craft & Vendor Boutique
October 2 & 3
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Camelback Mountain Lions STRIKE FOR SIGHT
October 10th
CLUBS – HELP WITH SPONSORSHIPS!
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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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Mistletoe Madness Craft & Vendor Boutique
December 4 & 5
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24th Annual Camelback Mountain Lions BABY PHOTO CONTEST
Submit NOW – Judging December 8th
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Camelback Mountain Lions TREE PLANTING
April 23, 2027
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Phoenix One World Global Artist Lions Club led by Lion Cha has started the very first RISE–Leo Club meeting of the year at University High School!
RISE: Reach • Inspire • Serve • Empower
Proud to be part of the Leo Club family, growing young leaders through service, leadership, and fun. This is just the beginning!
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Phoenix Rainbow Lions Leo’s 1st Meeting
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First Meeting of the Leos Lions Club. 18 yrs old and below. To empower their leadership potentials and volunteerism through community service. Phoenix Rainbow Lions will be here for you.
Congratulations to the officers- President Trisha, VP President Matthew, Secretary Eva, Treasurer Mackenzie, Membership Chair Dean and Service Chair Clark.
Let me know if anyone you know is interested with community service. There’s quite a few need in some of the future events in the valley. Service community hours will be provided. Also with partnership with Children’s Cancer Network
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PRLC LEO’s packing bags to be given to kids with cancer at Phx Children’s Hospital, in this Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month!
Click the link to watch their Facebook reel!
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DSDx5AzJD/
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NO Endorsement Election at the Mid-Year.
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Dear Arizona Lions and Leos,
LCIF Trustee/PID Marie Cunning has decided to listen to wise counsel from IP Mark Lyon and PIP Frank Moore. They told her that as soon as she received her local endorsements that she would have to resign from the LCIF Board of Trustees, and that her resigning from LCIF would not reflect well on LCIF and would not be good for her political career. They suggested that she finish her LCIF term which expires in about 22 months. They still think she has a bright future and encouraged her to come back after her LCIF term expired.
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PID Marie is withdrawing her candidacy immediately, but will readdress it after her LCIF obligation. There will not be any elections at the upcoming Mid-Year Conference.
PID Marie apologizes for the extra workload this situation has caused and thanks all of you for your friendship and support.
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The good news is that PID Marie loves LCIF and looks forward to serving it to the best of her ability.
Together in Service,
Joe Preston, PIP
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Dolly Parton – Melvin Jones Lions Fellow
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Dolly Parton
Jan 19th, 1946 – Aug 25, 2026
One of the most beloved singers in country music and a successful screen actress but additionally, she was an incredible philanthropist.
She was an honorary member of the Sevier County Lions Club in Tennessee and a Melvin Jones Fellow. She truly had the heart of a Lion. Rest in Peace, Dolly.
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LCIF warns of Scams – There Could Be More
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During recent months, there have been an increasing number of phone, text, social media and email scams. Be aware of scams that fraudulently use the Lions Clubs International or Lions Clubs International Foundation name or logo. The goal of these types of scams is to trick people into revealing personal and financial information about themselves, which can then be used to commit identity theft. The correct LCIF page can be identified by the blue verified checkmark by our name.
THIS is quite helpful but also remember, scams abound! I doubt any of us have a Nigerian Prince in our family but those types of attempts can be easy to identify. Lions have big hearts and wish to help; however, be very cautious of Go Fund Me or Fundraisers not tied to bona fide charities. Unfortunately, the world appears to be filled with individuals who will use and abuse your trust – so be careful. Do your research and donate through respected sites.
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Why Update Policies & Procedures
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Time and technology does not stand still, nor should we! Policies & Procedures are to ensure effective operations and hand-offs for future leaders but they should never be viewed as engraved in stone. They should grow and adjust to ensure our organization continues to efficiently mature. It helps to avoid:
“We’ve Always Done it This Way”
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The Lions Portal is a key tool for ALL Lions to use. Here are the steps to ensure you are appropriately registered for access! It is the key area to access for your personal Lions information, your Club, District & MD but even more important your ability to access training online.
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Arizona Lions Come Together Ensuring a Final Wish
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Lion Bethany Knouse, of the South Tucson Lions Club, shared that Michelle passed away on August 30th, quietly in the Philippines with family with her. She thanked all those who helped make her journey happen through their thoughts and prayers.
We are Lions and it is clear, we add to thoughts & prayers with ACTION. As Paul Harvey would say – and now for the rest of the story
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Lion Bethany Knouse was Michelle’s cancer nurse. There are limitations within the healthcare system and at times, family are unwilling or unable to help. Lion Bethany looked beyond her job and focused completely on a patient in need. A need that went beyond what ANY system could provide. Lions Clubs within 21S were assisting but more was needed to answer this woman final wish.
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Her wish? To be able to return to the Philippines to cross over surrounded by family.
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Lion Mary Whelan, also from South Tucson Lions, reached out to her contacts in 21-N and action was overwhelming! From money raised, to obtaining Michelle a wheelchair, Lions came together for this unique service opportunity. But the support did not end there!
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Two Lions personally flew with Michelle to ensure her safe travels to the Philippines, ensure she was reunited with her family members.
We normally think of Service to the community but action for a single person can be life changing! Arizona Lions embraced: Where There Is A Need, There Is A Lion! Thank you to all you donated their time, money and support!
WE SERVE!
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Michelle reunited with her family in the Philippines.
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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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GET – Global Extension Team
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From your District 21-N Global Extension Team comprised of Lion Mele Taione, IPDG MJ Barjose, Lion Michelle Dalton and PDG Maribel Concordia Dillard
District 21N Global Extension Report
Expanding Our Lions Family
• Building New Clubs
• Creating New Opportunities to Serve
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As 21-N GET Chair, I am excited to report that our Global Extension efforts continue to move forward with three clubs currently in development:
1. Highland Prep West Leo Campus Club
We are actively working on establishing a Leo Campus Club at Highland Prep West, providing students with opportunities to:
* Serve Globally — Support important community and humanitarian causes.
* Lead Locally — Volunteer and participate in community service projects.
* Grow Professionally — Develop leadership, teamwork, and service skills.
* Earn Scholarships — Build a record of community service and leadership experience.
2. Peoria Polynesian Specialty Lions Club
A specialty Lions Club is in development in Peoria, bringing together individuals who share an interest in Polynesian culture, community, fellowship, and service.
3. Scottsdale Golden Girls Lions Club
We are also developing a Scottsdale Golden Girls Lions Club within a luxury adult living community, creating an opportunity for residents to continue making a difference through service, fellowship, and leadership.
Our goal is simple: Expand Lions by meeting people where they are, building clubs around shared interests and communities, and creating new opportunities to SERVE.
“Every new club is a new opportunity to serve, lead, and change lives.”
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21-South’s GET New Club
Arizona HACSED Lions Club
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Great News for Arizona Lions!
A newly chartered Lions club officially joined our Arizona Lions family on August 21, 2026! The Arizona HACSED Lions Club was formed through the Lions International Join Together Program in partnership with HACSED – Haitian American Center for Social Economic Development–Arizona, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving and strengthening the community.
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Congratulations to Charter President Rachelle Lamy Limite and her team for stepping forward to continue and expand their community service as Lions. Kudos to PDG Farhana Shifa for initiating this effort, with special recognition to CC Keith Alexander and District 21S DG Ed Lopez for their support and assistance in successfully launching this new club.
We also proudly recognize the sponsoring club, Mesa Thunderbird Lions Club, and co-sponsor Arizona Eastern University Lions Club, along with Guiding Lions PDG Farhana Shifa and Region Chair Judu Ahlberg, for their commitment to helping our newest Lions club grow and succeed.
On September 12, 2026, the Arizona HACSED Lions Club will celebrate the beginning of this exciting new journey in conjunction with HACSED’s Scholarship Fundraising Dinner. All Arizona Lions are warmly invited to attend! Your presence and encouragement will create enthusiasm for our newest Lions and make the beginning of their journey even more meaningful.
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LCIF Supports Humanitarian Needs – Nepal
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Hundreds have lost their lives and thousands remain missing after catastrophic flash floods and a suspected glacier collapse devastated communities along the Nepal-China border. A $2M Major Catastrophe Grant has been awarded to empower local Lions to deliver immediate relief and support long-term recovery efforts.
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Lions and LCIF stand ready to help communities facing disasters like this.
When disaster strikes, help cannot wait. Help begins with you. Your support helps make humanitarian response possible when people need it most.
Donate to our Disaster Relief Fund: https://bit.ly/4xuuqOC
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Click the picture below for the LCIF YouTube Video of Flood Response
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LCIF Grant allows rapid response of Lions to provide immediate support
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GLT – Global Leadership Team
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Zone Chair Training Complete
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Zone Chair Training took place in August. Below ZCs Nikki & Peri explaining the fine points of SWOT/SMART Goals, while ZC Jerry Hursh sharing Club Rebuilding during ZC Training.
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Mid Year Conference & Leadership Forum
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Below is the current Mid-Year Conference & Leadership Forum timing and Training Schedule. Review and make plans for which courses you will wish to attend!
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GMT – Global Membership Team
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Member Retention – Step 1 Orientation
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RETENTION STEP #1 — ORIENTATION
Want Your Lions to continue being Lions? Make sure they see the value being a Lion brings and how it enriches their lives.
Orientation isn’t just for new members—it’s for every Lion. A good orientation explains what the club does, how it operates, and how we all fit in.
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Just as important, it sends a message about our club culture: every voice is welcome, every Lion has something to contribute, and Lions should be a fun place where friends come together to serve their communities. Even veteran Lions benefit from a refresher. Programs change, opportunities grow, and all of us occasionally need to reconnect with why we became Lions and the Joy of Volunteering Together.
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And see me at MD-21 Mid-Year Conference to receive your own Retention cards for quick ideas to improve your club culture and retain your Lions. Hopefully I can get on the training agenda.
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Clubs Prepare for Global Weeks of Service
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September is Suicide Prevention Month
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Leader Dogs Visit Marana Host Lions
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Becky and Debra from the Tucson Uptown Lions joined the Marana Host Lions to share information about the incredible work of Leader Dogs for the Blind.
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This amazing service provides life-changing support and independence to individuals who are blind or visually impaired—and at no cost to the recipient!
It was a wonderful and truly eye-opening presentation. We are grateful to Becky and Debra for taking the time to share this important information with us!
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New Lions, Sponsors & Club Report
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Reporting as of September 1, 2026
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New Members for 21-N & 21-S = 44
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Our Pride is Growing
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Club Charter Celebrations
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50th Anniversary USA/Canada Forum
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Lions from around the USA and Canada came together for incredible workshops, motivational discussions and fabulous networking with Leaders. Memphis Tennessee serves as the host city for the 50th Anniversary of the Forum!
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21-N FVDG Jim Myers and his lovely bride Debbie enjoyed taking in the sights of Memphis! The City of Memphis lit up the Mississippi bridge in red white and blue honoring the 2000 Lions attending the 50th year of the USA Canada forum.
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Kicking off the 2026 Forum Strides Walk supporting Diabetes Awareness!
The Strides walk at the 2026 USA/Canada Forum donated over $11000 to Mid-South Lions Sight and Hearing to be used for Diabetic Retinopathy patients. Treasurer Toni Poe and CEO Brad Baker accepted the check. Toni wanted to share with Mid-South Lions her presentation
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Below Left: PID Marie Cunning honored
Right: New Club Growth Award for PDG MJ Barjose. FVDG Jim Myers accepted the Award on her behalf
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PDG MJ’s request for a living kidney donor was shared with the entire Forum. We pray that a donor can be located.
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September Letter from the Director
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Dear Camp Tatiyee Supporters, Families, and Community,
As I reflect on another summer at Camp Tatiyee, I keep thinking about all the little moments that made it special. A camper trying something new. A group of friends laughing together after dinner. A counselor finding just the right way to help someone feel comfortable joining in. A family knowing their child had a place where they could be fully included, fully supported, and fully themselves. Those moments are what stay with us.
Camp is fun, of course. It should be. But underneath all of that fun is something much bigger. Camp gives people the chance to build confidence, form real friendships, discover new strengths, and experience a community that meets them exactly where they are.
That spirit comes through beautifully in Buba’s story this month. His week at camp is full of basketball, competition, humor, and friendship, but it also shows what can happen when someone is surrounded by people who understand them and give them room to shine.
You’ll also get a glimpse at the creativity and energy behind our recreation programs, and we’ll recognize SRP for the generous partnership that continues to help make camp completely free for families.
Even though our campers have headed home for the year, our work is already turning toward next summer. Every gift, partnership, and encouraging word from this community helps us prepare to welcome another group of campers to the mountain in 2027.
Thank you for believing in this place and, most importantly, for believing in our campers. We are so grateful to have you as part of the Camp Tatiyee family.
Yours in camping,
Pamela Swanson
Executive Director (Adult in Charge)
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Inviting ALL CLUBS in Tucson for Camp Guest Speaker
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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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Memorial Shirt Fundraiser
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Celebration of Lionism MJM Program Book Advertising
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Dearest Lions Leaders,
I would like to ask for your support and ask for help in asking your clubs to place an ad for the January 9, 2027 Rededication to Lionism, to honor the legacy of our Founder, the museum and grounds at his birthplace, Fort Thomas is in need of work. Your support whether by volunteering your time, monetary or other resources would greatly be appreciated.
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Instead of having just a piece of folded paper for the program, I would like to have a souvenir program for this celebration. Please help me, raise awareness and support for the MJLIMF.
Yours in Service
PDG Mari President, PDGA & Vice President, MJLIMF
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Memorial Work Weekend to Protect Our Founder’s Birthplace & Legacy
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The Work Weekend at the Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial revealed the upkeep needed! This costs money! Please watch the video below so you can see just some of need! Plan to join us in the future for additional work weekends and/or support us through our Fundraisers!
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Melvin Jones Memorial Work Weekend. Important to protect our founder’s legacy.
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Some of our wonderful Lions who spent the weekend landscaping, cleaning and reoganizing the Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial grounds!
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Visitors to the Melvin Jones Lions International Memorial will now be able to view multimedia presentations. The 65″ TV, donated by the Buckeye Lions Club, is large enough to be viewed anywhere in the memorial. The TV was installed Friday by (l to r) PDG Richard Hopkins of Buckeye Lions, DG Marsine Perry 21N, and Bruce Bushey from Sun City Host Lions Club.
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Save the Date! Celebration of Lionism, January 9th, 2027!
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New ALERT Location Ideas Needed
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ALERT in Tucson is in need of a new place to operate from, since SAAVI officially moved to a new building with no room for the program. Current lease is expensive, even with the appreciated financial support of LFA. ANY LOCATION IDEAS would be GREATLY Appreciated!
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Support 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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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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