PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE David Lambertson
Hello fellow Lions!
As my wife and I prepare to leave our home and to travel to Russia, we increasingly think about our freedoms here and what can happen when a few motivated people take action. Our country truly is the greatest the world has seen, and due in no small part to those who served and continue to serve in our military. In addition to that, however, every American who works and strives to accomplish something can and does make a difference.
I believe that we are all created equal, but that some do more than others with the opportunities afforded them by living and working here. Some people decide that it is their job to take on the tough stuff. I have never personally met a more motivated, willing group of people than you, the Fort Collins Lions. Without recompense, we tackle the difficult jobs that all of our committees are focused upon. We volunteer every week so that others can be served. It is inspiring to be a part of our mission.
In addition to our regular business, (which is extensive!) we also rise to meet the challenges of the day. I recall Lion Tonya needing rides, and getting them. We helped victims of the fire with more than $23,000 and tireless effort from Lion Ron Lockner and others. We overcame the challenge of having our main source of funding dramatically change with the bingo hall in Fort Collins shutting down. We very recently lost our meeting location for lunch, and as I write this, there are not one, but several solutions in the works, and we have not missed a beat, not missed a meeting. I appreciate especially Lion Tobey Yadon’s tireless efforts in that direction. There are other examples too numerous to mention.
My point to all of this is that when we put our minds to something, big challenges become manageable, and then small, and then a memory. We overcome. First we decide to do it. Then we do it. Then we look back on it and say, “It looked like a big deal, and it was, but we did it!”
We have another crisis right now. Membership. I have spoken before about it, and will again. It is our responsibility to Fort Collins of 20 years from now. We need to invite people to lunch. We have already taken steps to make it no longer a burden financially. We have changed our language in the meetings to make it comfortable for the guests to come and not feel pressured. We remind every week, so that no Lion will forget to invite. I even got in a little trouble by suggesting that our speakers and programs intentionally appeal to our guests more than our membership. Speaking of the programs, I am encouraging some more timely and perhaps controversial programs as well, that our guests would want to see! Why? So that it will be easier for all of us to invite people and to get a “YES” response from the people we invite!
As I write this, I know that some will invite and some will not. What I fail to understand is the why of it. Please invite someone to share Lions with you, and let them decide for themselves if they like it or not. It is a special gift. Don’t be selfish. When we give this gift we get more of it, with more members. If you know someone and for whatever reason you don’t want to invite them please let me know their name and contact information, and I’ll invite them in a most cordial way. My phone number is 970-691-1984.
You make me proud to be a Lion. Let’s work to make a few more people proud to be new Lions as well.
Your President, David Lambertson
KidSight
If you are not part of the KidSight but would consider joining it, please contact Carole Kitchell. Also, take the time to look at the projectsmilefc.org to learn about our collaboration with the North Fort Collins Business Association. Click on the photo on the left side of the screen that has the “KidSight” logo prominently displayed.
A check for $2500 was presented to John Newman of the Health District for Northern Larimer County, for their Prescription Assistance Program. These funds are used to assist those in need with diabetic medications and supplies. Presenting the check are Lion Mary Lou Blevins of the Diabetes Committee and Club President David Lambertson.
The High Park Wildfire
On Monday, June 11, in a phone conversation with District Governor Mike Reager regarding the seriousness of the High Park Fire, we decided that he would contact LCIF and request an emergency grant that would be used to help those who were victims of the fire. Tuesday, June 12, we were notified that District 6NE had been granted $10,000 by LCIF. That same day I requested a grant from the Colorado Lions Foundation and was given $5,000 to use for fire relief.
Later that week our Foundation committed up to $5,000 for the relief efforts. To date we have received more than $22,000 in grants and gifts from the Lions of our district and state.
Our efforts to reach the fire victims has resulted in a partnership with the Red Cross. Red Cross councilors identify those in need and we, the Lions of District 6NE provide help. We have provided funds for food, clothing, medicine, and gas. Recently, we purchase several thousand dollars in grocery items that we are giving those who have been evacuated to restock their food shelves. Most of the evacuees were away and their homes without power for fourteen or more days. Everyone lost all food that required refrigeration.
Everyone involved in the relief effort of the High Park Fire has put in long and exhausting hours. However, when you see the grateful expressions on the faces of those we help, it’s worth the effort.
As Chairperson of this effort I want to recognize PDG Barb Feit who is our treasurer and PDG David Mendenhall who is my Co-chairperson.
From the fire victims comes a special thanks to the Lions of District 6NE for your generosity and loving care.
PCC Ron Lockner
Lions show up in the most unusual places.
Do you know where this is??