We always say April Showers bring May Flowers but what does it mean when we have temperatures in the twenties and thirties in the middle of April? What I hope it doesn't mean is we forget why we lions are here to serve our communities—so keep working on improving our communities and our world.

As Sandy and I have traveled throughout the District this year we were pleased to see all the Lions are doing in the area of service. I know our clubs are involved in their communities, but I would just like to compliment some Clubs on their involvement in the Literacy Project of President Madden. So with apologies to those Clubs not mention herein—Princeville, Al-Wood, Orion, and Toulon on working with their schools doing the Dictionary Project. If you are not familiar with this project, contact PDG Tom Martin for information you need. Also Lion Tom worked with the Foundation and did a pilot project to bring the hearing unit to Princeville to do hearing tests on the faculty, staff, and students at Princeville Junior and Senior High Schools. Obviously, with leaders like Lion Tom, we continue to lead Multiple District (MD) 1 forward. Additionally, I would like to commend all of the clubs that offer scholarships and recognition to outstanding students for academic and athletic accomplishments. As Lions one way to promote ourselves is to be involved with local schools, thus allowing the community see us in action and will help attract younger people to see why our motto is “We Serve,” and hopefully, as they mature, they, too, will join us in our work. 

The end of my year of governor is approaching faster than I can believe, and Sandy and I have enjoyed meeting so many fine Lions from not only 1H but Lions from around Illinois and other states, as well as from other countries. Lions Tawny, Buzz, and Steve are already hard at work preparing for the next three years, and I know they will continue leading our District forward and continue to help lead MD 1 in positive ways.

Until next time, DG Rich