From the Lion’s Den

Vol. 6, January, 2009

Lion Terry Bliss, editor

THE PRESIDENT’S CORNER

Happy New Year Fellow Lions:

My New Year’s resolution is to continue to work hard in leading the Kendall Lions and to attend and support all our projects. I hope along the way there are more new projects, to commit our club too. Hopefully through the Winter months, we can all commit to perfect attendance.

Thank you’s go out to Lions Ray Ernenwein and Bill Ingham and their committee members for the Community Christmas Tree and carol singing in early December. The Town of Kendall served a hot beverage and some sweets after the singing. This was truly a community event, part of which was done years ago, and now resurrected. Hoping, that it will continue next year and beyond.

Thank you Lion Dave Strasenburgh and all your bell ringers at the Sav-A-Lot in Albion. There were many donations to the Salvation Army Christmas Fund and lots of Lion manpower.

The Lions Christmas Party was a huge success and thanks to auctioneer Bob Ryan and many eager bidders we raised over $125, which will be donated to the Kendall Food Shelf. Lions

John Becker and Gary Kludt and their committee again did an outstanding job in planning and asking for donations of items for decorations, and later as items to bid on. The hors d’oeuvres and open bar added to the evening. Everyone had a great time socializing and relaxing before the arrival of Santa.

Thank you to Lion Ray and your committee for the Spirit of Christmas Decoration Recognition. Eleven families and their homes were recognized. Each received a framed certificate on Christmas Eve, and were very excited. This should give our club added recognition for the future. A listing is included in this newsletter and should be published in the local papers in the weeks to come.

And from last month—an extra reminder: New Year’s Day falls on our regular meeting night, so our first meeting in January will be a club visitation to the Hamlin Lions. This will be on Tuesday, January 6, at the Hamlin VFW. We need a great turn out of Kendall Lions. Calls will have to be made by Friday, January 2, or earlier, so I can make the reservations. If you cannot attend after making a reservation, let me know by noon on Monday (Jan. 5) or you will need to pay for your meal. The meal costs $14 and the bar will be open. Let’s see what our neighbors to the east are doing. This might be a great time to sell barbeque and lottery tickets. Arrive by 6:30, for dinner at 7 P.M. Meal: chicken parmesan and spaghetti. Visitations of clubs are being encouraged by the International President, so let’s do our part. Clarendon will be visiting us at our second meeting in February. We will be having PDG Marvin Hankinson of the Hamlin Lions speak on Camp Badger and how we can help.

And we’re off for the second half of the Lion Year-------What a busy first half……..WOW………

President Dan

Dates to remember:

January 6 – Club visitation to Hamlin Lions

9 – Community Christmas Concert ( postponed from December, due to weather)

15 – Kendall Lions Meeting (IPDG Terry Bliss – program)

31 – Lions Chicken Bar-B-Que (benefit Walter Rutland Family)

February 1 – Super Bowl Sunday

1-28 – Kendall Lottery (benefit the Emergency Fund: all tickets need to be sold)

Did you know ?

January 4, 2009, marks the bicentennial of the birth of Louis Braille, who invented the series of raised

dots that can be read with the fingers by people who are blind or whose eyesight is not sufficient for

reading printed material. The Kendall Lions typically donate nearly 200 dollars per year to the Braille

Books organization .

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month
Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the eye's optic nerve and result in vision loss and

blindness. It can steal sight without warning or symptoms and is a leading cause of blindness throughout

the world. Join with other Lions during the month of January to spread the word about the importance of a

comprehensive eye exam for early detection and treatment of glaucoma. Clubs or districts are encouraged

to collaborate with local healthcare organizations or agencies to organize Glaucoma screenings.

We know him as the Founder of Lions Clubs International, but who WAS Melvin Jones ?

Melvin Jones was born on January 13, 1879 in Fort Thomas, Arizona, the son of a United States Army

captain who commanded a troop of scouts. Later, his father was transferred and the family moved East.

As a young man, Melvin Jones made his home in Chicago, Illinois, became associated with an insurance

firm and in 1913 formed his own agency. He soon joined the Business Circle, a businessmen's luncheon

group, and was shortly elected secretary. This group was one of many at that time devoted solely to

promoting the financial interests of their membership. Because of their limited appeal, they were destined

to disappear. Melvin Jones, however, had other plans. "What if these men," he asked, "who are successful

because of their drive, intelligence and ambition, were to put their talents to work improving their

communities?" Thus, at his invitation, delegates from men's clubs met in Chicago to lay the groundwork

for such an organization and on June 7, 1917, Lions Clubs International was born.

Melvin Jones eventually abandoned his insurance agency to devote himself full time to Lions at International Headquarters in Chicago. It was under his dynamic leadership that Lions Clubs earned the prestige necessary to attract civic-minded members.

The association's founder was also recognized as a leader outside the association. One of his greatest honors was in 1945 when he represented Lions Clubs International as a consultant in San Francisco, California, at the organization of the United Nations.

Melvin Jones, the man whose personal code "You can't get very far until you start doing something for somebody else" became a guiding principle for public-spirited people the world over, died June 1, 1961 at 82 years of age.

Lions Vision Statement
To be the global leader in community and humanitarian service.

Lions Mission Statement
To empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding through Lions clubs.

KENDALL LIONS CLUB

FIRST ANNUAL “SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS” RECOGNITION

THE FOLLOWING FAMILIES RECEIVED A FRAMED CERTIFICATE AS THEIR RECOGNITION:

• 2368 KENDALL RD. – BILL HANCE FAMILY

• 1357 KENDALL RD. – ROGER HERMAN FAMILY

• 16776 ROOSEVELT HWY. – MAX JONES FAMILY

• 16761 KENMOR RD. – DAVID SCHUTH FAMILY

• 1188 COUNTYLINE RD. – JOHN CURTIS JR. FAMILY

• 16745 SMITH DR. – DONALD TOBIN FAMILY

• 2170 PETER SMITH RD. – BUTCH CHRIST FAMILY

• 2050 CENTER.RD. – EARL BILLINGS FAMILY

• 2097 KENDALL RD. – STEPHEN FOUTS FAMILY

• 16568 WOODCHUCK ALLEY – CRAIG FAULKS FAMILY

• 1408 Kendall Road – Ed Barrett’s family

‘Tis the Season to Sell, Sell, Sell !

February Lottery Tickets

Lion Dave Schuth reported the February Lottery ticket saleswere down slightly last year,

so let’s make it up this year. I’m sure we’re up to the challenge.

Annual Chicken BBQ – Benefits Walter Rutland Family

Our annual Chicken BBQ will be held on Sat., Jan. 31, 2009 at the Methodist Church.

Lion Phil disbursed the tickets and reported he needs many helpers to make this another

successful event . The Kendall Leos will also be assisting us, so we want a good turnout of

Lions to show them how much fun an activity of this size can be.

Speaking of the Kendall Leos, did you see the article in the school newsletter about them ?

They had a very successful food drive last month and donated what they collected to the Kendall

Food Cupboard. It’s great to see the organization we sponsored being a leader in community service.

Strange , but True . . .

Two California Highway Patrol Officers were conducting speeding enforcement on I-15, just north of

the Marine Corps Air Station at Miramar. One of the officers was using a hand held radar device to

check speeding vehicles approaching the crest of a hill. The officers were suddenly surprised when

the radar gun began reading 300 miles per hour. The officer attempted to reset the radar gun, but it

would not reset and then turned off.

Just then a deafening roar over the treetops revealed that the radar had in fact locked on to a USMC

F/A-18 Hornet which was engaged in a low flying exercise near the location.

Back at the CHP Headquarters the Patrol Captain fired off a complaint to the USMC Base Commander. The reply came back in true USMC style:

Thank you for your letter. We can now complete the file on this incident.

You may be interested to know that the tactical computer in the Hornet had detected the presence of,

and subsequently locked on to your hostile radar equipment and automatically sent a jamming signal

back to it, which is why it shut down.

Furthermore, an Air-to-Ground missile aboard the fully armed aircraft had also automatically locked

on to your equipment location.

Fortunately, the Marine Pilot flying the Hornet recognized the situation for what it was, quickly

responded to the missile system alert status and was able to override the automated defense system

before the missile was launched to destroy the hostile radar position.

The pilot also suggests you cover your mouths when cussing at them, since the video systems on

these jets are very high tech.

Sergeant Johnson, the officer holding the radar gun, should get his dentist to check his left rear

molar. It appears the filling is loose Also, the snap is broken on his holster. - Semper Fi

- A farmer was milking his cow. He was just starting to get a good rhythm going when a bug flew

into the barn and started circling his head. Suddenly, the bug flew into the cow's ear.

The farmer didn't think much about it, until the bug squirted out into his bucket.

It went in one ear and out the udder.

- A doctor made it his regular habit to stop off at a bar for a hazelnut daiquiri on his way home.

The bartender knew of his habit, and would always have the drink waiting at precisely 5:03 p.m.

One afternoon, as the end of the work day approached, the bartender was dismayed to find that he

was out of hazelnut extract. Thinking quickly, he threw together a daiquiri made with hickory nuts

and set it on the bar. The doctor came in at his regular time, took one sip of the drink and exclaimed,

"This isn't a hazelnut daiquiri!"

"No, I'm sorry", replied the bartender, "it's a hickory daiquiri, doc."

From the Lion’s Den

Vol. 7, February, 2009

Lion Terry Bliss, editor

THE PRESIDENT’S CORNER

Greetings Fellow Lions:

As I write this for the newsletter I am so amazed at what our Lions Club accomplished today. Today was the fourth annual Winter chicken bar-be-que sponsored by our club. After paying for expenses, all the proceeds will be given to the Walt Rutland Family to help, as needed, as they continue to rehabilitate Walt after his tragic accident and his long road to recovery. I witnessed today the strength of this club as many Lions, family, Leos, and community members came together for a cause; over 940 dinners were packed today, within about 2½ hours, with only a couple of times where we ran out of chicken for 10 -15 minutes. Everything went very smoothly as I could see. Congratulations and huge “THANK YOU” go out to everyone that gave of their time today, and / or purchased bar-be-que tickets. Thank you to Chairman Phil D’Agostino and his committee for this very successful club fund raiser – a lot of work, but fun also for everyone. Again I have to say, “I am proud to be a Kendall Lion”. The strength of many people coming together for the good a family within the community was very evident today.

We should feel very PROUD.

I must also send Lion Gerry Ellis a belated “THANK YOU” for packing several baskets at Christmas and delivering them to needy community members. Lion Gerry has committed to this project for well over 20 years. I apologize for not putting this in the last newsletter. My age is starting to show.

Twenty – two Kendall Lions visited Hamlin on January 6, for a visitation. A delicious chicken parmesan and spaghetti dinner was served. Everyone attending had an enjoyable time and we heard of many of Hamlin’s projects and we were encouraged to give them support.

Just say “Yes, I will.” Three past president’s and our next President have been given the task of submitting to me a slate of officers for next year, no later than the second meeting of February. This needs to be read to the membership at 3 different meetings, then voted on, and submitted to the International by the end of April. If you have not held an office, please give serious thought to taking on a position, if not next year, within a couple of years. This club has many outstanding past presidents, who were great leaders, and this duty needs to continue. Go through the line of offices, from director, and through the 3 vice-president positions to the Presidency. Yes, it can be a lot of work, but very satisfying as you go through the year. You will be given as much help for success as needed by our great membership. We also need an assistant for Secretary Debbie, as she is overwhelmed at times. Treasurer Paul would like to step down, but will gladly assist a new treasurer. – Lion Pres. Dan

Dates to remember:

February 1-28 – Kendall Lottery (benefit the Emergency Fund: all tickets need to be sold)

5 – Lions meeting; program by Paul Dittman on the new website; BOD meeting

14 – Valentine’s Day – take your spouse out to dinner and a movie (just a very good suggestion)

19 – Lions meeting: program by PDG Marv Hankenson (or Jim Schieble?) on Lions Camp

Badger. Clarendon Lions will also be visiting. We need our best attendance of the year.

March 5 – Lions meeting; program by Genesee / Orleans Ministry of Concern, BOD meeting.

12 – New Lions Orientation: 7 – 9 P.M., at the Kendall Elementary School, Conference Room.

This is for all Lions, especially our newest members who have not attended an orientation.

19 – Lions meeting; program on Camp Abilities

Did you know ?

1925 International Convention Cedar Point, Ohio June 30, 1925

“Dear Lions and Ladies:

I suppose you have heard the legend that represents opportunity as a capricious lady, who knocks at every door but once, and if the door isn't opened quickly, she passes on, never to return. And that is as it should be. Lovely, desirable ladies won't wait. You have to go out and grab 'em.

I am your opportunity. I am knocking at your door. I want to be adopted. The legend doesn't say what you are to do when several beautiful opportunities present themselves at the same door. I guess you have to choose the one you love best. I hope you will adopt me. I am the youngest here, and what I offer you is full of splendid opportunities for service.

The American Foundation for the Blind is only four years old. It grew out of the imperative needs of the blind, and was called into existence by the sightless themselves. It is national and international in scope and in importance. It represents the best and most enlightened thought on our subject that has been reached so far. Its object is to make the lives of the blind more worthwhile everywhere by increasing their economic value and giving them the joy of normal activity.

Try to imagine how you would feel if you were suddenly stricken blind today. Picture yourself stumbling and groping at noonday as in the night; your work, your independence, gone. In that dark world wouldn't you be glad if a friend took you by the hand and said, "Come with me and I will teach you how to do some of the things you used to do when you could see"? That is just the kind of friend the American Foundation is going to be to all the blind in this country if seeing people will give it the support it must have.

You have heard how through a little word dropped from the fingers of another, a ray of light from another soul touched the darkness of my mind and I found myself, found the world, found God. It is because my teacher learned about me and broke through the dark, silent imprisonment which held me that I am able to work for myself and for others. It is the caring we want more than money. The gift without the sympathy and interest of the giver is empty. If you care, if we can make the people of this great country care, the blind will indeed triumph over blindness.

The opportunity I bring to you, Lions, is this: To foster and sponsor the work of the American Foundation for the Blind. Will you not help me hasten the day when there shall be no preventable blindness; no little deaf, blind child untaught; no blind man or woman unaided? I appeal to you Lions, you who have your sight, your hearing, you who are strong and brave and kind. Will you not constitute yourselves Knights of the Blind in this crusade against darkness?

I thank you. “

Helen Keller

Editor’s note: The above text is the actual speech delivered by Helen Keller at the 1925 Int’l Convention.

I had the opportunity to witness an actress portray Helen Keller at the Int’l Convention in Chicago in 2007. The entire speech took a full 15 minutes (imagine a deaf person trying to carefully articulate each word). I witnessed it with over 17,000 Lions from around the world, and it was one of the of most moving, powerful events I’ve ever experienced. I also saw the unveiling of the statue referenced in the article below.

Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter Dedicates “Gift of Sight” Statue at Lions Clubs International Headquarters in Recognition of Lions’ Blindness Prevention Efforts.

The bronze statue depicts a child leading a man blinded by river blindness. For hundreds of years, a child leading a blind elder has been the fate of families stricken with river blindness, or onchocerciasis, in Africa and Latin America. A Lions club member, President Carter has long joined Lions in their fight to save and restore sight.

LCIF has a long history of partnering with The Carter Center and Merck & Co, Inc. to fight river blindness. Through these joint efforts, experts predict river blindness will be eliminated in Latin America by the year 2012.

Currently river blindness is prevalent in Latin America and Africa and is transmitted by the bite of a black fly. The disease is often blinding but can be treated through medication. Merck has donated 600 million doses of this medicine through its MECTIZAN Donation Program to LCIF and other partners, and LCIF has awarded more than $30 million to The Carter Center for river blindness and other eye disease control programs through the Lions-Carter Center SightFirst Initiative. Lions play a vital local role in the programs, helping educate people on the diseases, distributing the drug and providing for eye health training and equipment.

Pennsylvania Lions Help Girl Receive Treatment
When Hallstead/Great Bend Lions in Pennsylvania put Melissa Spencer and her visually impaired daughter, Jessica, in contact with a pediatric vision specialist, the initial prognosis wasn't good. Jessica would have to make a two-hour trip to Oswego, New York, several times a week for a vision training regimen with a price tag of $8,000 to $10,000--which the Spencer's insurance wouldn't cover.

But the Hallstead/Great Bend club wanted to do better. Past District 14-H Governor Jack McGoldrick and the district SightFirst committee contacted Dr. Amy Neal, a member of the New York Special Olympics vision program, who secured a visual therapy computer for the Spencers and arranged monthly visits with them at Neal's practice in Hawley, Pennsylvania. To finish things up, the committee took care of the $500 cost of the computer.

WELCOME ! CONGRATULATIONS ! WELCOME ! CONGRATULATIONS !

Welcome to new Lions Helen Unterborn (sponsored by Randy Unterborn) and Doug Urquhart (sponsored by Brett Ernenwein) . We are all looking forward to serving with you !

FUNNIES !

The other day Mrs. Smith was standing in front of the bedroom mirror, not happy with what she saw.

She said to her husband, “I feel horrible: I look old, fat, and ugly. I really need you to pay me a compliment.” Being the thoughtful husband, Mr. Smith replied “Well, your eyesight’s darned near perfect.”

You know what they say --- “Marriage is a relationship in which one person is always right, and the other one is a husband.”

Supposedly, these are actual advertisements that have appeared in papers and businesses.

Lost: small apricot poodle. Reward. Neutered. Like one of the family.

A superb and inexpensive restaurant. Fine food expertly served by waitresses in appetizing forms.

Dinner Special -- Turkey $5.25; Chicken or Beef $6.25; Children $3.00.

Wanted: Hair-cutter. Excellent growth potential.

Dog for sale: eats anything and is fond of children.

Four-poster bed, 101 years old. Perfect for antique lover.

Thursday night - Potluck supper. Prayer and medication to follow.

Two signs found on top of one another in a country kitchen several years ago: “Restrooms to the left”. “Please wait for the hostess to seat you”.

Official sign near door: “Door Alarmed.” Handprinted sign nearby: “Window frightened”.

In a funeral parlor: "Ask about our layaway plan."

In the vestry of a New England church: "Will the last person to leave please see that the perpetual light is extinguished."

On the grounds of a public school: "No trespassing without permission."

Sign on a front door: "Everyone on these premises is a vegetarian except the dog."

In a clothing store: "Excellent bargains for men with 16 and 17 necks."

“Man wanted to work in dynamite factory. Must be willing to travel”.

From the Lion’s Den

Vol. 8, March, 2009

Lion Terry Bliss, editor

THE PRESIDENT’S CORNER

Greetings Fellow Lions:

Looks like, we are into cold nights and daytimes of warm sunshine for the first week of March. This should get the maple sap running more and the early Spring bulbs blooming again. Our “Snow Bird members” will be returning from the South soon. Excitement is in the air anticipating trees budding and leafing out, the orchards blooming, and mud all over country roads as fields get plowed in preparation for plantings.

This also brings to mind of March: Lambs vs. Lions. As we watch the weather for which type of day it will be, we can use this as an analogy to hopefully put energy back into our club: “Are you a Lamb or a Lion?” Do you attend meetings on a regular basis, when available? Remember you agreed to this, when you were inducted into the Kendall Lions Club. Do you suggest new events for our club or work on as many projects or activities as you could? Do you volunteer when needed or do you wait for that tap on the shoulder: “Would you help us out?” As a Lion, could you get involved more? This is not to anger anyone, but sometimes we just need that little extra nudge for our club to continue to be the leader that it is, in District 20E-1. Remember:

Lamb or Lion.

Having written this, we need:

• A new golf chairman (must get started by the middle of March for the June event)
• Someone to put together the newsletter and send it out to members not having an e-mail address (about an hour per month)
• Assistants for both the secretary and treasurer as needed.
• A tent chairman (we are starting to get requests for dates). This is a six or seven thousand dollar fund raiser that helps the club support many individuals, clubs, or organizations. Can we afford not to have this available?

Please give me a call (964-3092) or e-mail (dpeckha1@rochester.rr.com) if you can help out the club.

Thank you to our nominating committee (Bob, Phil, John, and Steve) for completing a tough task for the club, and to the new slate of officers for next year for saying “Yes” – a job well done again. The new slate of officers will be read during the next 3 meetings and voted on April 2.

Happenings in February include: our annual February Lottery - Thank you Lion Dave Schuth for chairing this fund raiser to put money back into the emergency relief fund. All the tickets were sold, as the club picked up the last couple of tickets. Now - What Lions need to be fined for winning a $25 check? Lion Dave Strasenburgh needs to check out the calendar on the Kendall Lions website (www.lionskendallny.org). Twelve Clarendon Lions visited on the 19^th and enjoyed socializing and learning about what makes Kendall special. Lion Paul Dittman and PDG Marv Hankinson each gave outstanding programs this month on our Kendall website and Camp Badger respectively. Thank you gentlemen, you were informative and to the point. One more huge “Thank You”, extended to the Board of Directors, for their input and discussions, during our “short” BOD meetings. The club’s money is being spent wisely. The Kendall Community truly appreciates what is being done on their behalf.

On Thursday, March 12, new member orientation will be given at the Kendall Elementary School, Conference Room, beginning at 7 P.M. for approximately 2 hours. Membership Chairman Paul Gray, First Vice-President Steve Cliff, and PDG Terry Bliss have been planning and expect all members who have not been through an orientation to take advantage of this evening. Any member, or potential member, interested should attend to become more informed. You will walk away with a much better understanding about Lions. Please let Lions Paul, Steve, Terry, or me know if you are attending.

See you on Thursday,

“Proud to be a Kendall Lion”

President Dan

Dates to remember:

March 5 – Lions meeting; no program, BOD meeting (if needed)

12 – New Lions Orientation: 7 – 9 P.M., at the Kendall Elementary School, Conference Room. This

meeting is for any Lion, especially our newest members who have not attended an orientation, and potential new members.

19 – Lions meeting; program on Camp Abilities

April 2 – Lions meeting (Brockport Lions attending)

16 – Lions meeting

May 7 – Lions meeting

15 – Senior Class (2009) Breakfast

16 – Garage Sale and Steak Roast

21 – Lions meeting

22-24 – MD20 Lions Convention in Binghamton

We extend our condolences to the Family of Lion Bob Wilson, who passed away last month.

Bob was a great Lion and a friend to all who will be truly missed.

Get Well Soon to Lion Ray Ernenwein who is now home from the hospital. Hurry back – we miss you !

Lion Phil D’Agostino would like to thank all Kendall Lions and Leos who helped with the chicken BBQ.

It was a great success and over $5,000.00 was raised for the Rutland Family.

Lion John Wing would like to thank all the Lions who helped build the ramp at the Rutland’s home.

Lion Dave Schuth extends his thanks to the Lions who sold tickets for the February Lottery.

This money is used for our emergency relief fund. All 500 tickets were sold – great job, everyone !

We Serve

Did you know ?

LIONS Clubs International Foundation Responds to Australian Wildfires

LCIF is working with local Lions to respond to the devastating bush wildfires that spread across southern Australia. LCIF is working with Lions in Victoria, southern Australia, to assess the situation and determine a course of action as well as emergency needs. As clean up from this disaster is still ongoing, information is continuing to be sent to LCIF. Our thoughts are with Lions and those affected by this tragedy. We are saddened to learn that three Marysville Lions Club members are among the deceased and four others remain missing.

Police have so far confirmed 181 deaths as the fires ripped across the southern state of Victoria, but the final death toll is expected to be well over 200 people, as many people remain missing. A 60-mile-long fire front decimated several hillside towns northeast of Melbourne. More than 900 houses were destroyed and some 7,000 people have appealed for assistance. High winds and a decades-long drought in the area are making the fires difficult to extinguish.

LCIF has awarded a US$100,000 major catastrophe grant in addition to US$30,000 total in emergency grants to Districts 201-V3, V5 and V14. LCIF has established an "Australian Wildfire Disaster" designed fund for donors wishing to contribute directly to this disaster. The funds will be used by Lions in Australia to provide relief supplies to displaced families and assist in rebuilding efforts.

Lions throughout Australia are responding and have launched their Lions Alert program. Within the first hour of the initial fire report , Lions were being marshalled to assist the State Emergency Services and other Emergency Service organizations, and the Red Cross, in each affected Zone. Lions are receiving full cooperation from each Municipal Council and will be given a full list of all the damage in order to direct efforts as they move into the recovery phase. Lions have in place arrangements for cleaning up work, personal assistance to victims, fencing, livestock fodder, and other areas as they arise.

March is Eye Donor Awareness Month

In the US, President Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation in 1983 that designated March as National Eye Donor Awareness Month. Lions Eye Banks around the world are procuring quality eye tissue for corneal transplants, research and other medical purposes. At the conclusion of fiscal year 2007-2008, they provided nearly 30,000 corneas for sight-saving transplants and approximately 13,000 eyes for research and education.

South Carolina Lions Get Computer Savvy

What better way to reach the generation of Blogging and YouTube than by giving them newly-refurbished PC's? Salem Lions in South Carolina recently donated their 2,000th computer to James M. Brown Elementary student James Cannon as part of their Computers for Kids program. The third-grader, along with his brother, mother and guidance counselor Beth Voss, were on hand to receive the PC. Voss has worked with club president Ray Bramble and Jim Jacques to administer at the program since its inception four years ago.

In March, as part of our major branding initiative, Lions International is launching a new website that will:

• Explain who Lions are and what we do.
• Make it easier to find information.
• Tell the Lions story in pictures and words to show how we make a difference.
• Include “tips and tools” for projects.
• Provide information that Lions need to do service projects.
• Allow you to connect with other Lions on Myspace, Youtube, Facebook and Twitter.
• Enable you to share pictures and stories with Lions International.
• Checkout www.lionsclubs.org

FUNNIES !

Two college football players were taking an important final exam. If they failed, they would be on academic probation and not allowed to play in the big game the following week. The exam was fill-in-the-blank.

The last question read, "Old MacDonald had a ________."

Bubba was stumped. He had no idea what to answer. But he knew he needed to get this one right to be sure he passed. Making sure the professor wasn't watching, he tapped Tiny on the shoulder. "Pssst. Tiny. What's the answer to the last question?" Tiny laughed. He looked around to make sure the professor hadn't noticed then he turned to Bubba. "Bubba, you're so stupid. Everyone knows Old MacDonald had a FARM."

"Oh yeah," said Bubba. "I remember now." He picked up his No. 2 pencil and started to write the answer in the blank. He stopped. Tapping Tiny's shoulder again, he whispered, "Tiny, how do you spell farm?"

"You are really dumb, Bubba. That's so easy. Farm is spelled E-I-E-I-O."

Bumper Stickers

I don't suffer from insanity. I enjoy every minute of it.

Consciousness: that annoying time between naps.

Few women admit their age. Few men act theirs.

A fool and his money are a girl's best friend.

I started out with nothing & still have most of it left.

"Born Free. . . . .Taxed to Death"

Don't bother me. I'm living happily ever after.

We Serve

From the Lion’s Den

Vol. 9, April, 2009

Lion Terry Bliss, editor

THE PRESIDENT’S CORNER

At our March 19^th meeting, a generous check was given to JoAnne Rutland, Walt’s wife, and twin daughters, on his behalf, to put toward the many expenses they have incurred since his accident last July. In February, a ramp was also built for Walt, as he is anticipating returning home from the Rochester hospital soon. Thank you Lion John Wing for organizing a Lions crew to assist carpenter Lion Jeff Miller with this project. Congratulation to BBQ Chairman Phil D’Agostino, Emergency Relief Chairman John Wing, and the rest of the hard working Lions for completing these two major projects for the welfare of a local family---a job well done.

President of Camp Badger, PDG Marv Hankinson also accepted a $750 check from the Kendall Lions to be used for the dining hall project. Marv had given a program to the club on Camp Badger in February.

Our program for March 19th was on Camp Abilities, held at the College at Brockport in late June and early July. They are looking for support from all Lions Clubs in the area to make the camp even more successful. How can we help?

Our newest Lion was inducted at the March 19^th meeting. Lion Jeff Rodas was inducted by member PDG Terry Bliss as Lion Dave Schuth (sponsor) and the rest of the Lions looked on. Welcome Jeff….

The Golf Committee, with Chairmen Lion Jeff Rheinwald and Will Harris, will be meeting on April 4^th with the rest of the committee to set in motion the 2009 tournament. More details will follow. Let me know if you would like to assist with the planning of this event.

The new slate of officers will be read for the third and final time on April 2. After the reading, the slate of officers will be voted on by the general membership. We still have a Third Vice-President position that needs to be filled. Step up and let Lion Secretary Debbie or First Vice-President Steve Cliff know that you will take on the responsibility of the 3^rd Vice-President.

Please check out the calendar on the Kendall Lions website (www.lionskendallny.org) and see who has not sent their picture in to Lion Paul Dittman. A recent perspective member e-mailed to me that they will know more members the next time they visit as they looked at the members pictures. What a great way to welcome people to the club. They will feel they fit in much sooner. They also mentioned how friendly members were and that the meeting was very informative. A computer / website committee is forming – do you want to be a part of it. It should not take much time ---but what do you really want to see on the site.

Check out the Roaring 20E-1 for District news from other clubs (http://www.lions20e1.org/news). You may even read something about your club.

Thank you to the Orientation Committee (Paul Gray, Steve Cliff, Terry Bliss), and also Ray Ernenwein, John Wing, Bob and Debbie Ryan, and Randy Unterborn for promoting the Kendall Lions and information on what it is to be a Lion. An outstanding evening about Lions was shared with several others attending. We may have recruited a few more quality members for the club.

Please give me a call (964-3092) or e-mail (dpeckha1@rochester.rr.com) if you can help out the club.

See you on Thursday, April 16,

“Proud to be a Kendall Lion”

President Dan

Dates to remember:

April 2 – Lions meeting (Brockport Lions attending), program by Bill Latin of the Cobblestone Museum

16 – Lions meeting, new member Mary Campbell to be inducted, BOD meeting.

25 – Kendall Town Clean-up: details at the Thursday meetings.

May 7 – Lions meeting, program by Lion Julie Christenson on the Kendall School budget, BOD meeting.

15 – Senior Class (2009) Breakfast at the Village Inn, Lion Mike Cusimano will Guest Speak.

16 – Garage Sale and Steak Roast – Lions Debbie and Bob are looking for help in the planning.

21 – Lions meeting, Warren Kruger – Kendall Highway Department.

22 – 24 – State Lions Convention in Binghamton.

The grass is green, Spring has sprung , Kendall Lions Get Things Done !

New Member Orientation: Was held on Thursday, March 12^th, 7-9pm at the Kendall Elementary School. Lion Ray did a great job. Lion Terry handled the International portion of the program. Lion Bob Ryan and Lion John Wing handled the Kendall Club information. Lion Paul Gray did a great job putting together a packet for new members.

Kendall Town Clean-up: Saturday, April 25^th Lion Dave reported that we will meet at the Kendall Highway garage at 9am. The Boy Scouts will be helping with this clean-up and hope to get the Girl Scouts involved, also.

Rose Sale: Orders need to be into Lion Chuck by April 30^th., for pick-up at his house on May 7^th

starting at 1pm. Cost is $20.00 per dozen.

Senior Breakfast: Friday, May 15^th at the Village Inn at 8am. Sign up sheet will be passed around on May 7^th for those interested in attending (see Lion Chuck).

Garage Sale: Saturday, May 16^th at the Kendall Fireman’s Field. Lion Bob would like to try to get more of the Community involved. An idea is to have one tent that is available for organizations to give out information, possible different demonstrations, etc. We will ask the Scouts, the Kendall historian, the Fire Dept, etc., see if they might be interested in having an information booth. A lot of help will be needed for this event. See Lion Bob or Debbie if interested in helping or if you would like steak roast tickets.

June Awards and Installation Night: Thursday, June 18^th with dinner at the Kendall Fire Hall. Committees have been set up for the various awards. Give VP Steve, Lion Debbie or President Dan a name if you feel someone deserves an award and they will make sure it gets to the proper committees. Please see Debbie if you interested in helping in any way. Lion Chuck Rapp has volunteered to help with the cooking.

Red Wing Game: Monday, July 20^th. Lion Todd reported on the Kendall night Red Wing Game and would like to get as many people as possible involved. The Kendall Community Choir will be singing at this game. Tickets will be available at the 1^st meeting in April, cost is $5.50 per ticket.

Golf Committee: Lion Jeff Rheinwald and Wil Harris have agreed to assist and train the new chairperson to assure the success of the tournament. There will be a planning meeting on Saturday, April 4^th. Time and place to be determined. Lion Larry Rowles, Lion Brett, Lion Doug Urquhart and Lion Jeff Rodas have expressed interest in helping with this event.

Tent Committee: We need Tent Captains!! Lion Jerry has agreed to take the reservations and then will call a Lion to get a crew together. We need 3 Captains - they can call for a crew to set up the tents. President Dan will be asking a few of you to be a Tent Captain. The tents raise approx. $6-7000 per year.

We Serve

Did you know ?

FUNNIES !

A director is screen testing Sylvestor Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger for a new film about classic composers. Not having figured out who to give which part to, he asks Sly who he would like to be.
Stallone says "I like Mozart. I want to be Mozart" .
So the Director says, "Very well, you can be Mozart" Then he turns to Arnie and says "Arnie, who would you like to play ?" And Arnie says "Ah'll be Bach!"

It seems that Mary Poppins has moved to California. She has started a business telling people's fortunes. But, she doesn't read palms or tea leaves, she smells one's breath. That, right, the sign outside reads: Super California Mystic Expert Halitosis.

Queen Nyteshade had two claims to fame. She could tell fortunes and she was a midget. The local authorities frowned on her because they thought that fortune telling was fraudulent, and they had Queeny arrested. She was placed in a holding cell, but since she was so small she was able to squeeze between the bars of her cell and escape. This so angered the judge that he ordered the local newspaper to print an article about the culprit. The following was printed in the paper the next day. Small medium at large.

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Actual News Headlines

“Man Steals Clock, Faces Time”

“Man Struck by Lightning Faces Battery Charge”

“Red Tape Holds Up New Bridge”

“Foreign Head Seeks Arms”

“Miners Refuse to Work after Death”

“If Strike isn't Settled Quickly, It May Last a While”

“Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures”

“Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over”

“Two Sisters Reunited after 18 Years in Checkout Counter”

“Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers”

We Serve