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My theme for this year is “Carry On.” This has
deep personal meaning to me. In October of 2019,
my friend and pastor was murdered at the church in
Fort Dodge. He would always end his conversations
with two words, “Carry on.”
I chose this theme not only as a way to remember
him but as a way to encourage clubs through
the challenges we faced as a world during this
pandemic. It is a way to continue to do things as
normally as possible. Granted, meetings with masks
in place and social distancing are not how I would
have envisioned a year as district governor, but I
am proud to say that clubs have continued to carry
on. They have carried on with their fundraisers
and community services by making changes and
adapting.
“Carry On” also has another meaning for me.
My grandfather, as well as an uncle, served as Lions
for many years. I saw the good they did in their
communities through Lions, as well as the positive
impact it had on their lives. This was something
I wanted to continue in my own life, hoping to
pass the legacy on to my children and future
grandchildren.
Clubs. Local clubs are the backbone of
Lions. This is where service happens!
Assistance. Lions Clubs provide
assistance through various ways. The first
one that comes to mind is with vision. Other major
Lion causes include disaster relief, humanitarian
efforts, youth, and diabetes as well as childhood
cancer, hunger, and environment.
Remembrances. The memory of Lions
that have served before affects each of
us. It is nice that Lions that have gone before
us are remembered at both the State and District
Conventions.
Random Acts of Kindness – Kindness
matters…in the local club, community and
beyond!
Youth. The youth are not only the future
of our clubs, but one of the reasons we are
passionate about serving.
One. Each one of you makes a
difference. Thank you for being a Lion
and making the world a better place. Remember to
regularly invite and ask at least ONE guest to your
activities.
New Ideas and New Leaders. I am
amazed by the different and new ways that
Lions have stepped up to help their communities.
From a little free library being used for mini food
pantries to symposiums on mental health for better
understanding in the community. New District
Governor Leaders – our district needs you to step
up! Please give me a call.
As my term comes to an end, I wish to thank you
for your support this year. I appreciate everyone
who helped make the year go smoothly. I would
like to thank all Lions who have welcomed me
throughout this year. My wife and I have enjoyed
meeting Lions around the state and learning
what you are doing to provide service to your
communities and world. Thanks so much for your
dedication, cooperation and service!
For all the Lions in District 9NW – thank you for
the memories. One parting thought –
Carry On!
 DG Roger presented information on the "Ask One" campaign and reminded all of us that each member needs to make an effort to help Lions Grow by ASKing ONE person to join our Lions organization. It is up to all of us to get the job done!
  DG Roger also let everyone know that Iowa Lions Foundation is offering yard signs to show where a Lion lives in your community. These signs are sturdy coroplast with wire stand that can be placed in your front yard. They are $20.00, proceeds benefit Iowa Lions Foundation.
Contact District Governor Roger at (515) 545-4487 or Email
DG Roger stressed the importance of local members stepping up and volunteering to help in the District officers areas. He is looking for Zone Chairmen and a replacement District Governor to step up. These positions are rewarding in the people you meet and the word you are allowed to place in what happens within Iowa Lions.
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