Lion Robert Littlefield's "Service from the Heart" Blog

Two years ago, when Lion Kathy and I traveled to Watertown, SD for the MD5 Convention, our future was in the hands of the voting delegates who ultimately endorsed us to run for the International Board of Directors. We are so thankful for the support of our district. What an amazing experience we have had serving the Lions of the world. The people . . . the places . . . the service opportunities . . . unforgettable.

At this year’s MD5 convention, we welcomed International Director Karla and Lion Clarence Harris from South Milwaukee, Wisconsin. ID Karla and I sit side by side on the Board of Directors; and like all of the second year directors from the United States, we have become like family. Our MD5 convention was their last official visit as an International Director couple, and I can assure you that they “hit it out of the park” with their engaging personalities and deep-rooted advocacy for Lionism.

With over 200 Lions present, this year’s convention created some great new memories, including the introduction of the successful MD5 Summit providing membership and leadership training opportunities to the next generation of District leaders.

 

One tradition of MD5 is the presentation of Senior Councillor Awards to Past District Governors who remain active in their clubs, districts, or the multiple district for 10 years after their term of office. This year, eight of nine District Governors from 2006 were on hand with their spouses to receive their recognition. Thanks for the decades (cumulatively) of leadership and service!

Another special event was the arrival of Past International Director and LCI Vice Presidential Candidate, Lion Dr. Patti Hill from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. A spirited auction and fundraiser by MD5 was a successful show of support for Patti.

Three MD5 Past International Directors and I enjoyed having ID Karla at our business meetings and events.

At the Red Jacket Luncheon, the current District Governors presented the six new District Governor Elects with their Red Jackets prior to their departure to the international convention in Fukuoka, Japan. Each DGE receives a jacket from the outgoing Governor as the delegates learn more about their personal Lion histories that are narrated by their VDG trainer, PCC Rick Pockett.

One of the milestones we celebrated at this convention was the retirement of the Council of Governors’ Secretary-Treasurer Lion Mike Brand after 24 years of service in that position. Scores of Council Chairs and District Governors relied on Lion Mike to help make their terms more successful. Depending upon their individual strengths, Mike provided support to help them  in reaching their goals.

International President Yamada honored many MD5 Lions this year with Presidential Certificates of Appreciation, Leadership Medals, and Presidential Medals. The final banquet was a real celebration as two certificates, five Leadership Medals, and seven Presidential Medals are awarded.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

While ID Karla and Lion Clarence completed their visitations in Regina, Lion Kathy and I left looking forward to our final official visit to Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Best wishes to all who serve!

ID Robert and Lion Kathy Littlefield