Cadott Lions receive recognition for service
The Cadott Lions Club held their annual Governor’s Night banquet, to hear an update on the club and thank members who have made an impact on the club over the past year.
District Gov. Steve Jensen gave a short speech on his goals for Cadott, and the other clubs in the district.
Steve began, by noting that the area was the beginning for the district, with Cadott’s club starting Oct. 2, 1947.
“You’ve got a 75th anniversary coming up,” said Steve.
He also noted it is a big year for all Lions in Wisconsin, as 2021 marks 100 years, of Lionism in Wisconsin.
The membership goal Steve would like each club in the district to strive for, is to have a net positive of one member.
“That will keep us ahead,” said Steve.
He also says the district is looking for more people to take on leadership roles and reminded club members to report their service work online.
“The COVID event has presented challenges,” said Steve, “but it sounds like you met the challenge with your chicken dinners.”
Steve says he knows the thought of having to change a long-standing event, like the chicken dinners, can be scary, but commended the group for thinking outside of the box.
“There’s nothing wrong with holding onto the box, while you’re outside,” said Steve.
He also encouraged the club to take what they learned over the past year, and incorporate it into future events and to find ways to continue service events, just as they have with fundraisers.
“We are still one of the best-kept secrets in the country,” said Steve. “We have a tendency not to toot our own horn.”
Steve encouraged the group to be proud of their service, to help spread the word about the Lions. He also asked members to think of more young people to recruit to become a Lion, such as children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
“Remember, to be a Lion, you need to be asked,” said Steve.
Jeanne Jensen, a Wisconsin Lions Foundation (WLF) director, also gave an update on the foundation. She said the foundation is also looking for more leaders to step up and fill positions.
“When you leave a WLF meeting, you’re just amazed at all of the good things that happen out at that camp,” said Jeanne, of the Wisconsin Lions Camp in Rosholt.
Jeanne says the camp was closed for some of the summer, but was still able to serve 118 campers. She says some fundraisers were canceled, but thinks the camp will continue to do well with help from the clubs.
“Things are looking good, within the Wisconsin Lions Foundation,” said Jeanne.
She also encouraged members to visit the camp, once visitor days are opened again.
Following the updates, Cadott Lions were recognized for their work throughout the year. Included in the recognitions, the Lion of the Year Award was presented to Julie Nielsen.
“Julie is currently very involved in our brat sales and is currently chairman of the Brat Committee,” said Sue Shakal, who presented the award.
Next, Brian Geissler presented the Birch-Sturm Fellowship to Gary Licht. The fellowship recognizes individuals who exemplify dedication to Lionism. Geissler says Licht is always willing to pitch in and get things done – and makes good chicken.
Gary King was recognized with the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award, for his service to others through the Lions, which he has been a member of since 2001.
“You should take great pride in knowing that you will impact many lives, both in your immediate community and across the globe,” said Steve.
Shakal was also thanked for her leadership as the past president of the Cadott Lions Club, with a plaque.
(To the left) Gary Licht was awarded the Birch-Sturm Fellowship, for his willingness to pitch in and help get things done. The fellowship recognizes individuals who exemplify Lionism. (To the right) The Melvin Jones Fellowship was presented to Gary King. King was recognized for his dedication to humani-
Cutline: District Gov. Steve Jensen commended the Cadott Lions Club, Oct. 14, for stepping up to the challenge the COVID-19 pandemic set forth. He also encouraged the club to apply what they have learned over the past year, to future events. Photo by Julia Wolf [caption id="attachment_96074" align="alignnone" width="300"]
Julie Nielsen (right) was recognized for her work with the brat stand, with the Lion of the Year Award. The award was presented by Sue Shakal (left), who also received recognition for her prior role as club president. Photo by Julia Wolf[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_96075" align="alignnone" width="300"]
Gary Licht was awarded the Birch-Sturm Fellowship, for his willingness to pitch in and help get things done. The fellowship recognizes individuals who exemplify Lionism. Photo by Julia Wolf[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_96076" align="alignnone" width="200"]
The Melvin Jones Fellowship was presented to Gary King. King was recognized for his dedication to humanitarian service. Photo by Julia Wolf[/caption]
