NC Lions 100th State Convention (April 26-28, 2024)
This year’s state convention was one of the best and was very well attended (357). From District 31L, there were 32 attendees. It was a packed weekend full of fun and fellowship. Below is a brief summary of all the happenings.
FRIDAY
During the day, the COGs, PIDs and 3rd VP Mark Lyon received a tour of Industries of the Blind in Greensboro, NC. What an impres-sive operation. After that we went bowling with visually impaired and blind bowlers. Those of us that were sighted were blind folded. It was much more difficult than we thought. I had the pleasure of meeting Zack and he was on our team. We had a great time!
Friday evening was the Fun Night and that it was. There was a meal followed by Dueling Pianos. Most loved the entertainment and that was shown by the amount of songs requested, dancing a Conga line around the room and so many on the dance floor. During the evening, the Peace Poster and the Celebrate Liberty winners were introduced along with their families. District 31L is very proud that both state winners were from our district. We had the pleasure of hearing the Peace Poster winner, Jovie Andler, speak about what in-spired her for the drawing. Dallas Blackwell, the essay winner, read his essay that was well received. Congratulations!!
SATURDAY
The day started with the tail twister breakfast. It was a plated breakfast and there were a lot of items to be auctioned. For the items auctioned and donations, $5,030 was collected of which half is going to Brighter Visions and half going to LCIF. A big thank you to CCE George Suggs. He did a great job, as always!
We then moved on to the Town Hall Meeting with 3rd VP Mark Lyon and his Partner in Service, Lion Lynn, who presented an inspiring speech and held a question-and-answer session.
Following the meeting, was a Miracles in Sight presentation followed by round table sessions that were very informative.
The Saturday night banquet included Hall of Fame awards and Presidential and Leadership awards. I am proud to announce that PDG Curtis Erickson, Mills River Lions Club, was inducted into the Hall of Fame. PDG Curtis’s team also won the Golf Tournament. Presidential and Leadership awards were presented by PIP Sid Scruggs to Lion Tammy Thomas, PDG Michael Schwartz and Lion Tony Angel. Lion Tony could not attend so I will be presenting the award to him in person soon. Congratulations to all the winners of the well-deserved awards.
Additionally, PID Dr. Lacy Presnell presented to each of the District Governors, a Sid L. Scruggs Beacon of Hope. We were all very honored.
Also, during the banquet, 3rd VP Mark installed three new members for District 31L. What a wonderful surprise and honor for me (DG Susan) to sponsor my husband, Juan, who is now a Lion. Lion Tammy Thomas sponsored Scott MacLean and 1st DGE Eileen Artavia sponsored Brandon Guerrero. Congratulations to all three and welcome to the Lions family.
SUNDAY
The day began with a Service of Remembrance for those Lions who have passed over the last year.
Following the service, the district cabinet meetings were held and a general session.
DG Susan, DGE Dawson, and 1st VDGE Eileen hope to see many more of you next year at the State Convention. It was a wonderful experience full of fun and fellowship. Thank you for your continued service.
Kindest regards,
Susan Fernandez
District Governor
The 2024 LCI Convention will be held on June 21 - 25 in Melbourne, Australia.
With Melbourne’s combination of world-class dining, art galleries, homegrown fashion and a packed sports calendar, it’s no surprise Victoria’s capital is regarded the world’s most livable city. The centre of Melbourne is threaded with cobbled laneways, which have become a mecca for coffee shops, cafés and unique shopping boutiques. Start at Flinders Street station, wander down Degraves Street and explore the city’s beautiful arcades and street art around every corner.
More information will be posted as it becomes available.
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