From 1st Vice-President Ralph Kramer
May 1, 2010
We all have seen many changes over the past couple of years in the United States as well as in the rest of the world, some good and some maybe not so good – the economic crisis, what seems like perpetual war in some parts of the world, environmental issues, etc. Health care is being overhauled here in the United States and that too has its proponents and skeptics. We hope that it can make a difference and is fair. We are still feeling the fallout from the world economic crisis. Looks like overspending and debt of the past generations are catching up with us. Whatever results from the economic crisis I think we can say that life won‟t be exactly the same in the future. Good jobs will be tougher to find for those entering the work force. Salaries may not be as high as they once were. And we will become more frugal. The impact will be greater on the not so well off and those who rely on assistance for living, medical and, in general, getting by in life. This is where the role of organizations like the Lions will be that much more important in years to come.
Changes are also going on with our local club. We have new officers slated for the next season . We have formed committees with new tasks such as brainstorming on fund raising. We have had a few new members the past year. I see this as all good.
Coming up is our officer installation at the May 27 meeting. On June 13 there is the Leadership Training School for presidents, secretaries and treasurers (location to be announced). Last year it was at the Ohio School for the Blind and was very helpful for future officers and tail twisters. I enjoyed it last year and will go back for a refresher.
In closing, some great quotes which reflect the philosophy of our work:
“A person‟s true wealth is the good he or she does in the world.” Mohammed
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Gandhi
Lion Ralph Kramer
