Bemidji Lions Support the Community

Weekly meetings often feature a speaker from one of the community who the Lions support. These are a few highlights of the most Lions activities. For more, visit the Bemidji Lions on Facebook.  

MN Lions Hearing Foundation D-Feet Hearing Loss Walk

The Minnesota Lions Hearing Foundation D-Feet Hearing Loss Walk was held in Bemidji hosted by the Bemidji and First City Lions Clubs. The walkers gathered in Diamond Point Park adjacent to Bemidji State University and walked to the iconic statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe in downtown Bemidji. After a photo op and a water break the walkers returned to the park for food, games and music provided by the Empty Cooler Band. The funds raised through registrations and sponsorships are used to further research into the cause and prevention of hearing loss at the University of Minnesota. See more on the Lions' Facebook page!

Bemidji HS Sign Language Program Donation

Colleen Cardenuto, Administrative Services Director, and Jordan Hickman, Human Services Director for Bemidji High School were the guest speakers at the noon Bemidji Lions Meeting. School graduation rates and the change to a five class period day from the present four class period day were among many topics touched upon. Following the discussion a $500 donation was presented to the High School Sign Language Program. Left to right are Jordan Hickman, Colleen Cardenuto, and Bemidji Lions Club President Jessica Minske.

Lions Support Scouting

Michelle Bedford, the new District Executive of Voyagers Area Council of Scouting, was the guest speaker on March 8, 2023 at the noon Bemidji Lions Club meeting. Michelle gave the members an overview of scouting in the area. After a short question and answer period, Michelle was presented with the annual club donation to assist with scouting projects. Pictured from left to right are Club First Vice President Lion Ethan Larson, Michelle Bedford, and 5M10 District Governor Elect Lion Robert Woodke.

2023 Donation to the Bemidji Public Library

Bemidji Lion Past President Leon Nelson and First Vice President Ethan Larson paid a visit to the Bemidji Public Library to make the annual Lions Club donation. Photo on right: Left to right is Leon Nelson, Ara Gallo Library Executive Director, and Ethan Larson.

2023 Food Shelf

Michael Olson , Director of the Bemidji Community Food Shelf, was the guest speaker at the weekly Lions Club Meeting. Increased food costs and reduced SNAP benefits has caused a substantial increase in food shelf use. In 2022 548,000 pounds of food was distributed to those in need. Matching funds will be received for all monetary donations during the month of March. Once again the Lions Club made their yearly donation to the Food Shelf. First Vice President Lion Ethan Larson presented the Donation to Michael Olson on behalf of the club.

Camp Confidence

Jerry Wholers from Camp Confidence visited with the Bemidji Lions at the June 29, 2022 noon meeting to share what is happening at the Camp. Following his presentation Lion First Vice President Ethan Larson and his trusty sidekick Hero presented Jerry with the club’s annual donation.

Hero the Wonder Dog

Hero, the Wonder Dog, was issued his Lions Club Bandana at Wednesday’s (August 31, 2022) meeting. Pictured with Hero is Club President Jessica Minske and trainer Ethan Larson.

2022 Raffle Winner!!!!!

Douglas Fredrickson of Shevlin, Minnesota won the Polaris ATV. Tickets were $10.00 each and were available from Bemidji Lions Club and First City Lions Club members. Tickets were also sold at local businesses and the winner could choose between the Polaris ATV or a $5000 cash prize. Doug chose the ATV! Congratulations! Everyone wishes you all the best and hopes that you enjoy this cool machine!!! Thank you to everyone who supported this fundraiser! Pictured on the photo are: Susie Balstad First City Lions, Douglas Fredrickson, Brandon Mattfeld Bemidji Sports Centre, Bev Fredrickson, and Mel Spies Bemidji Lions.

Introductions

Lions District 5M10 First Vice District Governor Jessica Minske and Second Vice District Governor Robert Woodke were introduced to the members of the Lions Club by District Governor Kathryn Smith.

Take a Kid Fishing 2022

Joy Barclay from Take A Kid Fishing was the guest Speaker at this week’s meeting. Joy shared the 33 year history of the organization. The Lions are proud to support such a worthy program.

Passing the Gavel

At the Lions swearing in ceremony, Past District Governor Dick Labraaten presented the club gavel to Jessica Minske the new Bemidji Lions Club President for the year 2022-2023

The President's Award

President Jessica Minske presented the Presidents Award to outgoing President Leon Nelson.