Dear Lions Members,

When I first started to look for candidates for the various cabinet positions, I was surprised at the tremendous amount of work that awaits the different committees, each one encompassing such a wide range of affairs.

The positive response of members to my request that they serve as committee chair persons made a deep impression on me as to the enormous belief that together we will succeed in achieving all the goals we have set ourselves with understanding, friendship and mutual respect. The temporary departure (hopefully) of a number of clubs should not deter us, since simultaneously there is increasing interest in towns such as: Nes Ziona, a French-speaking group, Ashdod, Nazareth Ilit, a high-tech company and others, G-d willing.

This activity began during my predecessor, District Governor Meir Porat's term along with the MERL team and I would like to thank them on behalf of all of us in Lions Israel.

We Serve is not just a slogan – it is a meaningful way of expressing our commitment to be worthy to serve our community where we are active and which needs our help so much in such a variety of spheres.

I plan this year to promote a number of new issues:

• Inter-club contacts
• District Bar/Bat Mitzva celebrations for 50 boys and girls from needy homes
• Retention and expansion of clubs, intensifying friendships and developing leadership
• Training for debates
• Promotion and PR in all towns to have Lions assimilated into public awareness
• Continuing to operate the committee for preserving information and know-how
• Expanding the activity among the sight disabled

At the same time, I plan to continue to operate at an accelerated pace the most recommended programs that have become our organization's inalienable assets. I firmly believe that this coming year will be blessed with successful endeavors. I have therefore chosen the slogan 'One hand, one Heart', and if we manage to turn it into actions and not let it remain simply as a wise saying, the organization in general and each one of us in particular will feel the benefit and enjoy the fruits of our actions.

Allow me to take this opportunity of wishing a very fruitful and Happy New Year to all Lionists in our organization and indeed everyone wherever they are.

"May He Who Holds the Earth Upon Nothing Inscribe Your Name and Seal It in the Book of Life"

With Greetings of 'One hand, one Heart'
Shalom Zhariya
Governor District 128