Tag Archives: 2020

Ways to Appreciate the End of Summer

03 Thursday Sep 2020

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We probably don’t have to tell you that Monday, September 7, 2020, (Labor Day) is the unofficial end to summer and the beginning of autumn. There’s no question that these cooler days have been feeling quite fall-like, but this year has been different than those we have experienced in the past. There were days in 2020 that felt like they were never going to end, yet the summer seemed to fly by, leaving many of us wondering, “Was I able to get out and enjoy it?”

You’re not alone in this feeling, but believe it or not, there is still time to get out and make the most of the fleeting season. Here are a few ideas to help you enjoy all that summer has to offer:  

  • Take a hike at a state or local park
  • Create a bonfire and toast a marshmallow
  • Enjoy an afternoon fishing at your favorite river or stream
  • Watch the sunrise or set (depending on whether you’re an early bird or more of a night owl)
  • Grab a blanket and pack a picnic lunch
  • Stay up late and catch a firefly light show
  • Take off your shoes and walk barefoot through lush green grass
  • Sit outside and admire the stars. There’s nothing quite like a clear night sky to remind us about the big, beautiful world we live in

The forecast shows that aside from a small chance of isolated thunderstorms on Sunday, it’s supposed to be a gorgeous weekend. We’d like to remind you to get out and enjoy the unofficial end to the Wisconsin summer, but always remember that it will be back again in no time at all.

Our office will be closed on Monday, September 1 in observance of the holiday. From all of us at Lions Pride, we’d like to wish you a safe and happy Labor Day Weekend!

No Fans at Indy 500

20 Thursday Aug 2020

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Many of us will agree that summer 2020 is unlike any summer in recent memory. Although we may still be able to go out and soak up plenty of Vitamin D, there’s likely a lot of people we’d like to see and various events we’d love to attend.

The latest national event seeing drastic changes is the Indianapolis 500. There were six times in history where the race was cancelled due to war, but the first time, no fans will be in attendance watching the race in real-time.

The Indy 500 originally scheduled for Sunday, May 24, was postponed. In June, Indianapolis Motor Speedway made plans to reschedule the event for August and drop the maximum capacity down 50% (approximately 175,000 fans.) They were hoping the situation wouldn’t change, but the pandemic had other plans. Since the June 26 announcement, Marion County in Indiana has seen positive cases of coronavirus triple and positivity rates double.

Penske Entertainment Corp president and CEO Mark Miles says that he hopes fans know that they’ve done everything possible to continue the race with an audience. Still, they were committed to putting the health and safety of the community first for the very beginning.

Officials recently concluded that the 2020 race happening on Sunday, August 23, will be closed to the general public. Fortunately, those who had purchased tickets will be credited for the 2021 race and retain their seniority.

We’ve seen it time and time again this summer, but coronavirus has been the ultimate party crasher. Here at Lions Pride, we’ve had to cancel or postpone our favorite events like the Sporting Clays Fundraiser, our annual meeting and the Friendship 100.

What events and activities have you personally been missing this summer? Let us know in the comments below.

We know that 2020 has anything but a typical year but remember that we’re all in this together, and we will get through the uncertainty in due time. Hang in there!

Observing International Day of Friendship in 2020

30 Thursday Jul 2020

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You are likely familiar with the phrase, “Distance makes the heart grow fonder,” right? We know that this saying is typically used to describe star-crossed lovers, but in today’s current environment, we think it also works to describe the way people are feeling about their beloved friends.

We don’t have to tell you that life has seemingly changed overnight due to COVID-19. Many people are choosing to eat in, postponing family gatherings and other significant events and avoiding contact with close friends. Although saying no to getting together may be a wise choice to stop the spread of the virus, there’s no denying that continually making these decisions have been difficult, particularly the last one. Friendship is one of life’s greatest blessings, so not being able to spend time with those we love is challenging, to say the least.  

One way to get through the foreseeable future is to start by celebrating International Friendship Day, which happens each July.  

The holiday was first created in 1958 (previously known as World Friendship Day) by the World Friendship Crusade to foster a culture of peace and friendship. Over 50 years later, in 2011, the General Assembly of the United Nations declared July 30 as International Day of Friendship. The idea behind the celebration was the message that friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and individuals can work to inspire world peace and build bridges between communities.

Now you might be wondering, how can we observe International Day of Friendship during a pandemic? Don’t worry! We have a few ideas to get you started:

  • Create a photo collage of special memories of you and your friend and then frame it to deliver an extra special gift. The happy memories will likely inspire you to plan your next adventure when life has settled down.
  • Send a small gift of flowers, chocolates, or cookies to let a friend know that you are thinking about him or her.
  • Put your creativity to work by crafting a handmade item such as a knitted scarf, homemade salsa or special care package. There’s never been a better time to try a new hobby!
  • Write a post on Facebook or your favorite social network to brag about your best friends. Your status update could include all of the reasons you enjoy being their friend or something as simple as saying, “I miss seeing you!”
  • Honor a friend with a donation to their favorite nonprofit organization. Consider donating to Lions Pride and designating your gift for the Wisconsin Lions Camp. It is, after all, the place where hundreds of friendships are made each year.
  • Try to call, text or email your friends to let you know that you’re thinking about them and feel so lucky to call them friends.

We know that we may not be able to see our friends as often as we like given the coronavirus pandemic, but that doesn’t mean we can’t tell them how we feel. How will you celebrate your friends today?

Happy International Day of Friendship from Lions Pride!

Wisconsin Lions Camp Summer 2020 Updates

28 Thursday May 2020

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2020 Lions Lake

Photo Credit to Wisconsin Lions Camp

Although the shelter-in-place orders have been lifted and businesses are starting to open up again in Wisconsin and all over the country, there’s no denying that coronavirus remains on everyone’s minds. Since we have already seen major summer events either canceled or postponed, you may be wondering, “Will Lions Camp be open during the summer of 2020?”

We are happy to inform you that the answer is yes, but modifications have been made in light of the pandemic. As you know, we learn new information every day, so not all programming has been finalized. At this time, the Block One Programs have been scheduled, but you’ll notice many limitations that have never been seen before. Unfortunately, the biggest change relates to the camper age requirements. All Block One Programs happening from June 28 to July 15, will only allow campers between the ages of 16 and 17 years old. Below you will find the updated schedule (as of May 18, 2020):

June 8 – June 18
Staff Training (Required for those working the full summer and block one)

Block One

June 21 – June 26
Adults who are Blind or Visually Impaired (Cancelled)

June 28 – July 3
Children with Intellectual Disabilities or Autism – Limited to ages 16 and 17 campers only

July 5 – July 10
Children with Intellectual Disabilities or Autism Limited to ages 16 and 17 campers only

July 12 – July 15
Mini Camp Program: Children with Intellectual Disabilities or Autism (Cancelled)

The application deadline has recently passed for the Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Blind or visually impaired children with epilepsy programs. The Adults who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing application will be available until July 17. The staff hopes to have the Block Two Program Schedule by Monday, June 22. See the entire schedule here.

The staff continues to evaluate the situation as additional information becomes available. Stay tuned for updates. For questions or concerns regarding the coronavirus update, please contact Andrea Yenter, Camp Director, at ayenter@wisconsinlionscamp.com or Evett Hartvig, Executive Director, at ehartvig@wlf.info.

Life may feel may normal than it has in quite some time, but coronavirus continues to have an impact on businesses and organizations all over the country. We believe it’s worth mentioning that we are all learning how to navigate the world post-COVID. Be sure to practice patience and compassion as you go about your day. It’s been said dozens of ways, but remember that we’re all in this together.

From all of us at Lions Pride, be kind and stay healthy!

2020 Tax Filing Extension

09 Thursday Apr 2020

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Typically, this would be the time of year when people would be concerned about filing their taxes on time, but there is another worry on everyone’s mind – COVID-19.

Due to the current health and economic state of the country, the Treasury Department and IRS recently announced that it would be extending the federal income due date from April 15 to July 15, 2020. This announcement follows the Presidents’ emergency declaration to pursue the Stafford Act as we all learn to navigate life through a pandemic. Like the IRS, the state of Wisconsin has also extended the filing deadline.

Additionally, taxpayers will have the option to defer federal and state tax payments until July, without penalties and interest, regardless of the amount owed. This deadline applies to all taxpayers, to include individuals, trusts and estates, corporations and all other non-corporate tax filers as well as those who pay self-employment tax. There is no need to make any special requests to qualify for this deferment, as it applies to everyone.

Although the filing deadline has been extended, IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig encourages taxpayers not to procrastinate, especially if expecting a refund. At this time, most tax refunds are still being issued with 21 days.

If you are still working with your tax preparer on last year’s taxes, Lions Pride would like to remind you to practice extra patience and display even more kindness to essential business workers during this time. We are all being tested with daily challenges and are doing the best we can in the given situation.

Remember that we are in this battle together. Please continue to follow guidelines from CDC. Stay safe out there!

Chinese New Year: The Year of the Rat

23 Thursday Jan 2020

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Happy New Year! No, we’re not losing our minds. We know that the calendar says January 23, but Saturday is the start of Chinese New Year.

You may be interested in learning that Chinese New Year is celebrated by more than 20% of the world’s population. Also known as the Spring Festival, the celebration was originally created as a ceremonial day to pray to the gods for a successful harvest season. Today, people treat the holiday as one to welcome spring and new beginnings.

The Spring Festival is the longest Chinese holiday, taking place from January 25 to February 8. The dates vary each year as the holiday timeframe is based on the lunar calendar. On the day before the new year, families thoroughly sweep their homes to remove all of the bad luck and make space for the good. They then gather with loved ones for a reunion dinner. That evening, fireworks are set off to keep monsters and bad luck away. Learn more about the traditions.

Each year is represented by one of the 12 zodiac animals. 2020 is the Year of the Rat. Respective years include 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008 and 2020. Those of you who were born in these years are known for your “acute observation, positive attitude and flexible mind.” Learn more about the Rat’s personality and characteristics.

Generally, your zodiac year is seen as an unlucky one, but 2020 will unfold reasonably well for the Rat. Here is a list of lucky elements that may help keep your spirits high:

Lucky colors: blue, gold, green

Lucky numbers: 2, 3

Lucky flowers: lily, African violet

Believe it or not, this will not be the last New Year we will celebrate in 2020. As many of you already know, in just five short months, we will be preparing for the Lionistic New Year. Lions Pride would like to thank you for your dedication and service to the Lions organization and ask you to consider a donation/Gift in the New Year.

Will you plan to celebrate the Year of the Rat? We’d love to hear in the comments below.

Happy Chinese New Year!

Celebrating Friendship with A.A. Milne

16 Thursday Jan 2020

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 “We didn’t realize that we were making memories. We just knew we were having fun.” -Winnie the Pooh

We know that some time may have passed since you’ve thought about Christopher Robin. However, if you are a parent or grandparent, there’s no doubt that you are familiar with the name.

Saturday, January 18, is fondly known as Winnie the Pooh Day, the anniversary of A.A. Milne’s birthday. The author was best known for creating a collection of stories surrounding his son, Christopher Robin, and his honey-loving teddy bear.

Within these stories, Milne sent Christopher on wonderful adventures with Pooh, Piglet and the other characters from the Hundred Acre Wood. Each story always brought a lot of fun, as well as an important life lesson. It should come as no wonder that over 50 million copies have been sold worldwide, over the last 90+ years.

All of this discussion about growth and adventure makes us think of another place where friendships are made, a little closer to home.

The Wisconsin Lions Camp provides an experience for children and adults with special needs to come together for a week of joy. The goals are to assist in the development of self-confidence, interdependence, social skills, outdoor recreational skills and environmental awareness, but most importantly, to have a fun, safe, memorable adventure – all at no cost to their families.

Do you know a child or adult that would benefit from this experience? Please encourage them to apply! As of today, online and paper applications are now available. See the complete 2020 schedule below: 

Block One

 

June 7 – June 12                     Adults who are Blind or Visually Impaired

June 14 – June 19                   Children with Type 1 & 11 Diabetes

June 21 – June 26                   Children with Type 1 & 11 Diabetes

June 28 – July 3                       Children with Intellectual Disabilities or Autism

July 5 – July 10                         Children with Intellectual Disabilities or Autism

July 12 – July 15                      Children with Intellectual Disabilities or Autism

 

Block Two

July 19 – July 24                      Children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

July 25 – July 31                      Children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

August 2 – August 7                Children who are Blind or Visually Impaired and Epilepsy

August 9 – August 13              Adults 18-25 with Intellectual Disabilities or Educational Autism (by invitation only)

August 17 – August 21            Adults who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

 

There’s nothing more valuable in life than being in the company of friends. Consider celebrating the unofficial occasion finding a copy of one of A.A. Milne’s classics.

Happy Winnie the Pooh Day!

National Spaghetti Day

02 Thursday Jan 2020

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2020 has officially arrived! While the changing of the calendar reminds us that it’s time to better ourselves with new exercise routines and dieting tips, we have something else on our mind – carbohydrates.

Saturday, January 4 is National Spaghetti Day, and we’re celebrating the best we know how – with fun facts about spaghetti and meatballs:

  • If you were to travel to Italy, you would likely not see spaghetti and meatballs on the menu. Contrary to popular belief, spaghetti and meatballs is not an Italian dish. The European country may be well known for its pasta, but It is believed that Italian immigrants modified their version of the meatball (known as the polpette) to be more budget-friendly when they first came to America. (Smithsonian)
  • Spaghetti is the plural form of the Italian word, spaghetto, which means “thin string” or “twine.” (Bon Appetit)
  • The third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, is often credited as the first person to introduce America to pasta. (History)
  • Spaghetti is only one of over 600 pasta shapes. There is short pasta, long pasta, pasta that can be used in soups and pasta that can be stuffed. Each kind has its own individual purpose. (Pasta Fits)
  • The average American eats about 20 pounds of pasta each year. We understand that this may sound like a lot, but it’s only a fraction of what an Italian person consumes. The average person in Italy eats more than 51 pounds annually. (Tastemade)
  • On April 1, 1957, BBC aired a false documentary featuring Swiss spaghetti crops. After its debut, the news station received mixed reviews. Hundreds of hopeful viewers were questioning where they could get plans of their own, while others failed to see the humor in the broadcast. To this day, this spoof is known as one of the most brilliant April Fools pranks in history. (BBC)

Will you be celebrating National Spaghetti Day with a big bowl of pasta, or will you be staying away from carbs in the immediate future? Let us know in the comments below.

No matter how you choose to celebrate this fun unofficial holiday, we hope you can use these fun facts to impress your family and friends. Happy National Spaghetti Day from Lions Pride!