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Get Out and Enjoy Our State Parks

15 Thursday Apr 2021

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Every April, the National Park Service and National Park Foundation team up to celebrate America’s natural treasures. This year, National Park Week will take place from April 17 to April 25. What better time to get out and explore everything that Mother Nature has to offer?

If you recall, life in April of 2020 looked quite different from what we were used to experiencing. Most of the country was locked down and Wisconsin residents were advised to follow the “Safer at Home” order. Adventure seekers were encouraged to commemorate National Park Week virtually.

Fast forward 12 months and our lives are starting to look a little more normal. As the COVID vaccine continues to rollout, many people are anxious to get out and participate in activities that may not have been easy or possible during the pandemic. Might we suggest taking a trip to take in one of three Wisconsin National Parks?

Apostle Islands

Located in Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore consists of 21 islands and one 12-mile mainland unit dedicated to preservation and public enjoyment.

Ice Age

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1200-mile trail that spans the entire state from north to south and east to west. Trailheads and access points are located in many places along the route. If you are looking to hike for a day, week or even a month, the Ice Age Trail is an incredible way to explore.

Saint Croix

The St. Croix National Scenic Riverway offers over 200 miles of water surrounded by a beautiful forest landscape. Choose your mode of transportation by foot or paddle.

Although it feels like we are on the home stretch, please remember that we are not through the pandemic just yet. Before planning your trip, be sure to check the park website to verify its operating status. Masks are also required on NPS-administered lands where social distancing cannot be maintained as well as inside all NPS buildings and facilities. Follow their guidelines for recreating responsibly.

Which Wisconsin National Park would you be most interested in visiting? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy National Park Week from Lions Pride!

The Pandemic’s Effect on Hunger & World Food Day 2020

15 Thursday Oct 2020

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As residents of planet Earth, we all have certain necessities that we need to satisfy to survive. We bet it wouldn’t take long for you to list these items. We all need shelter, water, air and, of course, food. Unfortunately, just because these needs are necessary doesn’t mean that they are guaranteed for us all.

According to 2016 data from LCI, over 815 million people around the world are impacted by hunger. Sadly, as the world continues to face the negative impacts of the pandemic, this number has likely increased. And, unless we take immediate action now, we all risk a worldwide food emergency that could have lingering effects on hundreds of millions of our global neighbors.

Before we get too ahead of ourselves, let’s take a step back with some terminology, starting by defining hunger. When people face food insecurity, they are not able to meet their food requirements or consume enough calories for a normal, active life. This long-term struggle unquestionably leads to ongoing, future implications for these individuals. Learn more about the challenge COVID-19 presents for both food and agriculture.

The evidence has become clear, although there is enough food on our planet for everyone, too many of our neighbors are battling hunger. That’s why the timing of the next UN international holiday couldn’t be more fitting – World Food Day.

Each year on October 16, the United Nations celebrates the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization in 1945. Like all major events in 2020, the 75th anniversary will be different than events in years past.   

On Friday, FAO Special Ambassadors, heads of the Rome-based UN agencies and other keynote speakers will meet virtually to ensure everyone is able to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and access to healthy and nutritious food. You can join in by watching the webcast.

Naturally, we are always looking for new ways to make the world a better place. Although we may not be a direct line in the global food chain operation, there are still ways to make a positive impact. Remember that consumers also play an important role. How will you choose to make a difference?

Happy World Food Day from Lions Pride!

Celebration in the Age of Social Distancing

02 Thursday Jul 2020

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Family Fishing at Sunset

July has finally arrived! It’s time for us to flip the calendar month and start thinking about the upcoming holiday – Independence Day!

Typically, America’s birthday is filled with many different types of public celebrations including parades, fireworks and fairs, but the majority of these events have been either canceled or postponed due to COVID-19.

We understand that you’re probably not thrilled with the idea of celebrating another holiday during a pandemic, but it is still possible to safely enjoy the 4th of July. Consider incorporating these tips into your weekend itinerary.

  1. Review your local community updates

    Before planning a get-together, be sure to review updates from your local health department to have a better understanding of the situation in your community. You can also learn about local orders, business re-openings and other safety guidelines.

  2. Keep your group small

    The more closely you interact with others and the longer the interaction, the greater the risk of spread. If you choose to gather with loved ones, please try to keep your group number low.

  3. Try to stay outdoors

    “Social distancing” has now become a phrase that we have become all too familiar with. To safely stay within 6 feet of others, choose an outdoor space. Indoor spaces, in general, are riskier than outdoor spaces because there’s less ventilation, and it’s more challenging to keep people apart.

  4. Bring your own supplies

    If you are dining together, consider bringing along your own food, beverages and picnic supplies to avoid sharing items with those outside your immediate family.
  5. Wash your hands

We know, we know; this is a rule you probably won’t ever forget, but we think it never hurts to give friendly reminders. Hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol will work while spending time outdoors but don’t remove all types of germs. When you return home, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

We’ll be the first to say 2020 has been tough. It’s challenging to spend holiday after holiday without the large company of family and friends, but with a little perseverance and dedication, we can all work together to fight coronavirus.

The Lions Pride Board and Staff would like to wish you a safe, healthy 4th of July!

Plant a Tree This Arbor Day

23 Thursday Apr 2020

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Lions Lake in Fall

Photo Credit to Wisconsin Lions Camp

Friday marks the observance of Arbor Day, a holiday dedicated to celebrating the beneficial role that trees play in our lives. Of course, this year’s celebration will be different we’ve seen in years past due to the novel coronavirus and extended “Safer to Home” Orders.

Two years ago, we developed tips on planning a tree planting project with a group, but we know that these points may not be especially pertinent to life in 2020 since none of us can predict when it will be considered safe to gather in groups. However, we think it’s important to bear in mind that planting a tree doesn’t necessarily require a group; instead, it may be a memorable outing for families wanting to make a positive impact on the environment.

Since the ground is no longer frozen (that is here in Central Wisconsin,) now is a fantastic time to plant a tree. By planting in the spring, you allow the tree an opportunity to grow all summer long then prepare for the cold winter months. Nonetheless, there are a few challenges that you will likely need to address. With the help of BHG, we’ve compiled a few tips to improve your chances of a successful tree planting:

  1. Safety first! Before even picking up the shovel, please be sure there will be no utility lines down below. Call the Diggers Hotline (811) before planning to dig. The dispatcher will ask you questions about your project and will need to reach out to local public utilities, which can take some time. The best time to call is two to three days before digging your hole.
  2. When you are ready to plant, dig a hole two to three times as wide as the root ball of your tree to allow for sufficient backfill soil.
  3. As you place the root ball within the hole, be sure to handle carefully to keep it all intact.
  4. Once the root ball is in your ideal location, surround it with lightly packed soil. Loose soil will help the roots grow easily.
  5. The biggest obstacle to planting in the spring is that the tree will need to make new roots and new leaves at the same time, which requires a lot of sugar and water. Be sure to give the tree a large drink of water just after planting and every day for weeks after. Adding mulch to the base of the tree will help keep the weeds out and reduce water loss.

If you are a Lion or Lioness, and plan to plant one or more trees in observance of Arbor Day, we invite you to share your numbers with Multiple District’s Environmental Chair, Lion Anita LeCleir at tia1937@yahoo.com.

At Lions Pride, our job is to preserve, protect and provide for Lions Camp and all other WLF projects, but we think those three essential words can also be applied to our responsibility as conscious citizens.

Instead of thinking of Arbor Day as just a one-day celebration, perhaps we can consider it as an opportunity to continually come up with new ways to improve the world around us. Remember that small steps, like planting a tree, can have a positive effect on our environment as well as generations to come.

Thank you for continuing to protect Planet Earth!

 

Fun Facts About Beer

26 Thursday Sep 2019

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depth of field photo of two pilsner glasses

Photo by Matan Segev on Pexels.com

Are you looking for something to do this weekend? If so, you might be interested in finding out that Saturday, September 28, is National Drink Beer Day. We weren’t able to track the origin of the unofficial holiday, but we’re sure that many Wisconsinites would agree you don’t need an excuse to enjoy an ice-cold pint of your favorite brew.

To celebrate National Drink Beer Day, we thought we could come into the weekend with a few fun facts about the world’s oldest beverage of choice:

  • Beer brewing and drinking predates human history.
  • Beer Soup was a typical breakfast choice for people in medieval Europe.
  • Although there are hundreds of different kinds of styles of beers, they all fall into two primary categories, ales and lagers. Their differentiating factors come back to the type of yeast and how it ferments during the brewing process.
  • Munich’s most popular event, Oktoberfest, originally began as a celebration of the 1810 marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig.
  • Beer is the third-most popular drink in the world, following water and tea. It is worth noting; however, the most popular alcoholic beverage of choice.
  • Although Wisconsin is often known as the top drinking state, is actually #5. The most beer drinking per capita takes place in New Hampshire (as of 2017.)
  • If you’re looking for a craft beer, you will be happy to learn that most Americans live within 10 miles of a craft brewery.
  • The most expensive state to buy a beer may be Tennessee, which has the highest state excise taxes in the country.
  • Milwaukee is known as the beer capital of the world, as its home to a few of the most significant American brewers – Miller, Schlitz, Pabst and Blatz. The city also has a large German population.

If you plan to observe National Drink Beer Day this Saturday, please remember to do so responsibly. The Lions Pride Board and Staff would like to wish you a safe and enjoyable weekend!

Wisconsin’s Gone Fishin’

02 Thursday May 2019

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Pack your fishing rod, tackle box and bait because the fishing season has nearly arrived!

landscape photo of riverand pine trees

Photo by eberhard grossgasteiger on Pexels.com

This Saturday, May 4, is opening day for Wisconsin fishing.

Fishing is one of the most popular recreational activities in the United States. According to the 2018 Outdoor Industry Special Report, more than 49 million Americans enjoyed recreational fishing in 2017. During that year, approximately 16.5 percent of the US population went fishing at least once.

The sport’s popularity has not come by accident. In addition to just being an enjoyable pastime, fishing also brings several important health benefits. If you’re looking for an excellent reason to get out on the water this weekend, we’ll give you five:

  1. Reduce your blood pressure

    Studies have shown that spending time in nature helps to lower blood pressure, but the exact reason is not yet known. Additionally, you don’t have to spend all day outdoors to enjoy these benefits, 30 minutes per week is enough to improve blood pressure and overall health. But remember, the more time outside, the better!

  2. Unplug and unwind

    We live in a noisy world. Let us set the scene to see if you can relate. You start the day with a cup of coffee in front of the morning news, drive to work with the radio blaring, spend the day in front of a computer and constant interruptions before finally heading home to spend the evening watching digital screens. We all need some time away from the modern world and fishing poses as the perfect solution, a time to unplug and appreciate only the sounds of nature.

  3. Stand up

    Too many Americans spend the day sitting. Research has shown that the average person sits about 12 hours each day. This inactivity, which has become known as “the sitting disease,” is the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality. Fortunately, fishing gives anglers an opportunity to stand up.

  4. Keep your brain sharp

    As people age, cognitive abilities will typically decline, and memory problems can take place. The best way to keep your brain healthy is to challenge it with mentally stimulating activities. According to Harvard Health Publications, to stay sharp, people should continue learning, use all of their senses and have confidence in oneself – all of which would fall in line with fishing.

  5. Spend time with family and friends

    Most would agree that there’s no better way to spend time, then with friends and family. Fishing is a great way to pass the morning or spend the day. Of course, you may need to make a few adjustments when fishing with others, especially those who wouldn’t consider themselves to be experienced anglers.

As you may already know, hook and line fishing for many fish species on several Wisconsin waterways begins on opening day, but season dates are often specific to fish species as well as the body of water. The best way to start planning your fishing trip is to download the DNR 2019-2020 fishing season dates.

Before heading out on the water, be sure to purchase your fishing license. Registration is available online, in various sales locations and at one of the DNR Service Centers.

The staff at Lions Pride would like to wish you luck out on the water this season. Happy Fishing!

19 Resolution Ideas for 2019

27 Thursday Dec 2018

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Here we are again: the last full week of the year. It’s so hard to believe that we’ve made Depositphotos_219456322_m-2015our way through another year. As we make preparations to close out 2018, many of us are likely reflecting on the past 360 days while looking to the year ahead, perhaps brainstorming new ways for self-improvement. Yes – that means resolutions.

New Year’s Resolutions have developed a bad reputation; in fact, many of us downright despise them. We can’t say that reputation is unwarranted; however. For the first few weeks of the new year, we are all bombarded with messages telling us that we are not good enough as we are, followed by pressure to make drastic changes, and burning out only weeks later – leaving us feeling bad about failure.

Call us wacky, but we think part of the reason why New Year’s Resolutions are so easy to hate is that we put too much burden on ourselves to succeed with vague, unrealistic expectations. Rather than challenging ourselves to “eat more healthy” or “get more exercise,” many of us may find success by creating less extreme, new habits.

To celebrate the beginning of a new chapter, we’ve put together a list of 19 New Year’s Resolutions to help spark inspiration for 2019 self-improvement:

  1. Read more books
  2. Be more positive
  3. Keep a journal
  4. Pick up a new hobby
  5. Take more road trips
  6. Stop procrastinating
  7. Meet new people
  8. Reduce stress
  9. Get more sleep
  10. Become more organized
  11. Drink more water
  12. Volunteer
  13. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables
  14. Improve your financial literacy
  15. Be more grateful
  16. Watch less TV
  17. Start being more polite
  18. Take more walks
  19. Give back an organization you care about

Will you make a New Year’s Resolution – why or why not? Tell us in the comments below.

Regardless of whether or not you choose to make an official resolution, we’d like to wish a bright year ahead. Keep in mind, the New Year is merely a poetic message, we have all year to be our best selves. May 2019 be the greatest year yet.

Happy New Year from Lions Pride!

Preparing Your Family for an Emergency

14 Thursday Sep 2017

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If the last two weeks have taught us anything, it’s that you never know when disaster willkit_supplies strike. In the past twenty days, we’ve seen forest fires to the west, an earthquake in Mexico and hurricanes to the south. With tragedy affecting families all over the country and the world, now is the time to send resources to those in need and prepare ourselves for our own emergencies that may come up.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that nearly half of all US adults do not have a plan in place in the event of an emergency. Would you fall into that category? If so, there’s never been a better time to think ahead by developing an emergency supply kit. Below is a list of items that you’ll need:

  • At least a 3-day supply of food and water

You likely won’t have time to run to the grocery store before a possible emergency, which is why it’s so important to have a supply readily available. Plan on going through one gallon of water per person, per day. When stocking food, be sure to find items that are easy to make and won’t spoil like canned items and dry pastas. (Don’t forget about your furry friends; make sure that you have enough food and water for each of your pets!)

  • Manual can opener
  • Basic kitchen utensils
  • At least a 3-day supply of all medication
  • Personal care items

If a disaster occurs, you may not have the luxury of taking a hot shower, but you’ll want to make sure you have the sanitary essentials like soap, baby wipes, a toothbrush and toothpaste.

  • First aid kit
  • Emergency blanket
  • Multipurpose tool
  • Flashlight
  • Cell phone with chargers 

In today’s world, cell phones have replaced radios for many people. If you plan to receive emergency updates with your mobile phone, you’ll want to stay charged up and ready. A powerbank could save the day, if you lose electricity. 

  • Copies of important documents like insurance policies and other vital records

Of course, emergencies are not always predictable so you’ll need to make sure all of these important documents stay safe. Consider investing in a fireproof lock box, a safety deposit box or a three-ring binder with sleeves.

  • Extra cash
  • Area maps
  • Extra set of house keys or car keys

This is a preliminary list that you should utilize to get your emergency supply kit started. Unfortunately, one-size does not always fit all; you may need additional supplies to ensure your entire family is ready. For children, this may include games and activities; for pets, your kit may include transport items and cleaning supplies. Please visit this link for a complete list of items to fill up your emergency preparedness kit.

Here at Lions Pride, we don’t think there is such a thing as being too prepared. While we understand that it may be time consuming initially, the benefits definitely outweigh the costs. Take the time to prepare now and thank yourself later. Stay safe out there!

Lions Work to Help the Victims of Hurricane Harvey

31 Thursday Aug 2017

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We are days away from a holiday weekend, but not everyone will be celebrating happily. As you already know Hurricane Harvey first reached the Houston metropolis last Friday, but residents in both Texas and Louisiana are still feeling its wrath nearly a week later.

Harvey is the first Category 4 hurricane to hit the continental United States since Hurricane Charley in 2004. The tropical storm made is second appearance yesterday morning, and the weather conditions do not seem to be improving as of writing.

Several parts of Houston set a record for rainfall in a single storm; the top reading showing 51.88 inches (as of Tuesday afternoon.) A resident meteorologist reported that 25 to 30 percent of Harris County is under water. At this point, local officials have confirmed 30 flood-related deaths.

The Insurance Information Institute has stated to Fox Business that damages could end up matching the $15 billion caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. In a recent statement made by Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, the city’s focus “will continue to be on rescue” and not damage assessment.

Lions Clubs International Foundation has responded with an emergency catastrophe grant of $100,000. The grant will allow Lions in the area to provide life-saving supplies of food, water, blankets and other necessities. Please consider donating to the Lions Club International Foundation to help further their efforts on helping communities in need. We never know when or where disaster will strike, but LCIF emergency and major catastrophe grants enable local Lions to respond at a moment’s notice.

As you celebrate Labor Day weekend, the Lions Pride staff and board ask you to keep all of the families affected by this catastrophe in your thoughts and prayers. Many Texas and Louisiana lives will be changed after this event and will be in need of much support.

How is Easter Celebrated Around the World?

02 Thursday Apr 2015

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For many of us here in the United States, this Easter Sunday will be filled with Bilbydecorated eggs, jellybeans and rabbits, but the religious holiday is celebrated very differently around the world.

In Australia, the holiday is actually celebrated in the fall, but has similar customs to the United States. The biggest difference between the two is the pagan character. Rather than the bunny, you’ll see a bilby, which is a small rodent with a long nose, but rabbit-like ears.

In Norway, Easter is considered a religious holiday, but not celebrated as such. Many people retreat to their cabins or spend the weekend skiing. One unique tradition for Norwegians is the reading of Påskekrimmen (crime novels) or watching detective shows. In fact, nearly every TV channel produces a crime mystery specifically for Easter.

Greece Pot SmashingIn Greece, Easter Sunday is a truly joyous occasion. The first Resurrection is announced at 11 am; bells ring and bands parade the streets. People throw pots out the windows and off balconies that is believed to welcome spring and symbolize the new crops to be gathered in new pots.

In Mexico, you won’t see any bunnies or painted eggs. Typically, people go to Mass and celebrate quietly with their families. There are a few places where you will find music and dancing.

In Poland, Easter Sunday is similar to the United States celebration, but it’s the day after that sets us apart. On Easter Monday, boys try to drench other people with buckets of water and squirt guns. Legend says that girls who get soaked will marry within the year. (Brrr… this tradition sounds too cold for us!)

An interesting part to note is although we all celebrate the holiday differently; the reason behind the season remains the same. However you spend your holiday, Lions Pride wishes you and your family a happy Easter!

Sources:

http://www.indobase.com/holidays/easter/easter-traditions-around-the-world/easter-in-australia.html

http://www.communicaid.com/cross-cultural-training/blog/celebrating-easter-across-cultures-2/#.VRrYrKMwmG8

http://www.visitgreece.gr/en/religion/easter_in_greece

http://gomexico.about.com/od/festivalsholidays/p/holy_week.htm

http://www.womansday.com/life/travel-tips/a1411/easter-traditions-from-around-the-world-105074/