District 5M8 Begins the 2026–2027 Lions Year

Fellow Lions of District 5M8, welcome to a new Lions year! It is my great honor to serve as your District Governor for 2026–2027, and I could not be more excited about the year of service ahead of us.

Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom

This Lions year carries special meaning as our nation celebrates 250 years of freedom. Our communities have been built on the shoulders of those who serve, and Lions have proudly been part of that legacy for more than a century. Let's honor the milestone by doubling down on what we do best — showing up for our neighbors.

Leadership Reflections

Stepping into this role, I am deeply grateful for the leaders who came before me — most recently PDG Zach Wosmek — whose steady work set our district up for a strong year. I also want to thank every club president, secretary, and cabinet member who said yes to another year of leadership.

Global 1.5 Summit

I recently had the privilege of attending the Global 1.5 Summit, where Lions from every constitutional area gathered to sharpen our vision for the future. The energy in the room was contagious: new membership strategies, fresh service ideas, and a shared commitment to grow Lions everywhere. I came home with a notebook full of ideas I can't wait to share with our clubs.

Vision, Youth & Environment

Our district focus this year lines up with three of Lions International's global causes:

• Vision — Continuing our long tradition of sight-saving service, including screenings and support for the Minnesota Lions Vision Foundation.
• Youth — Investing in scholarships, Leo Clubs, and youth exchange so the next generation of leaders sees themselves in Lions.
• Environment — Partnering on local projects that leave our communities greener than we found them.

Encouragement to Clubs

To every club across District 5M8: your service is the reason Lions matter. Try a new project this year. Invite a new member. Celebrate a longtime Lion. Small moments of service, multiplied across our district, change lives.

Let Service Ring

The motto for the year is simple: Let Service Ring. Let's make it heard — in every zone, every town, and every corner of District 5M8.

Yours in service,
DG Diann Bellmont