What a wonderful week in Bangkok, a city of beautiful and historic sites.

I have enjoyed spending time here surrounded by so many enthusiastic Lions and friends.

Convention delegates, make your voices heard and cast your votes for your preferred candidates. Your vote will help mold the future of Lions Clubs International. During this morning's plenary session, I will install our 2008-2009 International President Albert F. Brandel from New York, USA.

President-elect Brandel is an exceptional leader and a devoted Lion, and I look forward to our association's progress during his time as president. I strongly believe that under his leadership, the everyday heroes that make this association great will accomplish many miracles through service.

At this morning's Final Plenary Session, we will also honor Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist Muhammad Yunus with the Lions Humanitarian Award for his efforts to help the underprivleged secure loans for entrepreneurial endeavors.

This convention has been an exceptional opportunity to both reflect on our successes and look forward to the challenges of the year ahead. I believe I speak for all Lions when I offer my sincerest gratitude to the host committee of Bangkok and Lions Clubs International headquarters staff, who worked so diligently to create a truly wonderful convention for all of us.

We look forward to seeing you next year in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.

Sincerely,

Mahendra Amarasuriya
International President