He will begin his term on July 2, 2005 upon returning from Hong Kong, the site of the 88th International Lions Convention where he will receive his training and be sworn in to his new post.  Lions Gary is currently serving as Vice District Governor and is head of the the district's MERLO team, a member leadership program to develop new Lions members and clubs.  MERLO stands for Membership, Extension, Retention, Leadership and Orientation.