Courtesy photo Loyst Trombley, left, and Ben Viau stand next to the sign during the opening of the Masonville Township Park. The Lions Club purchased the land and built the pavilion at the park.

RAPID RIVER — The Rapid River Lions Club is seeking new members to continue with its noble causes.

Lions were first chartered in 1917, and at the 1925 convention, Hellen Keller asked the Lions to become “Knights of the Blind.” Today, there are Lions in more than 200 countries, serving as “Knights of the Blind.”

The Rapid River Lions were chartered in 1972 with Lion Jim Decremer — who is still a member — serving as president. Since then, the group has contributed to projects and organizations like Leader Dogs For The Blind, Project Kids Sight, Bay Cliff Health Camp, YMCA Strong Kids Program, Northwoods Air Lifeline, Diabetes Awareness, Teaching Family Homes, Hearing Preservation Awareness, Ever Sight (Eye Bank), a Rapid River High School scholarship, Key Club, the fight against childhood cancer, and the U.P. Honor Flight.

The Rapid River Lions’ community projects include assisting in the construction of a fishing pier and walkway at the head of Little Bay de Noc, and purchasing the land and building the local park and pavilion.

The Lions also built their own clubhouse next to the Rapid River Post Office.

The Rapid River Lions are currently seeking individuals 18 years of age or older to join the club. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the clubhouse.

For any questions or more information on becoming a Lions Club member, call Steve Martin at 906-280-5822 or Jack Holzworth at 906-399-4061.