Bothell will soon see the rebirth of a local Lions Club. A new Lions Club in Bothell is currently “under construction,” according to Janet Rinehart, the local Lions leader of new club development.

“The original Bothell club was chartered in March of 1937 and was shuttered in 2003. We have always felt that Bothell deserved another club,” she said.

During the existence of the original club, members contributed a considerable amount of money and hours to benefit the community, including land for Blyth Park (which the city later acquired from the Lions). The Bothell area has grown and so has the need for community service. Lions Clubs International has also grown. It is now the world’s largest service organization with over 1.3 million members in 206 countries.

Lions clubs are made up of men and women who identify needs within their community, and work together to fulfill those needs.

“We anticipate that many more service-minded people will choose to join this exciting new Bothell Lions Club. More hands mean more community service, and we are still accepting charter applications until we have the official charter presented by Lions International” said John Clinton, past president of the Mill Creek Lions Club.

New members joining now will have the distinction of being designated “Charter Members.” This is an honor only bestowed once in the life of a club.

The date of the Bothell Lions Club charter ceremony and the choice of regular meeting dates, location and club officers will be determined at future meetings. Anyone interested in learning more about Lions, or becoming a member of the new Bothell Lions Club, is welcome to call Art Ruben at (425) 387-9256.

The Lions’ motto is “WE SERVE.” Since 1917, Lions around the world have made a strong commitment to community service and youth.

According to Clinton, “One of the most recognized projects is the work we do for the visually impaired. In the greater Seattle area, we founded the Lions Eye Bank, now the world’s largest eye bank. Closer to home, the Lions have provided youth scholarships, supported parks and recreation and have worked with seniors and the handicapped. There are many other positive examples of service that local Lions Clubs have provided to their communities. Lions experience fun, fellowship and personal growth, while meeting the needs of others.”