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Local runners encouraged to chase this Lion

It’s not too often in Marquette one gets a chance to run with the Lions, but that’s what is happening Wednesday.

OK, these aren’t the furry kings of the jungle doing the running but they are another important kind of Lion — members of two local Lions Clubs being led by past District Governor William Michl from Fort Francis, Ontario, Canada.

The Marquette and Chocolay Lions Clubs are welcoming Michl as he makes his way around Lake Superior to bring attention to Lions Clubs International Foundation, which has as its mission: “To support the efforts of Lions clubs and partners in serving communities locally and globally, giving hope and impacting lives through humanitarian service projects and grants.”

Founded in 1968, the organization endeavors to sustain Lions’ humanitarian service goals throughout the world. According to its website, the Lions Clubs International Foundation has awarded more than 13,000 grants totaling more than $1 billion in the four key areas of sight, youth, disaster relief and other humanitarian efforts.

Michl is making his journey accompanied only by his bright red van and any supporters he gains along the way, who run with him for a brief bit of time.

That could be you on Wednesday.

At 9 a.m. that day, Michl will leave Lakenenland to run to the Marquette Commons where area Lions are hosting a meet and greet with members of the public. There will be refreshments with food and ice cream vendors nearby for lunch.

Runners are welcome and encouraged to join Michl from Lakenenland to the Commons, approximately 15 miles.

For a shorter segment, about 5 miles, runners can join in the run at the Marquette Welcome Center.

We hope on Wednesday it looks like that scene from the iconic film “Forest Gump” in which Forest is running across the country and before long, has scores along for the run.

Best wishes to Michl as he makes his way around beautiful Lake Superior. And thank you to all area Lions for doing so much good in our community.

For more information on Lions International, visit www.lcif.org

For information about joining in the run or becoming a member of a Lions Club, contact Joe Baczkowski, secretary of the Marquette Lions Club, at 906-360-7747.

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