THE MARTINS Ferry Lions Club is still in its infancy. The civic-minded group, however, has made its presence felt in the community.

The Lions have staged many projects that have benefitted Ohio’s oldest settlement. Martins Ferry is a much more scenic town thanks to the Lions’ efforts.

The Lions’ productive work has spawned a new and younger organization, which will help carry out continued worthwhile work to aid the city.

A Leos Club was recently formed, composed of local students. Fourteen teens made up the first inductees into the club, and they will share the torch of civic commitment. The Lions are the sponsors for the new organization and will utilize the teens in various projects.

The Leos Club is wasting no time in following the pawprints of the Lions. The Leos have already planned a project targeting Breast Cancer Awareness. The teens are staging a dance and encouraging all attending to sport pink.

Youths from ages 12-18 who live in Martins Ferry are eligible to join, regardless of what school they attend.

We view this venture as one that will prove beneficial to the city as well as the teens themselves. They will learn life-lessons they may not otherwise experience. Club members will develop a greater sense of commitment, sharing, teamwork and success while providing service for the betterment of the city.

We commend the more than a dozen teens who have already become Leos and encourage more to follow their lead. It is refreshing to see today’s youth undertake such worthwhile roles.

Kudos are also in line for the Martins Ferry Lions.

The club has done many good deeds already, with the creation of the Leos as possibly its crowning achievement so far.