Many people know the story of Helen Keller through theater and film, but I learned about her in elementary school from a series of books called "Childhood of Famous Americans."

Deaf and blind at a very early age, Keller was taught to read and speak by a dedicated teacher, Anne Sullivan Macy.

Through writings and public speeches, Keller devoted her adult life to improving conditions and expanding opportunities for deaf and blind individuals.

In 1925, Keller challenged Lions Club members to become "Knights of the Blind."

Since then, the Lions have established the majority of eyebanks worldwide, funded innovative research on causes of blindness, and helped hundreds of thousands of visually impaired people to develop skills to lead productive lives.

Keller would be gratified to see how successful the Lions organization has been in accepting her challenge 89 years ago.

Through its many fundraisers, the Upper Lehigh Lions Club lives out Keller's challenge by contributing to the Center for Vision Loss, Leader Dog for the Blind, and Beacon Lodge, a camp for individuals with special needs, including visual impairment.

The club provides free eye exams, treatment and glasses for needy local individuals and collects eyeglasses and hearing aids for reuse.

Upper Lehigh Lions support Sight First, a project developed by Lions International in 1990 to address the increasing number of people with blindness around the world.

In addition to deafness and visual impairment, the club contributes to numerous other endeavors benefiting people in the community.

Larry Snyder, who leads the membership committee, extends an invitation to individuals to become a part of the organization.

"The Upper Lehigh Lions take great pride in supporting our community for 66 years," Snyder said. "We welcome you to join us and expand our service.

"You will meet new friends and be a member of the dedicated volunteers who make a difference in our community.

"Membership is open to men and women over the age of 18."

Call Larry at 610-767-2410 for information.

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The Schnecksville Fire Company will have a flea market in the pavilion from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 16.

Fire company volunteers will be preparing an all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast in the main hall 8 a.m.-1 p.m Feb. 23.

Menu features creamed dried beef, eggs, ham, sausage, pancakes, home fries, toast and beverages.