The Stanley Lions held their monthly meeting on Monday, August 11, at the Stanley Community Center. Noteworthy was the report by the 2030 Committee, that is focused on the future of the Stanley Lions Club. Like many organizations, the Lions have not been attracting a younger membership that is important in order to maintain a vibrant Community Service oriented organization. During the meeting, it was revealed that without the Lions Club the community will have an average of $15,000 less in community donations each year and the Lions leadership and support of other community endeavors will be gone. The committee is continuing to look at the the total operation of the organization and what changes may be necessary to attract a younger membership.
As part of his Treasurer’s Report, Lion Jerry Dirkes presented his comprehensive annual report covering the Lions Year, July 1, 2024 to June 31, 2025. He also presented a report on the 2025 Watermelon Festival, which indicated net income was down from 2024, which was partly blamed on the hot and humid day. The 5K Race and Car Show drew more entries and the Flea Market had about the same number of vendors as last year. The Baseball Tournament and Kids Bouncy House were noted to be good additions to the overall event.
In other old business, Lions Dirkes announced that the Lions Brat Sale, that had been scheduled for Friday, August 8, was canceled due to the double booking the same day as the IGA Customer Appreciation Day, during which they gave away free hot dogs. Various means of getting information on Diabetes Awareness were discussed and put forth.
In new business, ideas and suggestions for changes in the Watermelon Festival were discussed. The Baseball Tournament will return again next year and could even be expanded and it was agreed to continue with the Bouncy House for kids. The Lions will be conducting their Annual Vision Screening at the Stanley-Boyd Elementary School in October, with the dates dependent on the availability of the testing machine(s). The Lions will again be sponsoring a Concertina Event at the Stanley Community Building on Sunday, September 21, with proceeds being donated to the new library fund.
Guests for the evening were non-Lions who helped at the recently held Watermelon Festival. It was noted that Lion Jerry and Mary Dirkes prepared the meal that was enjoyed by the attendees. Lion Jeff Koenig was the winner of the attendance drawing but was not present to claim his winnings. The next Lions meeting will be held at Debbie’s on Broadway, on Monday, September 8.