The Stanley Lions held their monthly meeting on Monday, August 8, at the Stanley Community Center. The gathering also served as an appreciation dinner for non-Lions who helped at the recently held Watermelon Festival, assist at other times of the year, or support the Lions throughout the year. After the Pledge of Allegiance, the meeting was called to order by Lion President Dave Jankoski who welcomed everyone and thanked Lions Dan Plombon, Norm Christianson and Jerry Dirkes who prepared the meal. Jankoski then called on Lion Ken Schmidt for a meal prayer.

After the dinner, President Jankoski began the meeting by thanking all those who helped make the Watermelon Festival the outstanding success it was. He also noted the great support from the community, both by those attending the Watermelon Festival and all who purchased rawe tickets.

Lion Jerry Dirkes, Treasurer, provided a financial report on the Watermelon Festival. He concluded his report by noting that it was another record year for the annual fundraiser. Treasurer Dirkes also handed out his annual report that summarizes the past Lions year finances. Dirkes was applauded for his com prehensive report and outstanding job as treasurer.

In new business, a number of changes/additions to the Watermelon Festival were mentioned and will be considered for possible incorporation into the planning for the 2023 fundraiser.

If anyone has ideas/suggestions to share on the Watermelon Festival they can be given to any Lion. The Lions will be making contact with the local school district to obtain a date for the September Eye Screenings. A request for a donation, towards a scoreboard project from Cadette Girl Scout Troop 3241 was discussed. Five local young ladies are working towards their Silver Award, the second highest honor in Girl Scouts, and their goal is to install two scoreboards at the Fandry Park ballfields. The Lions will be supporting the project with a donation, when they receive word what remains to be raised.

Arrangements were finalized for the forthcoming Lions Cheese Curd Sales held during the Citywide Thrift Sales on Thursday, August 11 and Friday, August 12. Lion Jones provided the work schedule and noted his need for one or two more workers.

It was announced that the next Lions meeting will be held at Debbie’s on Broadway, on Monday, September 12, Lion Wayne Hove’s name was drawn for the attendance jack pot, but he was not present. Next month, the attendance award will be $10 if the winner is present.

Ollie Krueger enjoys a piece of watermelon at the Watermelon Festival. Submitted photo.