The May 12 meeting of the Stanley Lions Club had a packed agenda. Kicking off a busy summer will be a Lions Thrift Sale during the Citywide Thrift Sales on May 29-31. The sale will be taking place at 711 Madison Street. The Lions are accepting donations of items from members and non-members. Anyone wishing to donate items can contact Jerry Dirkes. The sales proceeds will go into the Lions Administrative Account, which funds costs related to being an affiliated club and attending state and district meetings.
In reports, Lion Jim Jones reported on the Lions sponsored bus trip to the Chanhassen Dinner Theater to see “Grease.” A survey indicated that attendees overwhelmingly had an enjoyable time and expressed a desire for a return trip next year. It was agreed that the Stanley Lions will again sponsor a return trip to see “Guys and Dolls,” on April 18, 2026. This year’s attendees will be given first chance to sign up. Lions Jones and his wife Sheryl were applauded for their work organizing the bus trip. Lion Jones also reported that the Lions have collected enough plastic for another bench. Lion Jerry Dirkes discussed having another Brat and Pork Chop Sale at IGA. The event was approved with a date still to be determined. In a brief report on the Smoke and Fire Event, held at Chapman Park on April 26, three Lions were able to help at the event which drew 26 teams from throughout the Midwest. The teams were very satisfied with the set-up and awards received. The event will be held again next year.
In other reports, Lion Norm Christianson reported on the Moon Park Apartments Brat and Bingo held on Monday. April 28. After hearing his report, it was decided to discontinue doing the Brat and Bingo at Moon Park apartments due to low participation. Lion Mary Jo Winkler reported that the Lions scholarships have been rated and the winners will be announced at the Scholarships Awards Program on Friday, May 23. An invitation to put on a brat fry on Friday, May 30, during Citywide Thrift Sales was turned down. The Lions agreed to further investigate their participation in funding the purchase of eyeglasses for needy individuals, with a report back at the next regular scheduled meeting in July.
The Lions Annual Steak Fry will take place at Fandry Park on Monday, June 9. Included in the annual gathering will be installation of new officers for 2025-2026. Special guests will be deceased member’s spouses, if they wish to attend.
Lion Jeff Koenig’s name was drawn for the attendance award but he was not present to collect his winnings.