KENNEDY - The recent meeting of Kennedy Pride saw members looking forward to several summer events. Long-range plans were also discussed.
Co-President Linda Bish informed the group that she had heard from Co-President Kelly Snow regarding the Veterans' Memorial to be placed in Hallquist Park.
Representatives from Jensen-Haglund said they should be able to have the memorial in place before the Flag Retirement Ceremony on June 15.
Members were pleased with this. A dedication will be held that night following the Flag Retirement. Several veterans' groups want to participate.
A balloon release will be held to honor veterans. Anyone can purchase a balloon for $5 and have the name of the honored person on it.
A picnic will follow the ceremony with people bringing dishes to pass. State Senator Cathy Young will be in session, so she will be represented by Richard Kimball.
The Victorian Tea was considered a big success. Eunice Speta reported that more funds were made this year. Roland and Doris Swanson were the "King and Queen" of Poland. Attendees enjoyed the wonderful food, music, and other entertainment.
Group members again expressed thanks to the ladies of the Grange for the tea cookies, and Donna Eskeli as emcee. Donna Dort was an excellent piano accompanist.
Everyone agreed to keep the Victorian Tea as a fundraiser.
The town-wide clean-up day was well done. About 50 yards of trash was collected, as well as metal for recycling.
Group members were pleased that less trash seems to be left along the main roads since the clean-up days were started.
Ms. Bish stated that she had contacted local musician Ken Mesel. He has agreed to perform with his band, Country Road, in Hallquist Park from 5 to 7 p.m., Saturday, July 9. Other performers will also be contacted about performing in the park this summer.
Members of Kennedy Pride voted to share the cost of a porta-john for Hallquist Park during the summer.
Clarence Robbins then said that he and his wife Charlene would cover the portion of the cost for Kennedy Pride.
They were instrumental in getting the walking path put in, and use the path and park a lot. Those attending thanked the Robbins' for their generosity.
Shirley Leyman said she has the Kennedy Pride banner to carry in the Memorial Day parade. Several members plan to walk in the parade.
Members will hold a special meeting at 6:30 p.m.Wednesday, June 8, in Hallquist Park to finalize plans for the Flag Retirement Ceremony and Veterans' Memorial Dedication. The memorial had been a project very close to the hearts of many in the community.