Iola-Scandinavia plans electronic message board
By Jane Myhra
The Iola Lioness Club donated $2,500 toward the purchase of a new sign for the Iola-Scandinavia School District.
“Iola Lioness Club members were pleased to be able to contribute funds toward replacing the school road sign,” said Lioness President Jeannine Harbridge. “Iola Lioness and the I-S School District have a great relationship, and the district generously allows us to use their facilities for various Lioness service projects.”
The Iola Lioness Club partners with the school district to present the Lioness Easter Party, Lioness Christmas Parade and Santa visit, Iola Lioness and Lions “Stuff the Bus” and the Iola Lioness blood drives.
After the old sign was damaged in a storm, the school district received a $5,000 insurance settlement, according to District Administrator David Dyb. The school board decided it could not afford to replace the sign for an estimated cost of $20,000 to $25,000.
Several community organizations and businesses have since donated toward the purchase of an electronic messaging sign. With the Lioness donation, Dyb said a total of $17,000 has been raised.
The school district will soon have a new Daktronics sign installed by TLC Sign Company for a cost of $21,000.
“I would like to extend our gratitude to the Iola Lioness for their generous donation towards our school sign replacement project,” Dyb said. “Once our new sign has been installed, we will once again be able to help promote the wonderful programs they hold in the community.”
The Iola Lioness Club also presented $500 to I-S School Children of Families in Need (4k-12); $400 to I-S Community Fitness & Aquatic Center and I-S High School CPR mannequins; and $200 to I-S Elementary Growing Readers Literacy Program.
“Our club had an exceptional year, and one of the goals was to do some greater good for the community,” said Lioness Treasurer Pat Leer.