Avenue of Flags 2026 Kick-off and Optimist March Madness Member Steak "Fry"

March 16, 2026

This Fellowship event tied an event from the past (celebrating our 50th Anniversary) with a Steak "Fry" (actually grilled steaks) and a presentation by JHS Baseball legendary coach Terry Gobert. We also kicked off our NCAA pool which used to be a fund raiser, but this time we just did it for fun. This was the 3rd year of our Avenue of Flags Kick-off Celebration which we have held at the Jaycee Clubhouse. Tieing these 3 elements together made for a very enjoyable and rewarding time for ALL in attendance. We actually had more people than the 61 who RSVP'd, so unfortunately ran out of Steaks and Potatoes. However, all had plenty to satisfy them with guest bringing a bountiful array of deserts. Coach Gobert was amazing with his lively and funny stories about life as a JHS baseball coach. This brought back many fond memories of the past when he entertained and informed us every year at the Steak Fry. Ann Shappard did a wonderful job of resurrecting the NCAA March Madness Pool (for the fun of it). Kent Reyling and Mike Shappard did an update on the Avenue of Flags program for 2026. Out goal this year (on the 250th Anniversary of our Country) is to get flags on the main passageways through Jasper. We are looking for new members to help with flag distribution and expansion.

Jessie Dwyer and Suzanna Linderman provide all of the decorations for the evening. Justin Dwyer assisted with set-up and tear down. Kurt Mehringer and Mike Shappard did the grilling. Amelia Schnell presented the proposal for our Optimist Float for the 2026 Strassenfest Parade. Special recognition was given to Mary Reyling who "retired" as administrator for AOF. All Neighborood Team Captains and crews were recognized for their special contribution to the Club.