Wadena Lions Club Annual Charity Barbecue Planned for July 25 – Wadena Pioneer Journal

WADENA – The Wadena Lions’ annual barbecue fundraiser allows people to enjoy delicious barbecue while supporting the community.

Wadena Lions Club members will be serving beef and pulled pork barbecue sandwiches prepared by Tyler Ehrmantraut of The BBQ Smokehouse of Wadena on Thursday, July 25, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Burlington Northern Park. The meal will include barbecued beef or pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw, potato salad, chips, a pickle and a drink, all for $12.

“All of the money raised goes to local schools, youth and community projects,” said event director Paul Hunke. Last year, the Lions sold over 1,100 meals and the proceeds went directly to the community.

“The need is huge and it’s difficult for a lot of these smaller organizations and programs,” Hunke said. “Along with the scholarships, the fundraiser really helps a lot of people in the community,” said Hunke, who has been a member of the Wadena Lions Club for 15 years.

The Wadena Lions Club has been active for 102 years and currently has about 50 members. Hunke said the Lions Club places a strong emphasis on volunteerism and service to the community.

Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club with over one million members and approximately 46,000 clubs in over 200 countries and territories around the world. Hunke said the Wadena Lions Club is committed to providing for the community and also promotes volunteerism.

The annual fundraiser is popular with locals thanks to the delicious barbecue and reasonable prices, Hunke said. People can enjoy a slow-cooked meal from The BBQ Smokehouse of Wadena in the park, or they can also order takeout. Tickets are available in advance from Wadena Lions Club members, and tickets are available at the fundraiser.

Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit various community projects, including the construction of a new shelter at Tapley Park and scholarships for Wadena-Deer Creek students.

Nicole Stracek was a freelance writer for more than 10 years before joining the Wadena Pioneer Journal. She covers everything from city council and county council meetings to breaking news. The local reporter can be reached at 218-631-2561 or [email protected].