Saturday evening’s snowfall that dropped up to 10 inches didn’t stop lots of people in the Clearwater area from attending the American Legion Post 323 61st Annual Fish Fry Sunday morning.

 

“It’s been a little bit slow so far,” said Post Commander Ron Lashinski at about noon. “But I think once people get their roads and driveways cleaned out, they’ll be here.”

 

As it turned out, over 450 people attended the event, down from 750 last year and 550 the year before, but not a bad turnout considering the road conditions.

 

Those who attended  enjoyed the food and the opportunity to sit down with friends and family. It was the traditional all-you-can-eat breaded fish with beans, cole slaw, potato salad, dinner roll and beverage.

 

“Everyone is happy with the meal,” said Lashinski, who stood at the door greeting guests as they arrived and left.

 

There were also silent auction items, door prizes for everyone who bought a ticket, a meat raffle and the live auction that began at 4 p.m.

 

Some of the silent auction prizes included gift certificates from local businesses, a heated ice scraper, camouflage hats and backpacks, blender, crock pot, wirelesss camera backup system, cribbage boards, cooler and ceramic mug, wine basket and Super Bowl replica helmet. 

 

The live auction featured eight signed nature prints by well-known artist Jim Hansel, who is a friend of one of the Legion members. There was also a hunting bow with arrows, a framed Mickey Mantle photo, cordless drill, china cabinet, vintage bike, brass bed frame and a solid oak table.

 

All the auction prizes were donated by local businesses and individuals.

 

Sunday’s Platinum sponsor ($500 and up) was American Heritage Bank. Gold sponsors ($200 - $499) were T&R Meats, Clearwater Pet Clinic, Coborn’s, Tri-County Lumber, Clearwater Eye Clinic and Dairy Queen.

 

“The surrounding communities were very generous again,” said Lashinski.

 

Some of Sunday’s proceeds will go to organizations and causes where gambling money can’t be used.

 

But the fish fry is the only annual event that supports the Legion by adding to the general fund to pay operating costs.