Manson Kiwanis closes after 72 years
by Dennis Rahm, LCN file photos from previous pancake breakfast
Declining membership has led to the demise of the Manson Kiwanis Club which has served the community since being chartered in February of 1948. Even though the club held its last meeting in mid-October, the organization continues to give back to the Manson community.
Long time member and former President Karen Lesmeister expressed sadness that the Manson chapter has closed after 72 years of operation. She and her husband Larry both served as club president and said Kiwanis “is part of what we do”. She said the local organization at one time had more than 60 members, but at their last meeting there were only six in attendance. Kiwanis International stipulates clubs must have a minimum of 25 members.
On a positive note, Lesmeister said the club was pleased to make good use of the remaining funds raised by Kiwanis. Approximately $30-thousand has been earmarked to the Manson School District for scholarships. The club has annually funded scholarships for a number of years.
As one of its last orders of business, the organization also gifted $1-thousand to Lake Chelan Swim which offers free swim lessons at Manson Bay Park. The program has been operated by by Viki Downey since 1998. Downey, who was named the Kiwanis Person of the Year in 2019, said she is thankful for the donation and notes the important role Kiwanis has played in supporting so many community programs.
The Manson Kiwanis members have participated in many projects over the years and may be best known for hosting their annual Pancake breakfast during Apple Blossom Festival. Kiwanis clubs continue to operate Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Cashmere, Brewster, Winthrop and Okanogan.
