Eagles dole out gaming proceeds

Published:  Wednesday, January 13, 2010 (2 months ago)
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Area schools received some of the gaming proceeds of the Delphos Eagles Aerie 471 Monday evening. They include, front from left, Tom Sakemiller, Fort Jennings athletic director; Brian Woods, Spencerville athletic director; and Mark Odenweller, Ottoville athletic director; and back, Eagles Trustee Cliff Wells; Dave Hoffman, Jefferson athletic director; Brenda Drerup, Jefferson Band Boosters; Don Huysman, St. John’s High School principal; and Eagles Trustee John Sheeter. Van Wert and Elida schools also received funds.For the Delphos Herald

The Delphos Eagles Aerie 417, as part of its commitment to local charities, distributes funds from gaming operations back to the community.
“The important role of a proud membership and patronage is the key to a successful business,” Eagles President Dan Pothast said. “The outstanding employees and volunteers that have assisted through the year are also a major contribution to our team.
“Our local officers, employees and management have worked hard through some tough economic times to continue to support our local community, schools and charities,” Pothast continued. “I can’t say enough thanks to the people who make this possible, including all who come and use the club.”
Trustees John Sheeter, Cliff Wells and Mike Metcalfe and Manager Cammy Miller, along with Pothast, Vice President Randy Murray, Treasurer Jim Mox, Past President Tom Schimmoller, Guards Michael Jackson and Mike Zerkel and Aerie Chaplain Eric Wallace have had to restructure the way business is done at the club.
“The honesty, integrity and commitment this group has shown over the past year makes my job easier,” Pothast said.
This year also saw a greater variety of recipients.
“We tried something a little different this year,” Pothast said. “We are still committed to the Delphos schools, fire, police and EMT but we also expanded our donations to other supportive communities. After we looked at the demographics of where our membership resides, we felt we needed to share in our commitments. So, communities such as Ottoville, Fort Jennings, Elida, Spencerville and Van Wert will also receive part of the donations. As officers, we have looked at this for some time and were happy to put this plan into action this year.”
The team at the Delphos Eagles has taken many steps to make the lodge a place of community pride and distinction, according to Posthast.
“This is a place to come for lunch, after the game or after work to meet with friends and family. This is also the meeting place for many area organizations and the banquet facilities are used for a personal gathering place,” he said. “We are here for the community because it’s the community we live in.”