North Royalton City Schools made the first home football game on August 24 at North Royalton Serpentini Chevrolet Stadium a little more meaningful by holding a flag dedication before kickoff. The North Royalton Lions Club donated a 10 ft. by 15 ft. flag for the stadium in memory of Bob Serpentini, Sr. who served with the Lions Club for 45 years. He passed away this past June.
After the announcer named those involved in the dedication, the American flag was raised as well as the Ohio and U.S. Marine flag. U.S. Marines and Lions Club members took part in the flag raising, and Bob Serpentini, Sr.’s wife, son and daughter were there along with several current Lions Club members. Following the flag raising was the playing of the national anthem by the North Royalton High School Marching Band.
The Lions Club plans to have a special flag raising ceremony at each of the home football games. Each home game will honor one of the five branches of the military. Mark Keider and Ray DeAnna, two former U.S. Marines and Lions Club members, attended the home opener to raise the U.S. Marine flag. Two veterans or active members of each branch of service honored that week will attend the game to raise their flag before kickoff. The remaining North Royalton High School home football schedule is as follows:
Friday, Sept. 21, North Royalton vs. Twinsburg.
Friday, Oct. 12, North Royalton vs. Brecksville.
The Lions Club International is the largest service organization in the world. They dedicate themselves to the civic, cultural and social welfare of the community around them. While their most significant service is for those who are visually impaired, the North Royalton chapter has built a pavilion at Memorial Park and a gazebo on the city square. They also support North Royalton High School students by providing numerous scholarships.