Annual meal to benefit local football programs in Copeland’s honor

CELINA-The annual John 16 Club Fish Fry will be held here Thursday beginning at 11 a.m. at the Celina Fire Hall.

The event is held in the late John Copeland’s honor and benefits local football programs.

“Since we started, all safety equipment reconditioning (helmets, shoulder pads, ect.) for the Clay County High School football team has been paid for with your help,” organizers said, addressing those who continue to support the cause. “For the last couple of years we were also able to refund the Celina K-8 Jr. High football team for their reconditioning cost.”

The meal features fish or pork loin, fries or hash brown casserole, slaw, hushpuppies or cornbread, dessert, and a drink all for a $10 donation.

Besides supporting the meal, the public is also encouraged to become a John 16 Club member.

A yearly $100 membership donation includes a high school football season pass purchased by the club.

“Last year we had well over 50 members,” club officials said. “The club dues are used to fund the meal, with the remainder donated back.

“Our goal would be for every football helmet in Clay County to be paid for by the John 16 Club with a #16 sticker placed on it to always remember John.”

For more information about becoming a member, visit Russell West at Citizens Bank of Celina, Tanner Rich at Rich’s Heating and Cooling, or Matt Copeland at Clay County Farm Supply.