Marie Butler-Knight and Don Yoder serve fish and chicken tenders in the take-out line. (Photo by Sarah Wright)

Finding a parking spot at the Syracuse Community Center proved challenging as droves of people turned out for the Syracuse Lions Club’s annual Jonah Fish Fry and Stan Fox Memorial Silent Auction, which was held from 5-8 p.m. today, July 3.

Judy Jarrett, who chaired this year’s event, said, “It’s been busy. It’s the biggest crowd we’ve had in years. I think Monday night made a difference.”

From left, Kai and Rhonin Miller handle condiments for the Jonah Fish Fry. (Photo by Sarah Wright)

With Fourth of July activities falling around Monday, Jarrett said, “There was nothing else going on today. It was the perfect timing for it.”

Another draw this year was the addition of chicken tenders to the menu. Jarrett noted the chicken tenders have been a huge hit, particularly for families whose children might not be fans of fish. The homemade pies by Judy Norris were also a crowd-pleaser, with Jarrett stating at around 6 p.m. that there were no whole pies left, just slices.

Cub Scouts, 4-Hers, Girl Scouts and family members once again pitched in to help the Syracuse Lions hold the event, doing everything from manning the dessert table to ensuring drinks were dispensed.

With the Fourth of July falling on a Wednesday next year and this year’s success, Jarrett noted that the club is considering holding the annual Jonah Fish Fry and Stan Fox Memorial Silent Auction on Monday in the future. She said, “We’re very pleased with what we’re seeing.”