By Kathryn Rice
Melody Blair, owner of Minnie Lane, was recently recognized as the “Betsy Ross” of Maryville for her work in repairing and maintaining the flags at Freedom Rock® plaza in Franklin Park.
Bob Westfall, a member of the Maryville Host Lions Club, has been bringing the flags in need of repair to Blair since the plaza was completed in 2017. The five Lions Clubs in Nodaway County, Maryville Pride, Maryville Host, Graham Lions, Pickering Lions and Hopkins Lions, completed the project in celebration of the 100th anniversary of Lions Clubs International.
Freedom Rock Plaza features the American flag and flags of all military services, and pavers are placed around the rock to commemorate the military service of Nodaway County citizens.
“I love being the Betsy Ross of Maryville,” Blair said.
She has been repairing flags since 2008, when she worked at the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office with Deputy Don Saunders, the “king of flag etiquette.” Saunders instructed her on what repairs could be made and how much the flag could be shortened.
How often she can repair a flag depends on how quickly she receives it and how badly the flag is damaged.
The Lions donated an engraved paving stone to Blair as a memento of her expertise in flag repair, which was placed on the field. Westfall, who worked with Blair’s daughter, Dina Green, managed to make the presentation a surprise for Blair.
“I feel very honored and surprised,” Blair said. “I am grateful to Bob and the Lions for thinking of me. I admire all the work the Lions do behind the scenes for the community.”
Blair was also grateful for the help of Sue Hoskey, who supported Blair during her shoulder injury that prevented her from working on the large flags. Hoskey also works with Blair on other tailoring projects.
