Councilman, State Rep's Father Injured When Sign Blows Over at Football Game

Developing story. Updated Sept. 14, 12:20 p.m. 

A large sign toppled over at Friday night's football game resulting two members of the American Legion Post 211 being taken for treatment, including Avon Lake Councilman Larry Meiners and Jake Lundy, the father of State Representative Matt Lundy. 

Meiners was struck in the head. Lundy's leg was broken during pre-game ceremonies at Avon Lake Memorial Stadium. 

Meiners remains at the Cleveland Clinic's Fairview Hospital under observation according to a media representative at the Cleveland Clinic. 

The 8x10 foot band sign was blown over by wind prior to the Avon Lake – North Canton football game at approximately 7 p.m. on Sept. 13.

Sources said Meiners and Lundy, who are members of Avon Lake American Legion Post 211, were readying to raise the United States flag as part of the game’s ceremonies. Lundy is the Post chaplain.

Lundy, who along with Meiners was treated at the Cleveland Clinic, said a large black sign was blown over. 

"I broke my leg, the tibia," Lundy said Saturday morning from his house, where he is resting. "I have to go back to the doctor on Monday; they may have to do surgery." 

Lundy said his wife was taking care of him.

"She's doing everything for me," he said. 

Post Commander Wayne Sherwin said the Legionnaires were readying to raise the flag and in were in a close circle around the flagpole when the large black "Birdland" sign the band hit some of the Legionnaires.

"The wind just blew it over," Sherwin said. "I told my guys, 'This is a Friday the 13th' we're not going to forget.'" 

Avon Lake firefighter/paramedic Dana Szymanowski said just following the incident Meiners said he was fine but was taken to the Clinic as a precaution. He said Meiners later felt lightheaded and was admitted to Fairview Hospital.

Szymanowski said Meiners' injuries on Friday night were not deemed serious at the time.

Lundy said when he was discharged, Meiners was conscious and talking but did not know his status following that. 

Legionnaire Bob Quinlan said other members of the Post received minor injuries that didn't require immediate medical attention, including cuts and bruises. 

"I got hit as I was right next to the sign and tried to stop it, but that was impossible," Quinlan said. "When I got home and took off my shirt I had a good bruise on my arm."

Avon Lake won the game 19-7.