Jim Mains has watched games at Tanks Memorial Stadium since he was a boy. He also has seen the NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Now he wants the Hall of Fame to get a first-hand look at Tanks Memorial Stadium.

With Tanks Memorial Stadium to be dedicated at 3 p.m. Sunday, July 21, at an Ohio historical landmark, Mains took it upon himself to extend an invitation to the Hall of Fame.

They accepted.

John Bankert, the executive director of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, will be on hand for dedication ceremonies. Not only will he give a few remarks, but he will also introduce former Ironton Tanks star Glenn Presnell.

Presnell, who will be 97 on July 28, is the oldest living former NFL player.

"John Bankert is a class individual," said Mains who used to watch the Tanks play when he was a boy. "I know it's a long drive from Canton, but I asked him to attend and he graciously accepted."

Ohio will be celebrating its bicentennial in 2003. Members of the Ohio Historical Society and Bicentennial Committee will attend the ceremonies as well. Jim Walker/The Ironton Tribune