Wednesday, September 26, 2001

Thank you for your front-page article on the proper way to fly the American flag. Over the past week many have looked for ways to show pride in our country and it has been heartening to see the symbol of freedom and justice flying from cars, trucks, buildings and displayed in store windows. It was inspiring to learn that the demand for the flag had cleared the stores of their supply. What is somewhat disappointing, however, is that such a horrible act of barbarian incivility had to be the cause of our openly and unashamedly embracing the basic symbols of our country.

It's been said that the job of being an American citizen is a 24/7 effort, not just for the present, but for a lifetime. It is not a task to be shirked - the responsibility and the work left to others. Many volunteers working with local civic organizations listed in the community activity sections of our newspapers man the humming production line in this task of citizenship.

Among these groups is one whose community service efforts include a strong emphasis on Americanism. The Exchange Club is a 90-year-old organization that has encouraged and sponsored Americanism through various club programs such as the Freedom Shrine, a permanently mounted collection of 28 of the most important and historic American documents such as the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence; GIVEAKIDAFLAGTOWAVE which distributes small American flags to youngsters at parades, fairs, picnics, school events or other community happenings; and Proudly We Hail which encourages all Americans to properly fly the flag as an ongoing, highly visible expression of that respect.

I encourage anyone who wants to help preserve our American heritage and to unite in service to the community to consider joining us in the Fayette Exchange Club. We have the spirit, the commitment, and even a few American flags. For information, feel free to call Jess or Alberta Lucas at 770-719-0879. God bless America.

Alberta M. Lucas

Fayetteville

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