North Shore Bank Joins Exchange Clubs In Honorable Disposal Of Flags

Local bank branches to serve as worn American flag collection sites through Oct. 31

BROOKFIELD, Wis. -- North Shore Bank today announced it will collect worn and tattered flags from Sept. 11 through Oct. 31, and work with the Exchange Clubs, the American Legion and local Boy Scout troops to honorably dispose of the flags on Veteran's Day. This is the fifth year North Shore Bank has held the collection, which has netted hundreds of worn flags for retirement.

Damaged and worn flags will be collected at all North Shore Bank offices throughout eastern Wisconsin. The flags will be properly retired in Veteran's Day ceremonies on November 11.

"North Shore Bank works hard to be part of the communities in which we operate, and we are honored to sponsor this flag collection program for the fifth year in a row," said Gary Messing, Vice President - Branch Administration. "Many people don't know how to properly dispose of tattered or torn flags, and working with the Exchange Clubs, the American Legion and the Scouts gives us the opportunity to help local residents do so in a responsible, respectful and patriotic manner."

The mission of the Exchange Clubs is to educate the public about and promote proper use of the American flag. Flying a torn or soiled flag is disrespectful and etiquette calls for flags to be disposed of properly, with reverence and ceremony. Information on appropriate flag etiquette is available online at www.northshorebank.com.

"Our American flag is known around the globe as a symbol of courage, strength and unity, and there is not a more appropriate symbol of support for our country," said David Potter, North Shore Bank's Senior Vice President and Exchange Club member. "We encourage our customers and neighbors to bring their soiled and torn flags to one of our branches for proper disposal."

North Shore Bank, headquartered in Brookfield, was founded in 1923. It has assets of $1.9 billion and 42 offices throughout eastern Wisconsin and northeastern Illinois. Current branch locations are in metro Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha, Appleton, Menasha, the Green Bay area, Burlington, Union Grove, Two Rivers and Door County, and the bank will open a new office in Sussex this fall. North Shore Bank also has a mortgage production office in Tampa, Fla.