We appreciate Steve Schulwtiz’s article on the great service clubs in Alpena. We feel it’s important to let the community know about the Exchange Club of Alpena and the work of our members.

The Exchange Club of Alpena was established Sept. 11, 1925. We currently have 48 members. Our mission is to support Americanism, Community Service and Youth Programs. Our national project is the prevention of child abuse.

In Alpena we support the Child Advocacy Center by making blankets for abused children and have donated thousands of dollars supporting youth activities.

Some of the services we provide each year include: distributing scholarships, recognizing local law enforcement agencies, handing out thousands of flags at the 4th of July parade, serving Tony Burgers at Brown Trout, providing road clean up, wrapping gifts for the Vietnam Vets, sponsoring various youth sports teams, and ringing the bell for the Salvation Army. We also built and continue to maintain the pavilion at Manning Hill and placed Freedom Shrines in area schools to educate our students on patriotism. These are just a few of the many services we provide for our community.

For over 94 years the Exchange Club of Alpena has proudly served our community. Like many of the other service clubs Steve mentioned we each have a passion for the community where we live and work.

If anyone is interested in the club, please contact me as Exchange Club president at (989) 356-4434.

TONY SUSZEK,

Alpena