Illinois State Bank Joins Exchange Clubs In Honorable Disposal Of Flags

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

McHENRY, Ill. - Illinois State 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 Boy Scout troops to honorably dispose of the flags on Veteran's Day. This is the fifth year that Illinois State Bank's parent company, Wisconsin-based North Shore Bank, has held the collection, which has netted hundreds of worn flags for retirement.

Damaged and worn flags will be collected at the Illinois State Bank branches in McHenry (1689 Curran Road) and Lake in the Hills (1301 Pyott Road). The flags will be properly retired in Veteran's Day ceremonies on November 11.

"Illinois State Bank works hard to be an involved citizen in McHenry County, and we are honored to sponsor this flag collection program," said Marie Smith, vice president - district manager for Illinois State Bank. "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.illinoisstatebank.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," Smith said. "We encourage our customers and neighbors to bring their soiled and torn flags to one of our branches for proper disposal."

Illinois State Bank is a division of North Shore Bank, headquartered in Brookfield, WI, which was founded in 1923. North Shore Bank has assets of $1.9 billion and 42 branches throughout eastern Wisconsin and northeastern Illinois.