Members of the Northampton Exchange Club took a stroll down memory lane June 21 during a celebration marking the 90th anniversary of the organization.

Club President Lisa Veiszlemlein welcomed former club presidents and several Golden Deed recipients to the program, held at Northampton Banquet & Event Center.

Organized in 1927 and then chartered by the National Exchange Club, the borough-based group not only survived World War I, the Great Depression and World War II, but its legacy lives on. Present members and officers continue to add to its service to the community.

Mayor Thomas Reenock declared June 21 as Northampton Exchange Day in the borough and issued a proclamation heralding the club’s contribution. An aide to state Rep. Zach Mako, R-183rd, presented the club a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Paul Gieske, a longtime member and officer, cited the numerous community service projects - some dating back decades. They include well-known events like the Jack Frost Parade, the 69th edition of which is set for October; Book of Golden Deeds awards, given to 61 people; and Northampton Community Days, the 37th of which just concluded this month, as well as smaller, lesser-known craft fairs; supplying the flags on Main Street flown on national holidays; purchasing Christmas lights on Main Street; and providing park lights for Municipal Park.

The club also helped establish a post office, erected the band shell and pavilion B in the park, purchased and restored the portable band shell and is involved with prevention of child abuse and Adopt A Highway programs.

Significant contributions include the purchase of a treadmill and erection of 15 wellness stations at Canal Park.

Gieske announced at the program, “The club will donate a 30-foot-by-60-foot tent to the Borough of Northampton in July.”

The club has donated tens of thousands of dollars to worthy causes, such as the fire department, public library and others.

Just as important is the monthly Service to Youth recognition of a Northampton Area High School senior girl and boy, Give a Kid a Flag project and So Proudly We Hail and Freedom Shrine programs.

Dr. Rodger Berg, officer and past president, put a face on the club, naming a host of past presidents and adding commentary of their tenure. Those cited include John Regits, the Rev. Jerry Mraz, Elvin Hankee, Robert Kosc, Harold Heberling, Arthur Schisler, Robert Shoemaker, Albert Lerch, Paul Hall, Michael Faryna, Edwin J. Berg and others.

“We will continue serving the community,” club members agreed.