Flag Project Flourishes
An example of the ‘Avenue of Flag’ in a local Iowa community (photo by R.D. Keep)
Oskaloosa Optimists are encouraged with the number of flags that will be waving along Oskaloosa streets this year. The club is in its final weeks of subscriptions and the club expects more than nine dozen flags to be placed beginning on Memorial Day.
The Optimist flag project places a 3-foot-by 5-foot cloth embroidered flag in the yard of subscribers on five holidays, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day and Veteran’s Day. Funds raised stay in the community to support various scholarship programs, fine arts sponsorships and other youth and community related activities.
The project has steadily grown over the past two years and will be over the 100 flag mark this year. The club is still taking subscriptions until May 15 to allow time for installation of the tubes.
As of this week the club said 17 new flags would be placed. Some businesses along the A Avenue and South Market corridors have signed onto the project.
“It is impressive to see several flags along one street,” said club secretary-treasurer R.D. Keep. “We have one cul-de-sac that has a flag in front of every home and 25 flags in a two block radius.
“It is encouraging the number of subscribers who have been with us since the beginning. More than four dozen have participated every year.”
Cost to participate is $40. If someone is interested in participating they may send their name, address and phone number to: Optimist Club of Oskaloosa, 201 High Avenue East, Box 115, Oskaloosa, IA 52577. Make checks payable to Optimist Club of Oskaloosa. For more information contact Keep at 641-673-0123.
“The flag is made and purchased here in Iowa,” said Keep. “Our club holds patriotism close to heart. We have used funds from this project to purchase flag banners that are placed in the classrooms at Oskaloosa Middle School.
“We are also working with the Freedom Rock committee to assist them in bringing this important piece of honor to Caldwell Park. Our service personnel deserve to be honored and the flag project is one small way we are able to serve them.”
