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Recognizing a 47-Year Relationship

This photo commemorates a very special time 47 years ago when two lifelong representatives-one from the Exchange Club of Madison, and one from the First Congregational Church of Madison-were there to remember the beginning of that important union for their organizations, the town, and all of the citizenry in Madison. Since a large number of the Exchange Club were also members of the Congregational Church, the relationship grew from the Exchange Club's initial request to use the wonderful green for its annual chicken barbecue.

In celebration of the union that grew between the two organizations serving the community of Madison over the past 45 to 50 years, the Madison Exchange Club recently presented its highest award, The Book of Golden Deeds, to the First Congregational Church of Madison. Standing on the front steps of the church and receiving the award are Wally Stone, sexton and 47-year member of the church, and Charlie Reese, head of the Church Council. Presenting the Exchange Club's award is Bill Lawlor (center), a 47-year member of the Madison Exchange Club.

If the Exchange Club had not requested permission many years ago to use the Green for their special event, it's possible that today we might not have any antique shows, concerts, or any other events on the Green.