Exchange Club makes donations

Three south county agencies benefited Thursday from funds raised by Exchange Club of Redding from Air Show 2009, with nearly $60,000 going to 48 local groups at an awards luncheon at Win-River Casino. Redding City Manager Kurt Starman handed out envelopes to the awardees, including Soroptimist International of Anderson-Cottonwood, Anderson Moose Lodge #509, and the Northern California Veterans Cemetery.

Accepting for Soroptimist International of Anderson-Cottonwood, Soroptimist Barbara Robinson awards scholarships to South County high school students and donates to various organizations including Women's Refuge and Friends of the Anderson Library.

Accepting for Anderson Moose Lodge, Prelate Ken Mapstead said the group volunteers at events such as the air show, Return of the Salmon festivals, and also donates to area battered women's shelters.

Accepting for the Northern California Veterans Cemetery, Michael Wiley said the funds may go to the cemetery's general fund or for veterans assistance.

"The Exchange Club members are thrilled to be able to make the contributions," said Bill Wagner, air show chairman and emcee of the awards luncheon. "The show is a tremendous amount of work, but thanks to great community support, the club is able to donate the money and help make a difference. The goal since day one has been to enlist groups to help with the show and then donate back to them."