WHEREAS, It is the tradition of the Washington State Senate to honor those who exemplify the American spirit by creating inspiration in the face of tragedy; and
     WHEREAS, On September 11, 2001, the United States of America was struck with tragedy as terrorists hijacked four flights, one was brought down over Pennsylvania, one crashed into the Pentagon, and two were deliberately flown into the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City; and
     WHEREAS, These acts of terrorism led to the deaths of thousands of lives including passengers on all four flights, workers, bystanders, and first responders who tragically suffered the same fate of those they were attempting to rescue; and
     WHEREAS, During the days of uncertainty following the events of September 11th, Mike Pherigo and his daughter Megan raised an American flag over State Highway 395 between Mesa and Eltopia to give a glimmer of hope to the community; and
     WHEREAS, Over the course of time the flag became not only a symbol of hope for many Columbian Basin residents but also a memorial to those who lost their lives on September 11th; and
     WHEREAS, Upon learning that the State Highway 395 flag, a symbol of hope, may be removed, the local community volunteered resources to keep this from happening; and
     WHEREAS, The local American Legion pledged to properly care for the site, Todd Blackman of the Franklin County Public Utility District arranged the crucial lighting, and with the help of others in the community, the State Highway 395 flag remained; and
     WHEREAS, The flag now has the essential arrangements to be cared for and was built to stand in perpetuity to honor those who perished that fateful day;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the members of the Washington State Senate honor the intent of the State Highway 395 flag, those who placed it, and those who continue to care for it; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to Mike Pherigo, Megan Pherigo, Keith Lawler, Todd Blackman, Secretary of Transportation, Douglas MacDonald, members of the American Legion, Post 34, and to the President of the Franklin County Public Utility District, Bill Gordon.