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Commending and recognizing the students of Gilmer High School; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, in the wake of the terrorist attacks on New York City, students at Gilmer High School sent a banner decorated with pictures and notes of support to the students at PS 140 in New York City; and

WHEREAS, the students at Gilmer High School also collected and raised money for the New York City relief fund and sent it to PS 140 to let the students there decide where the money might best be used; and

WHEREAS, this show of support and caring motivated the students at PS 140 to also raise funds for the relief effort by making and selling lapel pins; and

WHEREAS, the students at PS 140 wanted to express their gratitude to the students at Gilmer High School for their support and concern in the aftermath of September 11, 2001; and

WHEREAS, the students at PS 140 arranged for the flag which flew at the fire station of NYFD Battalion 7 on the morning of September 11, 2001, to be sent to the students at Gilmer High School; and

WHEREAS, this impressive show of goodwill and compassion on the parts of both schools led to a celebration on January 11, 2002, which will forever be remembered as Gilmer County-New York City Unity Day; and

WHEREAS, in attendance at the celebration were two members of the NYFD Battalion 7 that lost five firefighters in the collapse of the World Trade Center towers and a student and the vice president of PS 140; and

WHEREAS, this joining of the hearts of two communities reflects the spirit that makes this country great and is another confirmation that, though separated by distance, we are all part of the same American family, united in purpose, resolve, and concern.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body recognize and commend the students of Gilmer High School for their compassion and sacrifice that they displayed toward the students of PS 140 and New York City in the days after September 11, 2001.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to Gilmer High School.