MassHighway orders patriotic displays removed from bridges

Methuen, MA, December 1, 2007-Masshighway placed a new ban on public displays from overpasses and has ordered all displays, banners and flags to be removed throughout the commonwealth by the end of this week.

Jim Wareing of Methuen was invited to attend an hour long meeting with Commissioner Luisa Paiewonsky and MassHighway’s management team last Monday to discuss the new ban. The commissioner claimed that public safety as the reason for the ban. MassHighway shared some alternative idea that they deem would be safer which could still show support for our troops.

Last October, MassHighway tried to ban these displays but by the end of the day MassHighway reversed their decision after public outcry claiming it was a ‘miscommunication’. “Although I disagree with their decision, my displays will be removed as it was made clear at the meeting that if I don’t remove the flags, MassHighway will remove them by the end of next week”.

One display of military and America flags was resurrected in May after the first ban and placed in honor of kidnapped soldiers Spec. Alex Jimenez and PFC Byron Fouty. This display on RT. 213 in Methuen will be taken down Monday afternoon and the American and POW/MIA flag will be presented to Andy Jimenez, father of Spec Alex Jimenez.

Jim Wareing is known for his overpass displays of military and American flags with yellow ribbons. He was recently praised by President Bush in a radio address to the nation last December for his support of the troops as the founding director of New England Caring for our Military, a non profit organization that sends care packages and telephone cards. Minutes from the meeting held this week are available as well as Jim’s written response to MassHighway upon request. Please contact Jim Wareing for more information at 978-835-7464 or vial e-mail at jim@bridges4troops.com.

Lawyers