April 17, 2007

Flags ordered at half-staff on state office buildings

LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today issued the following statement on the tragedy at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in Blacksburg, Virginia:

"On behalf of the state of Michigan, I extend my deepest sympathy to everyone affected by this incomprehensible act of violence.  I urge all Michiganians to keep these victims and their families in their thoughts, hearts and prayers.  There is no place in our schools or in society for this kind of viciousness; schools and universities should be a safe haven for our children.  My thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims of this horrific tragedy."

Granholm is directing that the United States flags be flown at half-staff at all state buildings and facilities throughout the state of Michigan until sunset April 22, 2007.

Granholm's directive is in accordance with President Bush's proclamation directing flags to be flown at half-staff on federal office buildings throughout the United States.

Granholm reminded citizens that Michigan State Police, in cooperation with county and local law enforcement and emergency management coordinators, consistently work with public colleges and universities to develop, evaluate, and update emergency plans.

"Any location where large numbers of people gather has the potential to be a homeland security concern or terrorist target," Granholm said.  "This is why every college and university in Michigan is required to have emergency plans in place."

For more on what Michigan is doing to prepare citizens for unexpected emergency situations visit: www.michigan.gov/michiganprepares.

When flown at half-staff, the United States flag should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the position one-half the distance between the top and bottom of the staff.  The flag should again be raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day.  It is the universal custom to display the flag from sunrise to sunset.  However, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.

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