New Memorial Dedicated to Ernest W. McFarland to be Unveiled February 14th

PHOENIX - Feb. 3, 2015 - PRLog -- A new memorial to honor Ernest W. McFarland and the American Dream will be unveiled on Statehood Day, Saturday, February 14^th, from 2-3 pm, at Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza in Phoenix. The public is invited to the event which will include a ceremonial dedication to transfer the site to the State of Arizona and tours to explain the symbolism behind the site’s design. The Plaza is located at 1700 West Washington Street in Phoenix.

McFarland (D), who passed away in 1984, served as Governor, in the U.S. Senate, and as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court for the State of Arizona. As Senator, McFarland, or “Mac” as he was known, lobbied heavily to provide benefits to Veterans and is widely considered to be a “Father of the GI Bill.” The GI Bill continues to fund education and provide low interest, zero down home loans to millions of Veterans to this day.

This new memorial replaces a former structure that had fallen into disrepair. Designed by Phoenix architect, Don Ryden, the new site has been created using durable materials and features symbolic elements, including a centerpiece consisting of a 24 ft. tall spire that represents the “doorway to opportunity” for all Americans. Panels produced using “State of the Art” technology will also depict episodes and accomplishments from McFarland’s personal and political life. For more information, interested parties can call (602) 466-3333.

Ryden says, “This memorial was designed to not only honor Mac, but to also honor all Americans and anyone who has had to overcome obstacles in their lives.”  One of the unique design elements at the site is a pathway made from broken tiles and stone to symbolize the many hardships that McFarland had faced both during his years in office and in his personal life.

As Arizona Governor, McFarland helped guide Arizona to its post-war economic transition from agriculture to high tech industries and was instrumental in removing obstacles to the Central Arizona Project, creating sustainable water initiatives that remain today. He also served in the Arizona Supreme Court, rising to the position of Chief Justice, and wrote over 300 opinions during his term on the bench.

McFarland also embraced the new technology of television and founded Phoenix’s third station, KTVK, in 1955. It became one of the country’s most successful independent TV stations.

According to John D. Lewis, one of McFarland’s grandsons, “We hope this memorial will educate and inspire everyone who visits, and help bring Mac’s legacy and work ethic into the 21^st Century.  Despite his tremendous accomplishments, he simply considered himself a regular guy and a public servant.”

For more information on the Earnest W. McFarland and the American Dream Memorial, call (602) 466-3333.