West Bend, WI – Maxim Zernia, a determined high school junior from West Bend, Wi, has been on a mission to create a City flag for his community. His journey began in the spring of 2023, inspired by Port Washington’s public flag contest. Despite facing some initial setbacks, Zernia remained committed to his goal.
Zernia spent the summer of 2023 canvassing the neighborhood, collecting signatures from residents who supported the idea of a West Bend flag. “Not everyone liked the initial design,” said Zernia.
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He took the feedback to heart and made some adjustments.
The idea of a City flag is not unique to West Bend, Wi. It was October 2022 when Port Washington middle schooler Ben Laurin wrote the mayor, Ted Neitzke, about his idea to adopt a City flag. Eventually, Laurin’s design, featuring the City’s historic lighthouse on a background of a rising yellow sun and the blue waters of Lake Michigan, became the new City flag.
-flagThat flag, and other memorabilia, are now for sale in Port Washington, WI.
Zernia is optimistic his persistence will pay off as he is prepared to present his flag design for discussion at Monday night’s, February 19, 2024, council meeting.
The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers at City Hall, 1115 S. Main Street. The meeting is open to the public.
“No matter the outcome, I hope West Bend would embrace the idea of having its own flag,” said Zernia.
