We, the undersigned, petition Georgia State Senators and Representatives to propose and pass legislation in the state of Georgia declaring the original song Highway 98 written and performed by singer/songwriter Ricky Fitzpatrick as the Official Song of Highway 98, specifically the stretch of GA Highway 98 running from Commerce to Comer, GA, beginning immediately until perpetuity, and indicated by the erecting of indicative signs at the beginning and ending of the described portion of the highway.

The song has already become a local favorite, as well as won several industry awards and been adopted unofficially by many local residents as the song of Highway 98. Beyond Georgia, it has become one of the top ringtone downloads ever, as a Pick of the Day at Myxer.com and continues to occupy the top twenty as a digital download in the UK, Australia, Ireland and Japan. Its influence has far exceeded the borders of Madison and Jackson Counties.

Ricky Fitzpatrick and generations of much of his family are also from the area, lending even more cause to this petition. He is also known in the area for his musical contributions among which include his debut release and ensuing success of Pocataligo as well as writing other award-winning songs about the local area. Songs like Pocataligo and Jot Em Down have become synonymous with him, both locally and abroad. He is also known for another one of his songs America In Harmony being previously considered as the official song of Commerce, GA.

There is no precedent for such legislation as there has been no record discovered of the state of Georgia previously designating a song as the official song of any highway, state of otherwise. We are pleased and honored to be the first and to be a part of Georgia state history.

We believe that the song, having international as well as local acclaim, is deserving of the honor and truthfully representative of the highway, its landmarks and the surrounding citizens and paints them in a positive and compelling light to listeners of the song.