Scouts retire flags in veteran ceremony

Boy Scout Troop 425 of Fall City turned out in the pouring rain last week to lay to rest seven American Flags. This event was the first Veterans Day American flag retirement ceremony performed by the troop. The ceremony was held at the fire bowl at the Boy Scout Shack.

Eighteen Scouts from Scout rank to Eagle were joined by family members, friends and Webelos from Pack 425 participated in the solemn ceremony. The troop regularly collects and retains the United States and state flags of individuals and Eastside Fire and Rescue. Readers included Stuart Odekirk, Mark Stetson, Caleb Brothers, Timothy Corrie and Bruce Corrie.

Regarding flag retirement, U.S. Federal Code states that “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.” Retiring an American flag requires a respectful, solemn, thought-provoking ceremony. All parts of the flag burn completely.

“We hope to be able to retire the rest of the collected American flags next spring in a ceremony that would involve the community,” said Scoutmaster Robert Odekirk.

Boy Scout Troop 425 is chartered by the Snoqualmie Valley Eagles and meets regularly in Fall City. For more information about the troop, visit their Web site at www.members.doubleknot.com/BSATroop425/ or contact committee chairwoman Sherri Zucker at (425) 880-4103.

Valley grad earns ROTC scholarship

Garrett Richard Morck, a 2007 graduate of Mount Si High School, has been awarded a three-year Naval ROTC scholarship at the University of Colorado at Boulder. Garrett is a midshipman sophmore studying naval science and psychology at the university. He was awarded the scholarship based on academic standing, leadership potential and physical conditioning. Upon graduation in 2011, Garrett will be commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy. He plans to attend flight school in Pensacola, Fla. Garrett is the son of Vicki and Rick Morck of North Bend.

Yoga instructor

holds meditation

The Yoga Barn of Issaquah and Fall City is holding a free weekly meditation for peace and healing for the nation, the earth, and the global community, 10 a.m. every Sunday at its Issaquah location, 660 N.W. Gilman Blvd. The event includes time for setting intentions and 30 minutes of silent meditation. Pre-register by calling (425) 427-0038 or visit www.yogabarn.com.