American Pride Month In Lake: Flag Retirement Ceremony

    Lake County is wrapping up its first Pride in America Month, and on Tuesday morning hosted a special flag retirement ceremony. The event was held in front of the historic Lake County Courthouse and featured a short ceremony before dozens, if not hundreds of flags, were retired by burning.
    "We are the only county we know of," said Lake County Chairperson Sean Parks during remarks that noted Lake County's unique place in providing a month-long celebration of the nation. "One day just isn't enough," Parks said, referring to the Independence Day holiday on July 4.
    Over 100 members of the public and elected officials gathered for the event, which was overseen by the Lake County Historical Society. Lake County Property Appraiser Carey Baker led the program.
    “There are thousands of stories of this flag,” Baker said, retelling the story that led to the writing of the Star Spangled Banner, and reminding the gathered that a flag’s end of service is a chance for a new flag to rise in celebration of the country.
    Several speakers took to the podium during the event and several performances were included in the festivities. First Baptist Church of Umatilla Pastor Brooks Braswell led the opening invocation, Betsy Farner led the Pledge of Allegiance, Pam Jones of Congressman Daniel Webster’s office sang the Star Spangled Banner, Lake County Commissioner Josh Blake played Amazing Graze on the bagpipes, Arthur Becton spoke on the flag’s meaning, and AJ Rohe played Taps.
    After the program, the public was invited to come forward and participate in placing flags in fire pits.