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| Courtesy Photo
(click to enlarge) |
| Cub Scout Robbie McKenzie presents a flag to his grandmother, Luverne McKenzie, with fellow Scout Dylan Reese. In the background are den leaders Bruce McKenzie (left) and Abe Reese. |
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Robert Frank, City Editor
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Published: Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Boys honor Edmonds man's love of Scouting
By Kristi O'Harran Herald Columnist
Robert L. McKenzie was a man who loved his family, the U.S. Marine Corps and the Boy Scouts of America.
"He was a proud Marine who served in World War II in the 1st Marine Division in Okinawa and China," said his son, Bruce McKenzie. "He remained active in the 1st Marine Division Association up until his death."
Robert McKenzie held many things dear to his heart, and the Marines and Scouting were two of them.
In 1970, McKenzie became Scoutmaster of Troop 305 in Edmonds. He kept the position for 10 years, including four after his youngest son, Randy, left Scouting.
McKenzie helped 16 boys earn their Eagle Scout rank.
His last hike was Aug. 18, 2008, with Cub Scout Pack 2. McKenzie had cancer, but carried his original backpack from a 50-mile Scout hike he did in 1969. By the end, he was exhausted, but he was one tired and happy Marine who just couldn't stand to miss the opportunity to be there with the Scouts, Bruce McKenzie said.
His dad died Jan. 16.
Cub Scout Pack 2 of Snohomish recently had its Blue and Gold Dinner at Cathcart Elementary School in Snohomish. They honored Robert McKenzie, who lived in Edmonds, by presenting his widow, Luverne McKenzie, with an American flag that the boys folded. The 9- and 10-year-olds worked very hard to learn flag etiquette before the ceremony.
Robbie McKenzie handed the folded flag to his grandma to honor his grandpa's love of Scouting.
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Memorial Day isn't over.
Folks in Lynnwood prefer to stick with tradition, as the first Memorial Day was celebrated May 30, 1868.
A ceremony is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday -- that's May 30 -- at Lynnwood Veterans Park, 19300 44th Ave. W. in Lynnwood. It's presented by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1040 and American Legion Post 37.
There will be a piper, speakers, a rifle salute and a laying of wreaths.
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Geraniums lovingly arranged in a jelly jar won't cut the mustard Saturday.
Much more is expected at the Evergreen District Flower Show.
Show Judge Kay Swanson says creative flower arrangements will be done to express a title or theme. This year it's "Dancing With the Stars."
It's planned for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Martha Lake Covenant Church, 2721 164th St. SW in Lynnwood.
Swanson said artistic designs will include special requirements such as "Two Step" (using two containers), "Waltz With Me," "Hoedown," "Tango With the Stars," "Hip Hop Shine," "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" and "Chorus Line."
"We thought these titles made for a fun and interesting schedule, not only for the designers but also for the viewer," Swanson says.
At least no snippy gymnast will win this dancing show.
Kristi O'Harran: 425-339-3451, oharran@heraldnet.com.
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