Cemeteries adjust on Memorial Day

MOSES LAKE — The COVID-19 outbreak has altered plans for Memorial Day observances at some local cemeteries.

An observance is scheduled for 11 a.m. Monday at Pioneer Memorial Gardens, 14403 Road 2 NE, Moses Lake. Owner Susan Freeman said the community groups that would normally set up the Aisle of Flags and conduct ceremonies for veterans have been forced to cancel due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Freeman said that prompted her to come up with her own ceremony.

“Flags will be flying,” she said. “This will be put on by community volunteers.”

No information was available for possible Memorial Day ceremonies in Quincy or Ephrata.

While the Othello VFW post will not hold its normal Memorial Day observance, flags will be put up at the Bess Hampton Cemetery in Othello and the Adams Cemetery at the intersection of Sutton Road and Highway 17. Taps will be played at both cemeteries at 6 p.m. Monday.

— Cheryl Schweizer