Eagle Scout installs flag retirement box
Zachary Horvath of Boy Scout Troop 338 constructed and installed a flag retirement box at Jefferson Memorial Cemetery, Funeral Home, Crematory & Arboretum as part of his Eagle Scout Project. The initiative provides a meaningful way for the community to retire worn or damaged U.S. flags.
The box is located outside of the cemetery office where residents can drop off their flags for proper retirement. Once the box is filled, Jefferson Memorial will hold a flag retirement ceremony, honoring the flags and their significance to our nation.
According to the U.S. Flag Code, “the flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.” Community members are encouraged to utilize the box to retire flags that show signs of wear, such as:
• Fraying or unraveling;
• Fading of colors;
• Tears or holes;
• Stains or discoloration.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Zachary Horvath for his dedication and hard work in creating this valuable resource for our community,” said vice president Dagny V. Neel Fitzpatrick. “His initiative not only demonstrates the spirit of scouting but also fosters a sense of respect and patriotism within our community.”
Jefferson Hills Library launches drug prevention initiative
The Jefferson Hills Public Library has a new resource area dedicated to drug use and prevention.
“Every week, an average of 22 adolescents ages 14-18 die in the U.S. from drug overdoses, primarily due to fentanyl-laced prescription pills,” said Jane Milner, program coordinator. “Many of these young people are taking a pill for the first time.”
Located in the corridor outside the library doors on the second floor of the Jefferson Hills Municipal Center, the resource area includes pamphlets and flyers covering drug topics. The materials offer guidance on how to discuss the dangers of drug use with children, recognize signs of drug use in teens and understand the risks associated with even a single pill.
Dr. Elizabeth Zona, a double board-certified physician in anesthesiology and addiction medicine from Moon Township, collaborated with Milner on material recommendations for the resource area. She also spoke at a library program, emphasizing the dangers of fentanyl use. “Seven out of every 10 fake fentanyl pills bought on the street contain a potentially lethal dose,” she said. “It’s vital that we educate our communities — especially our youth — about these dangers. There is still far too little education in key spaces like schools and libraries, which are essential contact points for families.”
Thanksgiving meals
Pleasant Hills Lions Club is looking for homebound, disabled or seniors to receive free delivery of Thanksgiving Day meals. Availability is limited, so people are encouraged to reserve their meals early. For more information or to reserve, call Paula at 412-427-8628.
South Hills Women’s Club
The South Hills Women’s Club will meet on Nov. 11 at Vanadium Woods Lobby, 50 Vanadium Road, Bridgeville, at 8 p.m. Following a brief meeting, guest speaker Christopher Whitlatch will speak on his book, “Notorious Pittsburgh,” and some of his favorite criminal stories from Pittsburgh’s seedier past.
Refreshments and dessert will be served. If interested in attending, please contact Diane at 412-965-4714 or Judy at 412-414-1232 with questions. New members and guests are welcome to attend.”