From staff reports

REEDSVILLE — The Juniata Valley Council of Scouting America will partner with local sheriff’s offices to host flag-raising ceremonies in Mifflin County and Juniata County as part of a statewide celebration marking America’s 250th birthday.

The events are part of “Light to Unite/Flags Across the Commonwealth,” an initiative taking place in all 67 Pennsylvania counties. Scouts, law enforcement officers, volunteers and community members will gather at courthouses and other sites to raise flags and commemorate the nation’s milestone anniversary.

Locally, the Juniata County ceremony is scheduled for 4 p.m. April 24 at the county courthouse, followed by the Mifflin County event at 4 p.m. April 27 at the courthouse in Lewistown.

Ceremonies will also be held in Blair, Huntingdon and Centre counties.

Organizers said the program began Feb. 8 in Philadelphia and will conclude June 14 in Pittsburgh on Flag Day. The same ceremonial flags are being passed from county to county across the Commonwealth and will have already been raised in more than half of Pennsylvania’s counties before arriving in central Pennsylvania.

In addition to the flag-raising ceremonies, the events aim to highlight Scouting’s emphasis on leadership, character development and community service. Organizers said the initiative also serves as a reminder of the role young people play in their communities and in shaping the nation’s future.

Residents are encouraged to attend and observe the ceremonies, which will feature participation from Scouts, local sheriffs and community members.