This is the time of year when we are all (apologies to George M. Cohan) Yankee Doodle Dandies, even those of us who are not born on the Fourth of July. There's plenty to celebrate about our democracy and plenty to do here in the South Hills this weekend.

In addition to the holiday-themed features we have in today's edition, here's a sampling of some other ways we mark the Fourth:

More than a thousand Elizabeth Forward elementary students will pay tribute to our country again this holiday as they place more than 2,000 American flags in the yards of West Mifflin residents today and tomorrow.

This is the fifth year for the program, coordinated by West Mifflin chiropractor Dr. Albert Graham.

A similar event is also set for neighboring Elizabeth Borough when members of that town's development corporation deliver 1,100 American flags to schools to be given to children grades K-5. Each flag comes with the brochure "Home Town Heroes," which features the legend of Jacob S. Friend.

Jacob was a boy who answered President Lincoln's call to arms during the Civil War. He returned a wounded veteran eager to complete his studies at the Elizabeth school. There he organized a militia and, as a component of their drills, is credited with originating the practice of raising the American flag above a public school that has since become a cherished national tradition.

Allegheny County Veterans' Affairs provided the flags for all the students.

There is still chance to get involved. Call Dr. Graham at 412-460-1166.

Kennywood, the famous historic park in West Mifflin, is hosting "Celebrate America!" all week as a salute to the red, white and blue.

In addition to acres of rides and food, look for mimes, jugglers, stilt walkers, magicians -- even Uncle Sam -- performing around the park each day this week. Guests can take time to relax in Pavilion 23 while enjoying some of the region's most talented bands.

Park mascot Kenny Kangaroo is Grand Marshal for a parade at 6 each night. At 9:30 p.m. Zambelli International puts on fireworks, weather permitting, of course.

For more, call 412-461-0500. For a compete schedule, visit www.kennywood.com.

Dozens of fireworks displays are planned all around the South Hills, but here is a particularly big one:

The Monongahela Chamber of Commerce is inviting residents "Down on the Mon" on Saturday. A festival at the Aquatorium begins at 6 p.m.; a fireworks extravaganza set to patriotic music will be held there at 9:45 p.m.