Laurel: To aiming high. The 2.36 million boxes of Girl Scout cookies sold each year averages out to about 150 boxes per scout. But Stella VanWhy, 6, of Arnold thought she could sell 2,020 boxes this year. Her leader suggested something more realistic, so the Daisy Scout came up with a new number: 4,040.
That might seem like simple obstinacy or a kid who doesn’t grasp the size of a task. Neither should be discounted.
The first goal of Girl Scouting is developing a strong sense of self. Stella’s got that covered. The second is to seek challenges and learn from setbacks. Whether she meets her goal or falls short, Stella’s attempt fulfills the mission.
Lance: To hitting low. There is nothing as pathetic as someone who takes advantage of tragedy. The members of the Tree of Life – Or L’Simcha Congregation in Squirrel Hill were treated to the latest incarnation of this lesson when a phishing scheme targeted them using the name of “Rabbi Hazzan Jeffrey Myers,” but not his real email, asking for a “favor.”
The attempt to prey on a group hit by the nation’s deadliest anti-Semitic attack is grotesque. The perpetrators should be ashamed, but they will probably just move on to the El Paso Walmart or Dayton survivors instead.
Laurel: To a father’s love. William Dolan of Mt. Pleasant Township is doing anything he can to find his son, William Jr., 39, a kidney. It’s as plain as the sign on his truck.
“Please give the gift of life! My son needs a new kidney. If you would like to help, please call 724-542-4149,” the tall, red, white and black placard reads.
And Dolan’s hope goes beyond his own son. That number goes to UPMC’s Transplant Services website.
“Even if it’s not a match for Bill, it could help somebody else,” he said.
On the watch: To long hours. Working hard and going above and beyond are good things. Overtime on the public dime might be iffy. It may take a breaking-in period for Westmoreland County to work out just how much overtime the recently taken-over bus service will require, and how much can be avoided, but the first week of service resulted in $12,500 in overtime.
Can that figure be cut back? Only time will tell.
