AAUW to present program on flags
HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE — The Hot Springs/Hot Springs Village branch of AAUW will host a program on historic flags by Villager
Dennis Zymboly on Columbus Day, Oct. 14, from 4-6 p.m., at the Unitarian Universalist Village Church.
Zymboly started collecting reproductions of early U.S. flags in 1971, with the purchase of a “Betsy Ross” 13-star flag to fly in front of his home in suburban Chicago. After moving to Hot Springs Village in 2002 and displaying that flag in his front yard, another Villager noted Zymboly’s interest in flags and invited him to view his collection. Zymboly bought another flag; later, another neighbor — one who owned a flag store — invited Zymboly to see his collection.
Zymboly is also interested
in genealogy and went on the hunt to learn more about the history of the flags. That first “Betsy Ross” has now grown into a collection of 60-plus flags and a continuing interest in how the U.S. flag has evolved.
Zymboly grew up in western Pennsylvania and is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh. He retired after 37 years in sales and marketing with the Fort James Corp. He has two grown, married daughters and seven grandchildren. He enjoys his work at church, especially singing in the choir, serving as a docent at Garvan Woodland Gardens, and helping as a greeter-receptionist at Good Sam.
Zymboly refers to flags as the “government’s nametag,” especially true for ships at sea. Every flag has an important and interesting story behind it.
There are also myths that have become part of the mystique of the country’s flag. Zymboly will discuss these and do some “debunking” as he shares his collection and stories with members and guests at the Oct. 14 event.
The public is welcome to join AAUW members for this special Columbus Day program. Wine and appetizers will be served, and the event is free, starting at 4 p.m.
For more information, email Kim Townsan at townsaka@yahoo.com or call 860-836-7234.