HUGHESVILLE – The Greater Hughesville Business Association met last month to discuss preliminary plans for this year’s big event, the “The 5 to Drive” held in November starting on the Friday after Thanksgiving. It was suggested by Donna McGarvey who owns Donna’s Gifts to keep the stores open longer on the last Sunday of November. She also recommended to add Victorian Carolers or some live music to accompany shoppers during the event. Suzanne Holmes also brought up the idea of ice sculptures and welcomed any more new ideas to enhance the event.

Holmes also elaborated on the “Rotary Mural”, a project started by the East Lycoming Historical Society. Although an exact location has yet to be determined for the mural, the organization is looking for community participation.

Also discussed were adding more memorial bricks to the gazebo walk on Main Street and plants. GHBA will be working with the Hughesville Rotary to add some trees and build a handicap ramp. Sheila Barto said this should be a priority and will ask the Hughesville Garden Club to help with some of the plantings along downtown Main Street next year. “No one takes care of the plants and such in front of their store fronts,” she said.

A downtown committee proposed by member Cheryl Richards will be formed to work on the outside businesses to beautify the downtown, and also to perhaps get the schools involved by working with art students or hosting a contest or art competition. “Cash prizes can be awarded,” recommended Tom Donofrio. The group decided to contact Mr. Carol from the high school who runs the greenhouses and consult with him about proper plantings.

Two parades are in the works, one at Halloween and the Christmas Parade. “Help is always needed,” added Holmes. The exact date for the Halloween parade will be announced as Halloween falls on a Thursday this year. The Christmas parade is scheduled for Dec. 8.

The organization also met Tuesday night at the Edward Jones Office on Railroad Street to discuss further plans for the upcoming events.