There are daffodils in bloom in my neighborhood (not in my garden, unfortuntaely), and I’ve spotted several birds with grass, string, and other nest-building material clutched in their beaks, busily searching for the perfect spot for this year’s home. Some robins are very disgusted that their family’s favorite hatching site on my patio has been removed. I like to accommodate wildlife, but I don’t like to be accosted by an angry pair of robins every time I try to sit outdoors! There are many other equally attractive places for their nest farther out in the yard. But lilac buds are swelling, and isn’t it amazing how the color of the grass has changed and is becoming truly “grass” green again?

The article in last week’s Luminary regarding the Robert Webster Local History Award brought memories of his classes alive for many of us who were his students. For me, copying into my notebook by hand the maps he had drawn in chalk on the slate boards was a highly effective means of learning about the world and it’s landforms and people. I can still recall the outline of many of the world’s countries as they appeared in his classroom!

As the weather is improving and allowing for bicycling, walking, and running, I would caution everyone to be alert whenever driving anywhere in or around the borough. While drivers of cars and trucks are expected to share the streets with folks who are using alternate means of getting around, it is important for everyone to be easily visible. Please make sure your bikes, strollers, or running shoes have lights or reflective surfaces that will make it easy for drivers to see you. It is scary to be suddenly aware of a walker just ahead of your car! While our streets are lighted, there are areas where shadows make it difficult to spot someone dressed in dark clothing.

Enjoy the April showers!

Hughesville events

Fri. April 12, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Pre-school Story Hour at Hughesville Area Public Library, 146 South 5th Street. Register at the library or call 584-3762. Also that day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. there will be a book signing by author Raymond Howlett at the library. Copies of his 3 books will be available for purchase.

A tasty fundraiser will take place at Tivoli United Methodist Church beginning at 9:00 a.m. this Saturday, April 13th. The soup kettles will be fired up outside and used to make ham and bean, chicken corn and vegetable beef soups available by the bowl and by the quart. A lunch will be served and baked goods will be on hand. The church is three miles north of Picture Rocks on Route 220.

Mon. Apr. 15 the East Lycoming Historical Society will meet at 7 p.m. in the social hall of the Trinity Lutheran Church, Main Street, Hughesville. The program will be on the Smith/Wallis Grist Mill located in Moreland Township. Colonel George Smith built the first gristmill in 1796, served in the Revolutionary War and moved to Muncy Creek area in 1790. Everyone is welcome.

Sat. April 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rotary “E-cycle” event, South Railroad Street, Hughesville

Apr. 27 Afternoon Tea sponsored by ELHS at the Friends Church, Fireside Room, S. Third Street, Hughesville. Doors open at 1:30 p.m.

May 4 Hughesville Rotary Annual Pig Roast fundraiser at the Hughesville Fire Hall from 11 to 6. Pulled pork sandwiches and platters, take-outs, and free delivery by calling 584-3940. Tickets also available at Muncy Bank & Trust and First National Bank and from any Hughesville Rotarian.

May 5 the Consolidated Sportsmen of Muncy Creeks will hold its annual Dick Harner Memorial Children’s Fishing Derby at Van Rennselar Park in Picture Rocks.