If anyone has any doubts about the value of fine arts in our local school systems, they should have been in Williamsport on Sunday evening for the annual Ray of Light Awards presentations. This program recognizes performers in school dramatics and musical productions in our region. The wonderful examples of bright, talented young people gave credence to the philosophy of the benefits of a varied educational experience that includes not only math, science, and language, but also the arts. Congratulations are due to the many students from Hughesville High School (and also Muncy and Montgomery schools) who sang and danced on the stage of the Community Arts Center. Local nominees included Wes Walters, Josh Fry, Ben Nesselrodt, and Hayden Doty, plus the entire cast of “Twelve Angry Jurors”. Hayden Doty won the award for “Best Performance by a Supporting Actor in a Play”.

My gardening friend’s advice turned out to be correct, once again, as we had some frost in the area this past weekend, just as a thin crescent new moon was making its appearance. Perhaps now we can breathe easier about putting tender garden plants outdoors. It’s nice to look forward to all those tasty, sun-ripened and still sun-warmed tomatoes!

One of the many ways we can enjoy ourselves and do some good for others at the same time is by supporting boys and girls who participate in local scout troops. Boy Scout Troop 26 member and Eagle Scout candidate Coleman Wolfe has organized a Baked Steak Dinner. This fund-raiser, to benefit the troop and its chartering organization, will take place at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hughesville on Saturday, June 1 from 4-7 p.m. Call the church office at 584-3940 to reserve your tickets.

HHS Student Council is collecting donated clothing and shoes through the end of term. Items may be taken to the school’s front foyer where there are marked green bins. The Student Council produces the annual May Day Program, planned for May 23, 2013 at 7 p.m. This event features skits, dances, the traditional winding of the Maypole, and crowning of the May Day Princess and Queen.

If you are a graduate of good ol’ HHS, call Vivian Mills at 584-3452 to make reservations for the annual Alumni Banquet, Saturday, May 25. You may attend the banquet any year. It’s a fun way to catch up on what your friends have been doing and to renew old acquaintances.

Beginning June 3 students in grades K 12 will be able to register for Summer Reading at Hughesville area Public Library. There will be separate sessions for elementary, Junior high, and senior high. Information will soon be available at the library and will be distributed to all of the East Lycoming Schools.

Take advantage of the good weather and get outdoors whenever you can!

Hughesville events

Saturday, May 18, 4 -7 p.m. HHS Football Boosters Spaghetti Dinner, Picture Rocks Fire Hall

Sat. May 18 St. John’s Lutheran Church in Unityville will hold an all you can eat smorgasbord starting at 4 p.m. The church is 3 miles west of Unityville on Moreland Baptist Road.

Thursday, May 23, 7 p.m. HHS May Day Program, HHS gymnasium

Saturday, May 25, 6 p.m. Annual HHS Alumni Banquet, Hughesville Fire Hall, South Railroad Street.