We can all hope that last week’s killing frost was the end of what seems to have been a long season of cold weather. But now we can begin to enjoy all the outdoor traditions. Bring your flag and chair, if you like, to the local Memorial Day observance, organized and sponsored by the American Legion Post #35. The morning will begin with the annual parade through town, featuring the HHS Spartan Marching Band, this year’s honored 8th grade students, and veterans from all our military branches. Immediately after the parade the services culminate with music, speeches, and military honors at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. In preparation for the holiday, many people have spent time recently cleaning up and planting flowers at the cemetery. Many people choose perennial plants to keep weeds at bay and hold the soil in place around the gravestones; I think it’s much better than the bare soil that results from the increasing use of weed-killers.

We are also at the time of year when local fire departments will be holding carnivals to raise funds for their year-round operating expenses. I encourage everyone to visit the HVFD carnival to sample all the good food items, enjoy the rides and games, and savor the camaraderie of seeing friends and neighbors. We are fortunate to have a dedicated volunteer group of firefighters who help keep our community safe and it’s important that we all support them.

Hughesville Area Public Library is preparing for Summer Reading for students in grades K 12 with a variety of activities and get-togethers for elementary, junior high and senior high. This year’s theme is “Beneath the Surface”. They will be exploring a wide range of topics from history to graffiti art, from hobbits to “shark week”. Registration will begin after Memorial Day, so visit the library for more detail and a reading log. Parents who need ideas for helping their children find interesting things to read over the summer can get lists and suggestions from the library staff.

Hughesville events

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

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

Mon. May 27, 9 a.m. Memorial Day Parade, followed by services at Pleasant Hill Cemetery

Sat. June 1, 4 to 7 p.m. Baked Steak Dinner, Trinity Lutheran Church, Hughesville. If you’re looking for a Saturday night dinner idea, be sure to get your tickets for this fund-raiser that is being organized by Eagle Scout candidate Coleman Wolfe. Call the church office at 584-3940 to reserve your tickets.

Have a great week and get those pets, floats, and costumes ready for the HVFD Pet Parade on Monday June 3!

June 3 to 8 HVFD carnival, Firemen’s lot, South Railroad Street, Hughesville