March is just around the corner (this weekend, actually!) and I don’t think there are too many central Pennsylvania residents who will be betting on the month coming in like a lamb! If January and February are indicative of the weather we can expect for this year, I anticipate that each season will show us its extremes.

Have you been like me and slightly sleep-deprived over the last couple of weeks because of the Olympics? I have been a long-time fan and still marvel at the dedication and determination exhibited by all those who so ably represented their nations. While there were some disappointments, I really enjoyed seeing the U. S. Winter Olympians perform well. I found myself wishing I still had some cross-country skis and boots that fit, or at least the energy to get outside and brave the cold!

Raise the Region 2014 is almost here! Make sure you have all the info you need to log in to the website www.raisetheregion.org on Wednesday, March 12 (after 6 p.m.) or Thursday, March 13 (until 11:59 p.m.) to make a fully tax-deductible contribution to one or several of your favorite non-profit groups from central Pennsylvania. This is a fund-raising event of the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania. We’ll be taking a close look at the list, since there are nearly 200 organizations listed and I will want to have a “game plan” for supporting as many of my favorites as possible! If you haven’t yet made your choice, two local organizations that count on the support of Hughesville residents are the East Lycoming Historical Society and the Hughesville Area Public Library. Please mark your calendar and give generously! This is a great opportunity, since all contributions will be “stretched” by a $125,000 grant from the Blaise Alexander Family Dealerships. Check the website for more information about special awards that can be earned by organizations who have contributions at special times, greatest number of contributors, earliest contributions, etc. Let’s all help “raise the region”!

Hughesville events

“Come and meet those dancin’ feet . . .” at the Hughesville High School production of “Forty-Second Street”, March 6, 7, & 8 at 7:30 p.m. in the HHS auditorium. This musical show, full of songs and tap dancing, is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Tickets may be reserved by contacting any cast member or by calling the high school office during school hours at (570) 584-5111. All seats are reserved. Call now and your tickets will be ready for you to pick up and pay for at the auditorium entrance on performance nights.

Tuesday, March 4, 4 to 7 p.m. Annual Fasnacht Dinner, Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Main and Academy Streets, Hughesville. Those under age 6 free. Takeouts available.

Wednesday, March 5, Christians world-wide observe Ash Wednesday.

Do you have questions about life? Active searching involves courage and supportive community. On Sunday, March 9, Bethany UMC and Christ United Methodist Church will begin a new series called: “Fearless – the Courage to Question.” Public is invited at 9 a.m. to Bethany UMC, 111 South 2nd Street, and 10:30 a.m. at Christ UMC, 146 South Main Street.

Friday, March 14, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Pre-school Story Hour at the Hughesville Area Public Library, 146 South Fifth Street. Register your child by visiting the library or calling (570) 584-3762.