The recent break from sub-freezing temperatures has given us a bit of a breather in the approach to real winter. Hopefully the weather will be favorable for all those who are traveling for the Thanksgiving holiday. Our family will have folks driving in many directions over the course of the week, so I am especially praying for clear skies.

It’s time for GHBA’s annual 5 to Drive event! Stop in at any of the member merchants and check their qualifications for getting your entry ticket for the amazing list of prizes that will be awarded immediately following the Christmas parade through downtown Hughesville on Sunday December 2, 2014.

This year you can win a 2002 Grand Jeep Cherokee which is now on display in front of Doug Spotts Appliance store on N. Main Street.

Many area churches will observe the start of a new liturgical year with Advent beginning on Sunday. If you are a regularly attending church member you know this is the start of a busy time leading up to the celebration of Christmas. If you don’t have a church membership, but would like to explore the options, this would be a great time to visit one or more of the local churches. I’m sure you will find a church home.

High school athletes are beginning practices for the winter sports season, and student musicians are preparing winter concerts and auditioning for places in PMEA (Pennsylvania Music Educators Association) District festivals. You will have many opportunities to see these dedicated, talented students over the next few months, so get a copy of the athletic schedule and check the school district website for music events.

As you do your holiday shopping, remember that the Friends of the Hughesville Library have items to purchase for everyone on your list. There is a wide selection of used books, plus new book bags and notecards. If you need some leisure occupation, there are also jigsaw puzzles available at the Hughesville Area Public Library, so check out all your options at 146 South Fifth Street.

Hughesville Events

Friday, Nov. 28 GHBA’s 5 to Drive event begins.

Sat. Nov. 29 Thanksgiving dedication at East Lycoming Historical Society, 2-4 p.m. with gallery exhibit and sale.

Sunday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. Celebration Service, to mark the first Sunday of Advent, combining the congregations from Bethany U. M. Church and Christ U. M. Church in the sanctuary of Christ Methodist, 146 South Main, Hughesville.

Sun. Nov. 30 Horse and wagon rides, 10-4, S. Main Street Hughesville

Fri. Dec. 5 tree lighting ceremony and caroling, corner of Main and Water Streets, 6 p.m. Watch for Santa.

Sunday, December 7 Hughesville Christmas Parade and party