This is truly winter weather isn’t it? There have been some years in the recent past when January has been wet and dismal with temperatures ranging into the ’50s. Not this year! I have been searching for the warmest gloves I own, and pairing them with hats, scarves, multiple layers of socks, and any other means of “bundling up”. I have heard that next week may bring some moderation to our weather, so we’ll wait and see.

I heard a story about human kindness this week that I’d like to share. A retiree had gone to get some groceries at their western PA store, a Giant-Eagle location. While in the store, the gentleman collapsed and an ambulance was called to take him to the local hospital. The store employees located the man’s home phone number and notified his wife, then found the man’s grocery list, selected all the items on the list and delivered them to his home. A family member allowed the delivery person to take the items into the house and they put all the perishables in the refrigerator, then refused payment for any of the groceries, on the store manager’s instruction. The store personnel also offered any further assistance that might be needed in the course of the man’s recovery. What a great example of true caring for one’s neighbor!

There are some ways we can all help out locally, and some great opportunities for fellowship with members of our community. There is an ongoing need for donations at the Son-Light House in Muncy, with some local Boy Scouts focusing on collecting breakfast cereal. Several local churches are providing a place for donations which are then delivered to the food pantry location in Muncy.

Another opportunity for serving our area is through blood donation. There will be a visit by the Bloodmobile at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hughesville on Monday, February 2, from 1 to 6 p.m., so mark your calendars now.

As we progress through the winter season, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is running well and is ready for dealing with slippery or snow covered surfaces. Windshield wiper blades and washer fluid are very important to keeping your view of the road clear. Be sure to have your emergency kit stocked, and be aware of weather and road conditions before you venture forth! Stay warm and enjoy the absence of gnats, high humidity, and stifling heat that we all complain about in July!

Hughesville events:

Weds. Jan. 14, 6 to 9 p.m. PennDOT Engineering District 3 will host a third public meeting for the Routes 220 and 405 Intersection Congestion Relief Study at Hughesville High School, 349 Cemetery Drive, Hughesville. The purpose of the meeting is to present the selected intersection improvement alternative and to receive public comment. A formal presentation will take place in the school auditorium starting at 6:30 p.m.

Weds. Jan. 14, 5 to 7 p.m. Free Turkey Dinner for anyone in the community, held at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 3 miles west of Unityville at Gordner’s Grove.

Mon. Jan. 19 No school for students in East Lycoming School District. Teachers will have an in-service day. The last day of the semester is on Tuesday, January 20.