The recent icy conditions have reminded us that winter can be a treacherous season. This year has been much like last year. While we have had some weather to contend with, our area has not experienced the full effects of some of the storm systems that stayed closer to the coast. I hope everyone is making sure that emergency kits are stocked and checking road conditions before traveling.

Star-gazing is one thing I enjoy, although not when the weather is as cold as it has been lately. But this week there is a comet passing through our solar system which may be visible (with binoculars), so if I can bundle up and find an evening without clouds, I’ll be outside (briefly). Comet Lovejoy is heading toward the sun and will leave our neck of the universe soon, not to return for approximately 8,000 years, so I don’t expect to have another chance to see it! Closer to earth, the moon, Mars, and Venus will be visible near each other (from our viewpoint, at least) on Thursday, January 22, and Friday, January 23, so watch for that.

It’s always nice to have a meal with friends and neighbors, and knowing that your purchase of the meal helps out a local cause makes it even better. There are several upcoming opportunities, so be sure to mark your calendars now.

February 1 is the NFL championship game, the Superbowl. Many area churches have signed up to observe that day as ?Souper-bowl? Sunday, at which they collect non-perishable food items, particularly canned soup, and also cash donations for local food pantries. Totals of contributions are reported to an online website so a nationwide tally can be seen. Some churches include a meal of home-made soups and dessert for all those who make contributions. Check with the church of your choice for details and schedules.

The Hughesville High School Drama Club produces two shows annually. The Jr/Sr Class Play is performed in the autumn, and the musical production in the early spring. In November the students presented ?Pride and Prejudice? and coming up in March will be ?Damn Yankees?. The students are rehearsing daily and are also working to raise funds to defray production, costume, and accompaniment program costs. They will hold a Spaghetti Supper as part of their fund-raising efforts.

There is also a textile display at the Hughesville Library with some great looking quilt samples done by the volunteers who come every Tuesday morning to hand quilt.

Stay warm and safe!

Hughesville Events:

Mon. Feb. 2, 1 ?to 6 p.m. American Red Cross Bloodmobile will be at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 120 South Main Street, Hughesville.

Sat. Feb. 7, 4-7 p.m. Spaghetti supper fund-raiser for the Hughesville High School Drama Club, held at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 120 South Main Street, Hughesville. Tickets are available from any Drama Club member or at the door. age 5 and under, free. Take-outs will be available.