Congratulations to Deborah Mezik from Muncy for her winning watercolor painting of Muncy’s St. James Episcopal Church that was chosen for the Christmas cover of the Williamsport Sun-Gazette. She won first prize for this annual Bald Eagle Art League church painting competition. This is Deborah’s second time for winning this contest. She really captured the beautiful essence of the church during the time of year with a closeup of the vibrant entrance doors and snow covered landscaping. Deborah said she has been painting since 2008, taking classes and pushing herself to do better. She has since donated the painting to the church so that everyone can enjoy the piece. She said that the church isn’t a building. “It’s not the door or the window, it’s the people. They’re what makes up the church.”

Another tribute needs to go to Lois Temple who organized a most beloved and memorable Christmas dinner at the Hughesville Fire Hall. Her graciousness and remarkable giving spirit brought happiness to many families who otherwise would be shut in alone during this holiday. She had gift baskets she gave away from Styers Market and gift cards from Weis to those who needed them. Meanwhile, we got to enjoy a free meal (donations readily accepted) of great tasting turkey and ham prepared by many local volunteers, and listened to live entertainment with bluegrass music performed by the Greenwood Valley Band. This was unlike any other Christmas I have ever spent and I was quite grateful for the opportunity not to cook since our children had other plans for the their Christmas meal. I was told that Lois coordinates this every year and has done so for more than 30 years. She is a blessed soul indeed, and she is looking for someone to help her or take it over in the upcoming years as she is getting older and more physically challenged.

The American Red Cross North Central Pennsylvania Chapter is seeking nominations for two annual Heroes Breakfasts one in Williamsport and one in Lewisburg. These events honor ordinary individuals who have made extraordinary contributions that have impacted the lives of people in our area. Nomination deadline for both events is January 31, 2016. Nominations forms can be downloaded and tickets to the events purchased online at redcross.org/centralpa. You can also obtain nomination forms and tickets by contacting Natalie Kuhns at natalie.kuhns@redcross.org or 570-524-0400 ext. 1603.

Happy New Year everyone and welcome 2016!

Muncy Events

“Toddler Tales with Miss Victoria” at the Muncy Public Library begins Friday, January 8, 15, 22, and 29, from 10:00-10:45 a.m. The second set will begin Friday, Feb. 12 and run the 19th, 26th, and March 4, from 10:00-10:45am. This popular program is designed for children ages 12 mos. to 3 years and their caregivers. We sing, dance, do fingerplays, hear a story, share board books together and play with developmentally appropriate toys. It’s a great time to help your busy child develop his social skills, and the perfect time to play with your child and network with other caregivers! Space is limited, so register soon by calling 570-546-5014.

Sat. Jan. 9 The Fraternal Order of Police, Pennsylvania State Lodge will call on all Pennsylvanians to join them and law enforcement associations across America to celebrate National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day.

Sat. Jan. 9th at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, 10275 State Route 44, Watsontown, there will be a Roast Pork Dinner from 4-6 p.m. featuring potatoes, vegetable, dessert and beverage.

Sun. Jan. 10 Open House at First United Methodist Church, 602 S. Market St., Muncy. Members of the church will be leading guided tours through the church’s newly completed Celebration Center. For more information call 570-546-8030.

Tues. Jan. 12 National Glaucoma Awareness Month with a discussion at the Meck Senior Center, 50 Fitness Lane, Muncy, starting at 11:30 a.m. followed by lunch. Blood pressure clinic on Weds. Jan. 13 with Sun Home Health at 11 a.m.