As I began this column, which will be published on the 20th of the month, I realized that in exactly one year it will be Inauguration Day for the next President of the United States. I am not going to engage in any political discussion or share any opinion of those persons who are currently vying for the nominations of the major parties. However, I am sure that the year will be filled with appeals for every citizen to make a choice and to vote in both the May primary election, and the November general election. At the very least, it will be an interesting campaign.

Despite the minimal amounts of snowfall, I have had to go to the carwash twice lately to get the road grime, salt, and gunk off my car. I switched to a car in a darker color and really notice the dirt much sooner than before! I don’t mind using the carwash if we’ve had a significant storm, and I have driven through a lot of slush and puddles, but it seems ridiculous that such a miniscule amount of snow could result in so much dirt!

Early morning will be the time to observe all five bright planets at the same time. Beginning this week and continuing until about February 20, Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Mars, and Jupiter will all be visible before dawn. Mercury is, of course, closest to the sun, so it may be difficult to see if you are here in town, since we are nestled in our little valley. Still, with luck, we may be able to see this celestial treat that hasn’t occurred since 2005. Another oddity, a comet, is passing through our solar system, but has not been visible to the naked eye. You can find some nice photos online showing Comet Catalina online at my favorite stargazer website www.earthsky.org.

Closer to home there are lots of ways to keep busy, even though there isn’t any snow to shovel. The Hughesville Area Public Library, the members of the GHBA, and activities at the local schools all offer plenty of opportunities to get out of the house and make your leisure time more enjoyable.

Hughesville events:

Fri. Jan. 22 Preschool story hour at Hughesville Area Public Library, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Theme will be Food. Register at circulation desk or call 570-584-3762.

Sat. Feb. 13 Disney Princess Night at the Hughesville Area Public Library. Doors open 6:30 p.m. and movie will begin at 7 p.m.

The Pioneer Valley4-H group will meet Sat. Feb. 13, 7 p.m. at the Clarkstown United Methodist Church. If interested in joining contact Ruth Vandine at 570-546-2564.