Our recent weather has been nearly perfect for the opening of summer! Despite a cool spell (which coincided neatly with setting up our pool) last week, we are finally having those warm, sunny days that make a yard and porch so wonderful. Now that my garden is finally planted, the pool in use, and perennials crowding out the weeds, I am truly enjoying the outdoors.

Another outdoor enjoyment is hiking in our nearby state parks and recreation areas. We made a Father’s Day excursion to Rickett’s Glen State Park and completed the Falls Trail, a moderately strenuous 3.8 mile delight. The water level was relatively low, but the falls were still impressive and the cool air in the gorges was a nice respite from the heat in town. I was a bit distressed, however, by the behaviors of many others who were also in the park. I lost count of the number of people (of a wide range of ages) who strayed off the established path, or climbed around and under the falls, dislodging rocks and generally disregarding the idea of preserving this natural treasure. I urge anyone who chooses to visit our public lands to understand that their actions that damage the natural environment often lead to deterioration that is difficult to stop and that may result in restricting access to fragile areas. Everyone working together can preserve our parks for generations, but poor choices by a few can jeopardize the parks’ existence.

Whether you are swimming, biking, hiking, playing a team or individual sport, or just spending leisure time sitting outside, I hope you have a great week!

Hughesville Events:

Sundays, through July, services for the Hughesville United Methodist charge will be held in Christ U. M. Church social hall, 146 South Main Street, Hughesville. Sundays at 9:30 a.m. and Wednesdays at 6 p.m.

Thurs. June 23, 6:30 p.m. is ‘Teen Game Night’ at Hughesville Area Public Library. This is the first in a series of evening programs for teens, and will feature board games such as Risk, Settlers of Catan, Walking Dead Risk, and others. Throughout the summer, teens will have the opportunity to qualify for prizes as well as enjoy the special events.

Fri. June 24, 10:30 a.m. Story Hour at Hughesville Area Public Library for children ages 3 to 5. This week’s theme is “Lizards” so it’s sure to be an exciting time! Please visit or call the library at (570)584-3762 to register your child.

Sat. June 25, noon to 3, Fiber Fillies fiber arts guild will meet at the East Lycoming Historical Society museum, 66 South Main Street, Hughesville. This group meets on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month and features many different expressions of fiber art. New members are always welcome. Bring your current project of knitting, crocheting, needlework, embroidery, tatting, or any other handcraft. If you need help with technique or directions, this is the place to improve your skills and share your love of the fiber arts.

Tues. June 28, 6:30 p.m. HAPL’s first 2016 Summer Program for Adults, “Adult Coloring Night” will encourage the shedding of stress and release your inner design urge. Coloring pages, crayons, and colored pencils will be provided.

Weds. June 29, 2 p.m., “Ninja Camp” summer reading event for elementary age children. Kids will enjoy showing off their ninja skills and finding other adventures in reading.