We bid adieu to November and enter the last month of the year, and as I look around Hughesville, I am reminded of the many reasons I am glad to call this little town home. The community has a wide range of service organizations and church groups that are devoted to making life better for all residents. Local businesses are decked out with decorations and goods that will bring many smiles to gift recipients. Please remember that the GHBA “Five to Drive” promotion continues through this weekend, culminating with the prize drawings after the Christmas parade on Sunday. Of course, you can continue to find great gifts at our local homegrown stores. Shop local, shop small business, all through the year.

East Water Street has taken on a new appearance. In preparation for the re-paving and widening of the street to upgrade state route 118’s path through the borough, most of the trees that have been growing between the curb and sidewalk have been removed. It will take a long time to adjust to the change, particularly when summer comes and the shade is missing. I have also seen markings for water, sewer, electric, phone, and gas lines, so I assume that some new connections may be made for those utilities that cross above or under this busy thoroughfare. Since I understand that work is expected to begin in 2017 on both the Water Street and North Main Street projects, traffic patterns might get interesting! We will all need to pay special attention as these improvements take place.

Did you get your Lion’s Club sauerkraut yet? I found this tasty annual treat available at local grocery outlets, so be sure that you don’t miss out! The Lions Club is one of those organizations that contribute much to the public welfare and this is a major fundraiser for their activities.

Hughesville Events:

Fri. Dec. 2 Tree Lighting ceremony hosted by Hughesville Rotary, 7 p.m. corner of Main and Water Sts. Look for arrival of Santa.

Sat. Dec. 3, 2 to 5 p.m. Make a Christmas Ornament at Hughesville Area Public Library. A special craft event for elementary aged children and older. All materials provided. Please call or visit the library to register.

Sun. Dec. 4 Breakfast with Santa at the Picture Rocks Fire Company, 8-1. Benefits the Jessica Hicks Foundation, helping children fight cancer.

Sun. Dec. 4, 10:30 a.m. Come one–Come all!! The Muncy Presbyterian Church will have a Bluegrass Worship service featuring the bluegrass group “Raven Creek” from Benton who will provide gospel music for that day’s service. The church is located at 10 Penn Street in Muncy.

Sun. Dec. 4, 1 p.m. Hughesville Christmas Parade followed by a special children’s party with Santa at the Hughesville Fire Hall. Parade prize winners will be announced.

Weds. Dec. 7 Huntersville and Pennsdale Senior Citizens Christmas dinner at the LCTC next to Hughesville High School at noon.