I was sorry to read that the JC Penney store in the Lycoming Mall will be closing. With Macy’s on the way out, and now this major anchor store, I see a trend for these big stores shutting down in small towns. Sears will be closing at the Susquehanna Valley Mall and perhaps mall shopping will only be seasonal. Some experts attest this to more online shopping using smartphone apps and other technology. With 138 JC Penny store closings, plus Macy’s, that is a lot of lost retail jobs here. I do not foresee a growing economy. I spoke with three local people last week who were just laid off from local employers. Is this going to be another trend?

Congratulations to Jasmyn Cramm, daughter of Mary and Eric Eck and who was named Muncy High School’s student of the month! She plans on attending Bloomsburg University in the fall and will be majoring in finance.

The story of Orlando Noviello of Muncy who is now 81 and founder of Orlando’s Restaurant is featured in the 2017 spring issue of UPMC Susquehanna Health’s magazine. Orlando shared his testimonial to the care he received when he needed triple bypass surgery, and his quick return home has given him “more moments of good fortune” in his life. Orlando started his business in 1962.

Next Wednesday, March 29, visit Perkins from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. and they will donate 20 percent of your bill to the Lycoming Animal Protection Society (LAPS.) If you are unable to attend but would like to donate something towards their shelter wish list, they could use detergents, kitchen garbage bags, paper towels, canned cat food, scoopable cat litter and dry cat food. LAPS is located in S. Williamsport.

Muncy Events

Weds. Mar. 22 Workshop ‘Could it be ADHDOr Something Else?’ to discuss common visual problems that complicate or mimic attention problems, starting 6 p.m. at Vision & Learning Center, 112 S. Main St., Muncy. RSVP: Karen at 570-546-4885.

Thurs. Mar. 23 The Susquehanna Civil War Roundtable will feature Roundtable member and local historian Barry Stocker at 7 p.m. at the the Degenstein Library, 40 S. 5th St. Sunbury. Barry will be presenting his program on “The Amish in the Civil War”. A brief business meeting precedes the program. All are welcome to attend! For further information contact Greg Kline at 717-571-6877.

Sun. Mar. 26 Katys Country Church, 440 Katys Church Road, Muncy, will reopen with services starting at 12:30 with Pastor McNett and weathr permitting. Services will continue monthly the 2nd & 4th Sunday. More info 570-764-2412.

Sat. Apr. 1 make a berry bowl at Centered Earth Clay Arts Studio, 1-3 p.m., Pennsdale.

Weds. Mar. 29 discussion and handouts on healthy eating for older adults, 11:30 a.m. at the Meck Senior Center, Muncy. On Thurs. Mar. 30 at noon make some sunflowers with Helen.

Weds. Mar. 29 preschool storytime at 10 a.m., Muncy Public Library, ages 3-5. Enjoy a fun filled hour of stories, crafts and games for your energetic toddler. Siblings are welcome.

Fri. Mar. 31 Toddler tales at Muncy Public Library, ages 1-3, 10 a.m. A fun filled hour to prepare your child for kindergarten.

Apr. 5 & 6 senior food box distribution days for elegible seniors for Easter at Son-Light House, 130 Carpenter St., Muncy. Weds. 9 to noon, Thurs. 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Thurs. Apr. 6 is the 100 year anniversary of WWI.

Mon. Apr. 10 REGISTER NOW for the Kids Run at the Y for ages 5-14. Classes begin Apr. 10 and end May 20. Participants will learn the fundamentals of running as well as learn the importance of cross training.