Happy Thanksgiving, 2017! Despite some rather strange variations in what we often perceive to be “normal” temperatures and weather patterns, mid-November has been closer to average. I know that some folks would like there to be snow, but I am content to wait another few weeks for that. Many area residents will be rising very early over the next few days to indulge in some sort of search activity. Some will be searching for bargains and gifts that will be perfect for their intended recipients. Others will be taking to the woods, searching for those elusive white-tailed bucks so that they may stock their freezers. And some of us will enjoy relaxation and camaraderie with relatives who live at a distance.

Another observance is occurring today, November 22. It doesn’t seem possible that 54 years have passed since we heard the mind-numbing news that John F. Kennedy, President of the U. S., had been assassinated in Dallas, Texas. As with all those who perished while in office, it is interesting to wonder how our history may have been different if there had been no assassin.

There are many things coming up here in Hughesville as we move toward December and the end of the calendar year. Beginning Friday, please remember to pick up your “5 to Drive” card at any of the participating Greater Hughesville Business Association (GHBA) members and shop at our many fine local establishments. Not only will you be helping our local business owners, you will also have a chance to win one of the many wonderful prizes that have been donated. The prize drawings will be held in the HVFD Social Hall, on South Railroad Street, at the conclusion of the Christmas Parade on December 3. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask at any merchant that displays a GHBA membership sign.

Hughesville Events:

Thurs. Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Day.

Fri. Nov. 24, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. Pre-school Story Time for children 3–6 years and their caregivers, at Hughesville Area Public Library (HAPL), 146 S. Fifth Street.

Sat. Nov. 25 “We Build Block Party,” a self-directed, walk-in activity for children aged 3 and up. No registration is needed for this event at HAPL, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Sat. & Sun. Nov. 25 & 26, noon to 3 p.m., East Lycoming Historical Society museum at 66 S. Main Street, Hughesville, will be open and featuring a marvelous train set-up, with a “Polar Express” theme. Bring the family and see all the fascinating exhibits that showcase our local history.

Mon. Nov. 27 “Wee Tales” for children ages 12 months to 3 years and their caregivers at HAPL,146 S. Fifth Street, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m.

Tues. Nov. 28, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. “Wee Play” for children ages 2 – 6 years and their caregivers at HAPL.

Dec. 1-3 The East Lycoming Museum will be open from 3-9 on Friday night and the Polar Express train exhibit will be open from 5-8 p.m. On Sat. Dec. 2 museum will be open from 10-5 and the Polar Express from 1-5. On Sunday will be open from 12-5. Bring the family.

Sun. Dec. 3, 1 p.m. Christmas Parade and arrival of Santa Claus! Sponsored by GHBA, the parade will conclude at the Hughesville Volunteer Firemen’s lot.

Sun. Dec. 3 Breakfast buffet with Santa, Picture Rocks Fire Company, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sponsored by the Jessica Hicks Foundation to help fight children’s cancer. Tickets include photos with Santa.