If you are like me, summer time is a period of less structure, with what seems like an immense stretch of time for spontaneous choices of daily occupation. Of course, I usually get to the end of the summer and wonder where the time went, and why I didn’t find time for all those projects that held such promise in April and May! I know I should set myself a schedule so that I can make progress on my list. Maybe this year . . .

The recent heat wave made it clear that we all need to make sure our pets are provided with plenty of water and areas where they can cool off. If they are indoors all day alone, a ceiling fan air conditioner will keep your furry friends comfortable. Of course, any animals that are outdoors need to be monitored carefully to keep them from overheating. Shade and lots of water are crucial.

One of the things that I have added to my “to do” list is catching up on my reading, particularly the 100 titles on the list from the PBS Great American Read, a project that is gathering votes for the top spot on the list, to be unveiled in the fall. I have only read 50 of the 100 books, and while there are several in which I have no interest, I would like to get to a higher percentage. I urge everyone to check out the list, then head over to the Hughesville Area Public Library, or a cool drive to the Eagles Mere Bookstore, and find a few that pique your interest. A good book, a glass of iced tea, and a porch swing can go a long way toward perfect summer days!

Congratulations to several members of the HHS Softball team from the 2017-2018 school year! Four of our Lady Spartans were honored for their athletic prowess by the Sun-Gazette recently. Sarah Wertz was named 1st runner-up “breakthrough underclassman.” Olivia Miller and Megan Ryder earned the title “underclassmen to watch,” and Emily Watts, catcher, was named to the 2nd team All-Stars!! Great job, ladies!

Next Wednesday is the beginning of the 148th annual Lycoming County Fair! There are many musical presentations scheduled, plus harness racing, demo derbies, and truck-and tractor-pulls. Of course, there will be the usual assortment of interesting displays, 4-H contests and livestock, plus all the great, fun fair food! General admission is lower this year but does not include rides. Kids 12 and under are admitted to the fair FREE everyday with a paid adult admission. Neither the brochure, nor the website, list the cost of rides, so call the fair office at 570-584-2196 if you need that information.

Hughesville Events

Sat. July 7 “Rock Star Puppet Theater,” a program for children ages 5 to 12 at Hughesville Area Public Library (HAPL), 146 S. Fifth St., 2 p.m.

Sat. July 7 Annual Eagles Mere Antiques Market, on the Village Green, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sat. July 7 Laporte Carpenter Cruise, an antique and classic car parade through town from the high school to the town park. Begins at 10 a.m.

Sat. July 7 Vietnam Veterans Tribute at the Endless Mountains War Memorial Museum, 109 Main Street in Sonestown, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

July 9 & 10 “Wee Tales” program for children ages 1 to 4 and their caregivers at HAPL, 10:30 a.m.

Weds. July 11 soft opening for fair with dinner and harness racing. Gates open at 4 p.m.

Thurs. July 12 fireworks at the Lycoming County fairgrounds starting at 9:30 p.m.