Happy Thanksgiving! We still have five weeks until the winter solstice, the “first day of winter,” but last weekend looked like full-blown winter. And, of course, just five weeks ago, on October 10, we had a high of 82 degrees. What a wild, wonderful, Pennsylvania swing of weather! I do hope that everyone stays aware of the most up-to-date forecasts so that accidents and mishaps can be avoided. While many seemed to think the latest storm was not forecasted well, I know that local amateur meteorologist and storm chaser Eli Roberts did predict that Winter Storm Avery (as named by the Weather Channel) could bring us significant accumulations, and he cautioned his web viewers to be prepared. Yes, he is also my son, and while I naturally have prejudice in his favor, there are many others who follow his live broadcasts and trust his judgement, gained from years of study and observation.

Thanksgiving is on the earliest possible date this year, and I noticed that Easter is very late (April 21). It seems that winter is usually bracketed by these two holidays, so I think it will be a good year to have extra supplies of boots, hats, and mittens around. It’s also a great idea to pick up some extras when possible, to donate for those in need. There are several organizations that will be distributing warm outerwear items and will appreciate your generosity. Megan’s Box is one of the premier local foundations that will be providing for children in our area. The Salvation Army and American Rescue Workers, Touch-a-Heart, and the Marine Corps League also can use any help you can provide, and you may know of other local worthy causes. I encourage everyone to help make our community strong and supportive of all our residents.

Another way we can all support our community is to “Shop Local” and patronize our local businesses as the Christmas shopping season begins. The Annual “5 to Drive” campaign begins on Thanksgiving Day and continues until the Hughesville Christmas parade on Sunday, December 2. Get your GHBA (Greater Hughesville Business Association) card at any member business, visit at least 5 participating locations, and get your name entered for the drawing for spectacular prizes that will follow the parade.

Hughesville Events:

Thurs. Nov. 22 to Sun. Dec. 2 GHBA’s “5 to Drive” event in Hughesville and surrounding area.

Sat. Nov. 24 “Polar Express” Train at East Lycoming Historical Society museum, 1 5 p.m., also on Sun. Nov. 25, 1 5 p.m., Fri. Nov. 30, 5 8 p.m., Sat. Dec. 1, 1 5 p.m., & Sun. Dec. 2, noon to 5 p.m.

Sat. Nov. 24 Fiber Fillies crafters guild meets at ELHS museum. Join the fun, beginner to expert, every 2nd and 4th Saturday, noon to 3 p.m.

Sat. Nov. 24 “Home for the Holidays” event in Eagles Mere Village, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendors, activities, and music, and local shops will be open.

Mon. Nov. 26 “Wee Tales” for children ages 12 months to 3 years and their caregivers at Hughesville Area Public Library (HAPL), 146 South Fifth St., 10:30 11:15 a.m. Please register and get more info by visiting the library or call 570-584-3762.

Mon. Nov. 26 Santa’s Workshop Craft and Vendor Show, 5-8 p.m., hosted by Hughesville Volunteer Fire Dept. Auxiliary at fire dept. social hall. Free admission and pictures with Santa.

Tues. Nov. 27 “Pre-school Storytime,” for children ages 3 to 6 and caregivers at HAPL, 10:30 11:15 a.m. Registration is appreciated.

Tues. Nov. 27 Craft night at the Hughesville Library. Make a wreath of old books, 6-8 p.m. Call to register at 584-3762.

Thurs. Nov. 29 “Wee Make Music” for children ages 12 months and up and their caregivers at HAPL from 10:30 11:15 a.m. Please register for this activity.

Fri. Nov. 30 “Wee Play” for children ages 2 to 6 and their caregivers at HAPL from 10:30 11:30 a.m. This station-based activity that encourages free play and also helps develop children’s fine motor skills, verbal skills, and creativity. Registration not required.

Sun. Dec. 2 Breakfast with Santa, Picture Rocks Fire Hall