Keep your heart healthy! That’s the motto this month and there are plenty of resources out there to do so. Brisk walking, staying active and doing things that benefit yourself will help your cardiovascular health overall. However, it should be a lifelong decision, not just during February. But the reminder is there to get physical check-ups, monitor your blood pressure, eat in moderate or smaller portions, and drink lots of water. It’s hard to do these things during cold weather and stay motivated.

One way to beat those winter blues is to bring in the natural light as much as possible, especially during these shorter dreary days. The light itself and the sunshine (if we’re lucky to see it), radiates natural warmth and motivates me to stay active until the warm weather returns. First thing in the morning, I open the blinds and pull the curtains aside. Also the natural light will provide some beneficial Vitamin D. As aging seniors, our health is always compromised and it’s best to stay on top of it, making it a priority 24/7.

On Thursday, Feb. 21st Bennardi and Barberio Dentistry in Muncy will be hosting a PM Exchange with the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce from 5 to 7 p.m. to help recognize 65 years of serving the Muncy community. They are anxious to share with the surrounding businesses their expanded services and 2000 sq. ft. addition.

The West Branch Chorale announced rehearsals have begun for their upcoming spring concerts in April. They are practicing Monday evenings at the Muncy Baptist Church at 7:30 p.m. Director, Shirley Smith said it will be a “celebration of Fred Astaire”. If you would like to join or become a member, call Shirley at 570-412-5949 or send her an email to srsmith17772@windstream.net.

The Great Backyard Bird Count is underway and will officially take place starting this Friday, Feb. 15 through Monday, Feb. 18. You are invited to count the birds you see for at least 15 minutes during this time period. Then go to birdcount.org and enter your checklist. It’s a great family fun activity. Many birds sighted this time of year will be finches and grosbeaks that are moving further south. The grosbeaks are colorful and are moving from Atlantic Canada to North Carolina. They are looking for berry crops and cone seeds according to the Audubon Society. A bird walk is also scheduled this weekend at the Montour Preserve.

Finally take advantage of all those President’s Day sales with some great buys on home furnishings.

Muncy Events

Fri. Feb. 15 Toddler Tales at Muncy Public Library, ages 1-3, 10 a.m. Join Miss Monica for a fun filled hour of games and activities designed with your active toddler in mind. Siblings welcome.

Sat. Feb. 16 Winter Birds at the Montour Preserve, 10-11:30 a.m., meet in environmental education center. Do you like feeding birds in winter, but have trouble identifying them? Join naturalist Jon Beam for a look at winter birds and visit some feeders. Binoculars helpful but not required. Also introduced will be the annual Great Backyard Bird Count.

Mon. Feb. 18 Full Circle Future Harvest gathering meet at the Muncy Public Library, 6 p.m. to focus on soil preservation and the upcoming growing season. Call 546-5014 to see what’s scheduled for the evening.

Tues. Feb. 19 public meeting with Muncy Pool Association trustees to discuss operating pool for 2019. Held at Muncy High School auditorium 6:30 p.m.

Sat. Feb. 23 the Susquehanna Valley Quilt Guild will be having an pen workshop at the First United Methodist Church in Pennsdale. If interested, contact Sue Keller or email info@susqvalleyquilters.org

Weds. Feb. 20 Preschool storytime at Muncy Public library for ages 3-5, 10 a.m. Join Miss Monica for a fun-filled hour of activities, crafts, and stories designed to prepare your child for kindergarten.

Feb. 20 & 21 Diistribution days at Son-Light House, 130 Carpenter St., Muncy. Weds. 8:30 a.m. to noon and Thurs. 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Thurs. Feb. 21 adult and kids paint night at the Muncy Library, 6 p.m.

Sat. Feb. 23 Friends of the Muncy Library used book fundraiser, 10-1.