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Events for grown-ups at MCL

The library’s summer reading program is coming to a close. Here are a few things going on for grown-ups if you are looking for things to do. Before July ends, please come into the Mifflin County Library in Lewistown and see the wonderful patriotic artwork our patrons made. We call it our favorite American Art collage. Eleven artists and library users participated. They each were given a small canvas to work on. The canvases are on display and people are encouraged to come and view the artwork but also vote on the artwork with spare change. This is also a small fundraiser for ...

Ceremony provides chance to reflect on heroism

A man from the Jersey Shore area recently was honored for, as U.S. Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson, R-Howard, put it, his part in the “legacy of those who saved the world and a representation of the best and the brightest that our nation offers.” As reported in Tuesday’s edition of the Williamsport Sun-Gazette, Thompson recently presented the family of the late Browning with nine medals — among them a bronze star — he earned during his service during the Second World War. “As we celebrate America’s 250, what a privilege to honor a member from the greatest generation that ...

Time outdoors creates memories, develops appreciation

From whitetail deer to fishers to porcupines and opossum, from eagles and grouse to the common snapping turtle, the nature that surrounds us is fascinating. Species with distinct characteristics and distinct roles in the natural ecosystem — roles that better understanding fosters a greater appreciation for how our region’s environment works. We understand that people are busy. But time spent outdoors not only educates and informs families, it can provide cherished memories. With summer underway, we truly hope that families are enjoying the richness of this nature. Our region ...

3 reasons not to visit Europe this summer

For some reason, many Americans seem convinced they have to tour Europe this summer — despite the heat, oppressive crowds and high prices all descending on the continent. And if anyone needs a fourth reason, it's to recognize the growing resentment among many Europeans as the tourist hordes turn their town centers into trinket malls, eroding their way of life and, in the process, stripping what made those places worth visiting in the first place. The mystery remains why so many Americans insist on their grand tour when they, too, are made miserable by the big three discomforts. The ...

Public trust begins with transparency

Generally, when good things are coming to a community, public officials and developers aren't shy about making announcements. Just weeks ago, a local developer announced plans to breathe new life into the former Wilson's Gift & Jewelry building downtown. As part of the project, the former Trolley Car building will come down. Not everyone was happy about that. But they also learned Square Cafe & Bakery would be expanding into the space. The developer explained the vision. Questions were answered. People knew what was coming. Walk into Square Cafe today and you'll hear customers ...

You don't need permission to care

Every community has a "somebody" problem. We've all heard these familiar lines or similar ones and perhaps have even spoken them. Somebody should clean up that park. Somebody should rehab that old building. Somebody should organize an event. Somebody should create a space for kids to gather. Somebody should help our senior citizens. Everyone agrees that something should be done. The problem is that everyone assumes somebody else will do it. Communities don't change because everyone identifies the problems. They change because individuals decide to become that "somebody." I learned ...