Turning the corner
Hancock's local groundhogs in St. Thomas' Cemetery weren't sure what to make of the partly cloudy morning on Feb. 2.
This halfway day between the first day of winter and the first day of spring is a marker for folks who listen to the winds and pay attention to the way the light shines on the river.
Long before the groundhog became a mascot, this day was known as Candlemas - literally candle-mass. Old English rhymes noted that the weather seemed to turn a corner on the day when Christians celebrated new light, and candles were blessed in the churches.
The people of the countryside know that the animals and plants are beginning to rouse. New tracks appear in the snow and, in the shallow bed on the east side of my porch, the tips of daffodils are making a tenuous appearance under the bed of old fall leaves.
Pancake breakfast
Hancock American Legion will hold a pancake breakfast Saturday from 7 to 10 a.m. at the post at 240 E. Main St.
There is plenty of parking. The menu includes pancakes, sausage, sausage gravy, scrambled eggs, orange juice and coffee.
Tickets cost $6 for adults and $3 for those younger than 12. The public is invited.
Police chief goes extra mile
Kudos to Hancock Police Chief T.J. Buskirk for helping out in a tight economy.
T.J. took some time to get paint and revive some old tabletops in order to spruce up the town police department office. This great guy is such an asset to our town, and we appreciate his friendly and professional manner.
Restaurant holds food drive
Our local Hardee's restaurant is collecting nonperishable food items for the Interfaith Service Coalition Food Bank. For each item donated, your name will be entered into a drawing for a $25 Hardee's gift card.
The contest ends and the drawing takes place next Monday, Feb. 8. The restaurant is at 42 E. Main St.