It seems like just a few days ago we were celebrating Labor Day and the end of summer, then passing out treats to little goblins. It is hard to believe that next week brings Thanksgiving Day.

We have much to be thankful for. As we give thanks, let us remember the friends who are alone this year. It would be nice to take the time to phone one of them to say hello, or stop by for a visit.

Hobart Food Pantry is aiding many more clients this year, so if you have a few extra food items, or extra Turkey Awards for WiseWay Foods, the pantry would be happy to receive them. Call Director Theresa Larimore at (219) 947-7779 or mail to Hobart Food Pantry, P.O. Box 394, Hobart, IN 46342.

Expo offers information

Hobart Chamber of Commerce's Business Expo at Avalon Manor offered an interesting and informative evening as almost 50 companies and groups displayed their wares.

The Patriots' Table manned by members of the Howlin Mad Marine Corps League, American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars passed out information about membership, meetings and programs. Our American Government, U.S. flag and Constitution of the United States booklets donated by U.S. Rep. Peter Visclosky (D-Merrillville) were distributed.

The 10th Street Barbershop even gave a few sample haircuts to willing young men (possibly future customers).

Join YMCA for free

Hobart Family YMCA is waiving its membership joining fee for the holiday season, and a membership would make a great gift for that special someone on your Christmas list. Call (219) 942-2183 for rates.

Lights show hope

St. Mary Medical Center is hosting its fourth Heart of Hope holiday tree program. Trees will be decorated with lights that represent contributions made in honor of someone who has filled hearts with love and joy. A light may be reserved in the name of a loved one for $5 each. Donations will fund heart research.

Heart of Hope tree lighting will take place at 6 p.m. Dec. 10 at the patient tower entrance of the medical center, 1500 S. Lake Park Ave.

Honoring the military

Fifth Annual Holiday of Honor appreciation celebration for military personnel and their families, presented by Caring about Military Personnel, will take place at 6 p.m. Dec. 21 at Avalon Manor, 3550 E. U.S. 30. Admission is $20 by ticket only.

C.A.M.P. has shipped packages to military personnel in combat each month since November, 2003 and is preparing now to send Christmas packages of board games, sports equipment and holiday decorations to thirty squads in combat.

To make a donation to this worthy cause or more information, contact Charlotte Hess at (219) 462-9109 or www.csampboxes.org

Bringing joy on Christmas

The City Wide Giving Tree ensures that Hobart children from needy families experience joy on Christmas morning. To donate to The Giving Tree, call Theresa Larimore at (219) 942-4850 or Karen Robbins at (219) 942-0175 or e-mail TriKappa.GivingTree@gmail.com Donations can also be sent to: PO Box 805, Hobart, IN 46342.

Contact June Kegebein with Hobart community or family events at (219) 942-4062 or juneNgerry@aol.com