Around Hancock

December 24, 2009|By ANNE WEATHERHOLT / 301-678-6888

o Read more Anne Weatherholt columns at washingtoncountyliving.com

Chamber elects officers

Just in time for the holidays, the Hancock Chamber of Commerce has elected officers. Penny Pittman will once again be president, and Jackie Flowers will serve as vice president for the coming term.Â

The Chamber is sponsoring the "Support Your Local Business" contest, which lasts until Dec. 31.Â Pick up your game sheet and visit the businesses listed. More than half of the sheet needs to be checked off to be eligible. Local businesses have donated prizes, such as gift certificates, a free night's stay at the 1828 Train Inn, free haircut, free movie, gift bags and a free apple pie.Â

In addition, the Chamber is discussing the possibility of attracting the Maryland Renaissance Festival to our area. Festival officials have narrowed their search, but it is unclear whether they are considering Washington County. Finally, the Chamber members saw examples of new banners to be hung along the Rail Trail, including one featuring a photo from our local photo contest. Kudos to the Chamber and others for the improvements in the downtown area for the holidays.

Hancock folks help those stranded by stormÂ

Hancock showed its best face last weekend during the huge snow. A group of college students traveling from Michigan to their home in Annapolis was stranded. Our "Good Samaritan Fund" put them up for the night and provided food for their supper from the local Sheetz store. Our firefighters, police and rescue squad worked overtime responding to various calls in the cold weather, and the town crews plowed all night to keep the streets clear. Thanks, guys.

Christmas for OthersÂ

About 80 families, including 90 children, had a merrier Christmas this year due to donations from Christmas for Others.

Santa arrived just on time, and the children enjoyed a Christmas story from The Rev. Jack Lombardi, who hosted the party at St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church Parish Hall. Thanks to all who donated toys and food for the party.

Santa keeping busyÂ

Hancock's own "Santa" has been busy this past week. He visited with children at the Christmas for Others party and stopped by at the Head Start school in the Lower Parish Hall of St. Thomas' Episcopal Church last Friday morning. His appearances were canceled Sunday, due to snow, but he has been seen around town. ("B.B." is Hancock's own Santa, who feels a great calling and privilege to bring St. Nicholas to life.)

Arts CouncilÂ news

Coming in January, the Hancock Arts Council is calling all local talent to sign up for its annual talent show. The date is Saturday, Jan. 16, at 7 p.m. on the Community Center Arts Stage (come and see the newly restored wooden floor). Singers, jugglers, belly dancers, musicians, poets, comedians -- all are welcome. If you have a talent to share, contact Sinclair Hamilton at 301-678-5719.Â

Christmas EveÂ

And finally, as the quiet of Christmas Eve spreads over our region, take time to attend one of the many worship services offered this evening by the churches in and around Hancock.Â It will help you embrace the true meaning of this wondrous season. Call the church of your choice for worship times.Â And a Merry Christmas to all.Â

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