Congratulations to Stacy Morris, who was recently elected by the Hillsboro Firemen as their new Chief, and Jeremy Miller, who was elected as the new Assistant Fire Chief.

The Hillsboro Fire Department has always been fortunate to have quality members who are capable of assuming the reins of authority, and this year is no different.

Both of the new officers are veteran firefighters who have many years of experience on the department.
On a personal note, in addition to the new rank of Assistant Fire Chief, Jeremy also retains his Knowles family title of Son-In-Law. And that fact allows us to report the remarkable amount of time and work he has always devoted to the department. We’re very proud of him!

The residents of Hillsboro and the entire Fire Association are also very appreciative of outgoing Fire Chief Tom Sebranek and Assistant Fire Chief Tom Hotek for years of outstanding service to the community.

Congratulations are also in order for the Lady Tigers Basketball Team for winning the WIAA Regional Championship.

Good luck in Sectionals, girls. They will play next on Thursday night in Neillsville against Gilmanton.

            ***

Sincere weather watchers have been searching for centuries to find a never-fail indicator that Old Man Winter is ready to take a break and hopefully a long vacation.

There are all kinds of clues available, from the annual report of an over-rated and disoriented groundhog, to the depth of ice reported by frustrated and extremely cold fishermen.

This year, however, a new signal has been added to the local folklore, at least in Hillsboro.....the outdoor appearance of Tiger track and field athletes in the HHS parking lot after school.

Socks and I were enjoying our first long (and refreshingly warm) walk of the Winter on Monday afternoon when we heard unusual but very welcome noises coming from the school. On investigation, we discovered an entire track and field team running laps, and enjoying the warmth and sunshine.

Talk about a genuine and long awaited true sign of Spring!

Socks was so excited about seeing the students taking good advantage of the weather change, she wanted to join the group. But without her track gear on, I feared she might become overheated. Well, it’s the thought that counts!

Anyway, the sight made our day. Those young students did every bit as well as the TV forecasters in spreading the good news in Hillsboro.

            ***

Please remember to put outside by your door any non-perishable food you wish to donate to the Good Samaritan Food Pantry on Saturday morning.

The local Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts from Troop and Pack 83 will be “Scouting for Food” that morning.

I don’t have to tell you how important this year’s food drive is, with many local families needing assistance during these difficult times.

So, like the Scout pledge, please “Do a Good Turn.” Support the campaign, and your neighbors as much as possible.