Reminders of “back to school” and autumn bombard us, in stores and online, signaling the dog days of summer are ending. But don’t bury your head in the sand, take advantage of the interesting, informative, and entertaining programs at the Thompson Free Library.

Dover-Foxcroft Town Manager Jack Clukey thought it would be a good idea to get businesses more involved in the milestone anniversary as 95 years ago this summer the towns of Dover and Foxcroft became one.

The auction/open house at Central Hall is part of the Dover-Foxcroft Shiretown Homecoming on Aug. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Partners for Peace, the domestic violence resource center formerly known as Spruce Run-Womancare Alliance, will provide an art-based support group for anyone affected by domestic abuse or violence. The group will meet at the Partners for Peace Mechanic Street office starting on Tuesday, Aug. 1 from 1–3 p.m. for four consecutive weeks.

The third annual Kiwanis Cruise-In will take place on Saturday, Aug. 5 (rain date is Aug. 6) from 4:30 to 8 p.m. at the Ridge View Community School.

Thanks to the generosity of Hometown Health Centers, the Center Theatre is hosting Lyme disease specialist Dr. Bea Szantyr at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 25. Dr. Szantyr’s “Tick Talk” is an informative look at ticks, the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi which causes Lyme disease, the incidence of Lyme disease in Maine, the difficulties of medical diagnosis, and steps to take to protect oneself and family.

Summer calendar of events

Partners for Peace, the domestic violence resource center formerly known as the Spruce Run-Womancare Alliance, will host a 40-hour training session in Dover-Foxcroft for anyone interested in volunteering with the organization. The training will begin in August and take place over six to seven weeks.

A new documentary film by Maine filmmaker and musician Tonya Shevenell, “The Home Road,” will be screened at the Center Theatre at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 21. Shevenell and her father Ray will be in attendance for a post-screening discussion.

On Saturday, July 22 from 1 to 5 p.m. the Milo Historical Society will host its fourth annual art show at the Three Rivers Kiwanis Building, on Gerrish Road off outer Park Street. The art show serves as a fundraiser for the historical society, refreshments will be available, and the event showcases the creative spirit of community members.

Calendar of events for July and August

The town of Monson’s annual Summerfest will feature a day of events on Saturday, July 15 to celebrate the season.

The Dover-Foxcroft Kiwanis announces its annual auction will be July 27-30 with many old traditions along with new ideas and exciting events.

July and August calendar of events

Beat the heat, escape the rain, and keep your mind active at the Thompson Free Library. July is jam-packed with exciting activities for all ages.

The free summer meal program is up and running at the SeDoMoCha School for the fifth summer. It began the day after school got out and had its official kickoff on June 23.

The Center Theatre, Slightly Off-Center Players, and Center Coffee House will host a paint and sip event at the Center Theatre from 3 to 6 p.m., on Saturday, July 8. The event, which will raise money for live theatrical events at the Center Theatre, is for people of all ages and all abilities who want to gather together with an experienced painter, to practice and enhance their painting skills.

On Saturday, July 15 at 11 a.m. the Monson Historical Society is pleased to have as a guest speaker Craig Denekas, president and CEO of the Libra Foundation. The Libra Foundation has been investing heavily in Monson and Piscataquis County and Denekas will provide an update on the progress to date and future plans.