In Maine, the idea of spring (flowers blooming, birds singing) often clashes with the reality of it (mud and snow). March marks a welcome, if slow, transformation. Let the lineup at the Thompson Free Library in Dover-Foxcroft wake you from your winter slumber with an interactive mix of learning and escapism.

The Highlands Classical Chamber Ensemble will appear in concert at the following locations: 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 10 at The Inn at Dirigo Pines in Orono; 7 p.m. on Friday, March 16 at the Dover-Foxcroft Congregational Church; and 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 18 at the Greenville Consolidated School (a reception will follow this program).

Thomas Watt, a member of Boy Scout Troop 120 in Greenville, was recognized by the Maine Legislature Feb. 27 for his achievement of attaining the rank of Eagle Scout.

The American Red Cross of Maine and Emera Maine are partnering with the Dover-Foxcroft Fire Department to make households safer by installing free smoke alarms and teaching families about home fire safety on Saturday, March 10.

Upcoming events around the region.

The Center Theatre is hosting three performances of one-act plays from area schools at 7 p.m. on Friday March 2 and at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, March 3.

January Students of the Month at Dexter Regional High School.

Dexter Regional High School recently held its annual Winter Carnival Week Feb. 12-16. The week concluded with a dance where the Winter Carnival court was crowned.

The Dover-Foxcroft Kiwanis made a special presentation to its Foxcroft Academy Key Club to assist with attendance at the Key Club District Convention in Springfield, Mass. in April.

The Valley Grange of Guilford is sponsoring a blanket-making event from 9 a.m. until noon on Saturday, March 3 and volunteers are needed. Organizer Pat Engstrom notes “no sewing skills are needed. If you can measure, cut a straight line with scissors and tie a simple knot you can become a ‘blanketeer’ and help support Project Linus.”

SeDoMoCha Middle School students enjoyed a morning of fun during a long-awaited Winter Carnival on Friday, Feb. 16 (the last day of school before vacation).

Ben Zabin, one of America’s top teen magicians, is coming to Dover-Foxcroft for a one-night show at the Center Theatre at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 16.

Upcoming events around the region.

The first female through-paddler of the 740-mile Northern Forest Canoe Trail (NFCT) will talk about her adventures in the Greenville Town Office Community Room (7 Minden Street) from 6–7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 28.

Eleanor Godreau, left of Dover-Foxcroft, recently posed for a photo featuring five generations of her family. Joining her were, from left, Anna Barton, Lisa Carr, Joshua Carr and Adalyn Carr. This is the second five-generation family group for Godreau.

But on Sunday, March 4, the parish community will gather together on the same patch of land on Pritham Avenue. This time, tears of sadness will be replaced with joy as parishioners walk into the new Holy Family Church for a 10 a.m. Mass of Dedication, celebrated by Bishop Robert P. Deeley. All are welcome to attend.

TEWHEY -- A daughter, Lainey Elizabeth Tewhey, to Sabrina Sharrow and Brian Tewhey on February 8, 2018. She joins older brother Nolan Tewhey.

Sen. Paul Davis, R-Sangerville was awarded the Distinguished Advocacy Award, a prestigious honor bestowed by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in recognition of his commitment to protect Mainers from the death and disease related to tobacco addiction, specifically, for sponsoring legislation which increased the minimum legal sales age of tobacco products in Maine to 21.