Tamworth Column

I have been thinking recently about harbingers of spring. For me they have always been daffodils, snowdrops, and tulips poking bravely through the soil. This year, however, as the ground has not been visible for several months, I have been seeking other signs. I have heard bird song, particularly when the temperature rose above freezing on a couple of occasions. There is a chipmunk in our greenhouse. We named him Alvin and hope to keep the cats out. The Barnstormers announced its summer schedule last week. Of course the most notable and predictable harbingers occur next week: voting on Article 1, to elect all necessary town officers, at the Tamworth Town House March 11, commencing at 10 a.m., followed by town meeting at the K.A. Brett School on March 12 commencing at 7 p.m.The local grassroots organization Carroll County Peace Action held a Ski for Peace event in Wonalancet on Sunday on the Tamworth Outing Club trail . A diehard group of 45 people skied, ate, got soaked by a variety of precipitation, embellished quilt squares, listened to Cathy and Jim Shea's music, and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. I attended briefly and enjoyed the camaraderie, but found the fresh wet wintry mix incompatible with my no-wax skis. Hot and cold food was served under a tarp that started to sag with the weight of snow. Thanks to all who contributed to the success of this event, especially Jim Alt who pulled it all together, and Helen Steele for her hospitality.My husband Don and I attended Mardi Gras, hosted by St. Andrews Church on Shrove Tuesday. This was a wonderful affair with fluffy pancakes (plain and blueberry) "real" maple syrup and sausages, followed by an array of desserts that might have been entitled "Death by Chocolate." Those who wanted to get into the New Orleans spirit were offered a chance to make an ornate mask with feathers and beads. The results were spectacular. Thanks to all who contributed to make the evening a success. I recently mentioned that Kate Thompson was artist of the month (March) at the Cook Library. I urge anyone who loves the Barnstormers to visit this exhibit, which is wonderful collection of marquee posters spanning three decades. I especially liked the comments that Katy wrote about each poster. Some include amusing and revealing anecdotes about Francis Cleveland and life behind the scenes at the theater.I have received word from Recreation Director Parker Roberts that the annual trip to the Boston Flower show will take place on Thursday, March 20. The cost is $25 per person, which includes transportation and admission to the show. The bus leaves at 7:30 a.m. and returns at 7:30 p.m. If you would like to reserve a place, please leave a message at 323-7582.The Cook Memorial Library has many upcoming special events. Amy Carter designs beautiful bookmarks that serve as notices for these occasions, so drop by the library and pick some up. On Saturday, March 8, there will be a talk by herbalist Bruna Gushurst-Moore entitled "Women's Herbs, Women's Health," from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Tuesday, March 11, and Wednesday, March 26, Louise Wrobleski will present a two-part series of writing exercises for children ages 8-12 at 7 p.m. at the library. On Saturday, March 15, commencing at 2 p.m., Hector Diaz, a graphic artist, will show and talk about his "graphic novels." On Saturday, March 22, gardening guru Henry Homeyer will give a talk entitled "Organic Gardening Not Just for Vegetables.""Advice to the Players" will be presenting "A Midsummer Nights Dream" at the Barnstormers on March 14, 15, 21 and 22. Call 284 7048 for information. On Saturday, March 22, the Tamworth Outing Club will sponsor the Spring Fling Equinox contra dance at the Tamworth Town House, with Byron Ricker from 8 to 11 p.m.On Sunday, March 23, plan to attend the 11th annual Taste of the Bearcamp Valley Food Festival at the Whittier House. Proceeds will benefit the Bearcamp Valley School and Children's Center. Call 323-8300 for tickets and information. I will end on another harbinger note: Signups for the upcoming season of the Carroll County Cal Ripkin League for boys and girls ages 6 to 12 will be held on Sunday, March 8, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Brett school. The season for the Cal Ripkin League will begin the last week in April or the first week in May, depending on the weather. Check out its Web site, www.carrollcountycalrip.tripod.com. It includes a list of town reps, contact people and highlights from last year. This year's scores and standings will be posted as the season progresses. If you have items suitable for this column, call me at 323-7065, or e-mail me at dandamcg@aol.com.