The public is invited to attend the 3rd annual Washington County Community College Art Show 2-6 p.m. Thursday, arch 9, in the Assembly Room at WCCC in Calais.

“This event showcases the artistic talents of WCCC students, staff, faculty and family members,” explained Melissa Mitchell, a TRIO Learning Specialist/Transfer Counselor at WCCC. TRIO is a federally funded Student Support Services Program.

“Many students wish to express their unique talents in a creative art format; others carry on artisan cottage industries while attending school; and still others are Native American students who practice traditional handcrafts such as beadwork and basket weaving.

“Whatever their motivation for creating art,” she continued, “the students at the college are highly creative and possess a great many talents.”

This free show, she concluded, “provides a means through which these gifts can be recognized by the community.”

Sponsored by TRIO and the WCCC Campus Women’s Association, the community-wide show offers a great variety of artwork and will include musical performances by members of the WCCC community.

Elizabeth Clayton, director of public relations for Eastern Maine Community College, reports the school hosting an art exhibit, “Monhegan Vistas,” now through Friday, April 28, on the Bangor campus.

“Plein Air Heads” is a group of local artists who travel to Monhegan Island each summer to paint.

The group’s mixed media exhibit is located on the second floor of the Campus Center in Katahdin Hall at EMCC.

The artists will offer brief presentations about their work during an Opening Reception 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, March 15, at the Campus Center.

For those wishing to view this exhibit, regular EMCC Library hours are 1-5 p.m. Sundays; 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; and 8 a.m-6 p.m. Fridays.

EMCC is on spring break April 3-7. Exhibit hours for that week are 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For more information, call Clayton at 974-4817.

Marlene Doucette reports it is time for the Orono Thrift Shop & Boutique annual End-of-Winter Sale.

The sale will be conducted between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Wednesdays, and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturdays beginning Wednesday, March 8, and continuing through Saturday, March 25, in the Senior Citizens Building off Pine Street in Orono.

You are invited to Fill a Bag for $1 in the Thrift Shop, and purchase items for half price in the Boutique.

The shop re-opens at 9 a.m. Wednesday, April 12.

Heidi Eagleton of Winter Harbor called to express her gratitude to everyone who assisted with, attended and contributed to the Benefit Donation Supper to help raise funds for her to purchase an assistance dog through PAWS With A Cause.

Eagleton has multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia, and the dog will help her with everyday tasks.

The benefit raised slightly more than $1,400 “and the checks are still coming in the mail,” she said.

She was pleased to report that “people came from as far away as Brewer, Steuben and Cherryfield,” and that donations were received from Millinocket to Camden.

And while Eagleton would like to be able to thank everyone in person, she is unable to do so, especially since some cash donations came in the mail without a return address.

Eagleton is most appreciative for your help, and thanks you all.

Have you ever fantasized about hitting a baseball in Boston’s famous Fenway Park?

You can, and you can help the Jimmy Fund at the same time.

“Step Up to the Plate for The Jimmy Fund John Hancock Fantasy Day at Fenway Park” takes place, during the day and at night, Sunday, June 4, in Beantown.

The rain date is Monday, June 5.

The sessions range in price and feature a variety of packages including a Batting Package, Fielding Package, Combo Package and Fan Package.

The all-inclusive Combo Package, with batting, fielding and other amenities, is $2,200 per player, or $11,000 for a team of five.

However, adults can enjoy a day at Fenway with the Fan Package for $100 or $50 for children 3-10.

The Fan Package offers the opportunity to watch Fantasy Day from the stands, have a tour of Fenway, a meal, and a personal photo souvenir.

Since this event fills up quickly, you should visit www.jimmyfund.org/fantasyday or Call Alicia Gallo, (617) 632-3611 to register as soon as possible.

Hosted by the Boston Red Sox and John Hancock Financial Services, proceeds benefit The Jimmy Fund.

Joni Averill, Bangor Daily News, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402; 990-8288.