There's a Spring in the steps of Dayton residents

I realize that according to the weather folks we're heading back into a brief winter stint, but as spring approaches, Dayton's waking up and getting busy.

As it comes, garage doors are being opened and people are venturing out to wave at their neighbors, recreating, conducting and visiting yard sales and are engaged in the annual ritual known as "cleaning up of the tumble weeds."

Ah, the events that mark the seasons.

Speaking of yard sales, the Dayton Democrats are taking donations large or small for their event, set for April 26. Shirley Lafreiniere has kindly volunteered to host the benefit sale at her home, so if you've been cleaning out your closet or garage and would like to give them your support, call Shirley at 246-4249.

The Dems have also booked the Makin' Coffee meeting room for the remainder of 2008. Beginning April 12, the meeting time will be 9:30-11:30 a.m.

But wait - there's more:

Children ages 7-14 are invited to swing into spring with a baseball and softball clinic Saturday, March 29, at Dayton High School. The day-long event will take place from 10-3 p.m. with an hour break.

DHS varsity softball and baseball coaches and players will be teaching participants the finer points of the sports through various stations. Participants will receive a T-shirt and "a lot of knowledge," according to Coach Dusti Houk.

Pre-registration takes place 10 a.m.-noon Saturday and March 22 at Smith's, or at 9 a.m. the day of the event. Cost is $20 per child or $35 for two in a family. For more information, call DIS at 246-6250 and ask for Coach Houk.

Healthy Communities Coalition 5K/10K Fun Run and Walk takes place April 5, at Dayton High School.

The fun is sponsored by the DHS and DIS student councils with support from the DIS National Junior Honors Society and the Builders' Club.

Childcare is available for potty-trained children, but parents are invited to walk or run with a stroller if need be.

Pre-registration forms are available at all five Dayton schools, at Eagle Fitness and Smith's customer service desk. Cost is $25 per person, with all proceeds going to support the work of Healthy Communities Coalition.

Raffle tickets for prizes will be available the day of the event.

For more information, call Rob turner at DHS, 246-6240 or Houk at DIS, 246-6250.

Also, Relay for Life planning began recently, so look for updates on local fundraising in the coming weeks.

Peace and happy spring.

• Karel C. Ancona-Henry is a Dayton resident and can be reached at 246-4000.