Good calls as usual, Wiscasset Area Chamber of Commerce, on this year's picks for your annual awards. I can't go downtown without running into Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission's Mary Ellen Barnes, newly named volunteer of the year.. She is always around, showing someone around or otherwise trying to help the town and region be their economic and cultural best.

Those two community traits go hand in hand, especially in a town this rich in culture. Barnes gets it and, fortunately for all, she has shown dedication in time and thought toward Wiscasset, the county and their futures.

Congratulations and thanks to all the winners. Find them on this week's front page and at wiscassetnewspaper.com

* * *

Last week here, I mentioned some of the business types on my wish list for Wiscasset. I just thought of another: Mini golf. It's so approachable and fun, for any age and ability level, like croquet. And like the full-size game, it can be as competitive as you like and, at its best, combines contest and socializing.

Just another way to think spring. Start practicing your swing, for when the weather is right again for either form of golf, or croquet, tennis, softball or baseball.

This week's positive thought: The Boston Red Sox began spring training this week! Could New England be marching toward another championship? It is doable.