• Although the ground is covered with snow deeper than at any time during the winter, the spring migration of birds is at hand. During the present month, usually not far from the tenth to the twentieth, the first flocks of bluebirds, robins, song sparrows and others always begin to make their appearance in southern Maine, moving up gradually from the spaces where they have made their winter homes.

• Songs that have stood the test of time, that have been favorites for years, were heard last evening at the King’s Court which was held in Auburn Hall. The hall was crowded and the audience enjoyed one of the best musical treats which has been given for several seasons.

50 years ago, 1958

• With some 5 million Americans now out of work, concern over international problems has been supplanted in the public’s mind by a pressing domestic one – “solving unemployment.” For the first time since the job-lean years of the late 1930’s – when one-sixth of the total working force was unemployed – an Institute survey finds that the problem of finding jobs for those out of work is considered the Number One concern of the country today.

• Just five years ago today the rains began falling and the second worse flood in Twin City history began to materialize. Rain fell heavily and continuously for four consecutive days.

25 years ago, 1983

• That 11-year contract signed by New England electric companies with Hydro-Quebec of Canada is a progressive move for the six-state area’s economy. The compact will provide the region with lower-cost electricity through substitution of hydro power for oil-fired power. Once the approximate $325 million in construction has been completed, it is estimated consumption of oil in New England will be cut by more than $5 million barrels a year.

WASHINGTON – President Reagan said Wednesday night the United States will begin work on a futuristic defense system designed to destroy Soviet missiles in flight and render “these nuclear weapons impotent and obsolete.”